macOS Sequoia (macOS 15) is causing issues with third-party security software from vendors like CrowdStrike and Microsoft, attributed to networking bugs. Users may face connectivity problems and unsupported software alerts, with Microsoft advising against upgrading. Apple has acknowledged the issues but has not provided a clear response. According to Microsoft, its issue is macOS’s Stealth Mode, which stops a machine from responding to ping requests or connection requests from closed TCP or UDP networks. Stealth Mode has to be disabled in Firewall settings to resolve the issue.
While I’m on Apple, Apple announced that its generative AI, Apple Intelligence, will support additional languages, including German, Italian, Korean, Portuguese, and Vietnamese, in 2025. The feature will first launch in American English with the iOS 18.1 update. However, it will not be available in the EU or China at launch due to regulatory issues, although discussions are ongoing to address these challenges.
On the Microsoft security side, Microsoft has announced the public preview of Hotpatching for Windows Server 2025, which allows security updates to be installed without requiring a reboot. This feature aims to reduce the number of mandatory reboots from 12 to quarterly, enhancing efficiency and security. Hotpatching is available through Azure Arc and will support both physical and virtual servers. However, updates outside the Hotpatch program will still require restarts. Prerequisites for using Hotpatching include Windows Server 2025 Datacenter evaluation and certain security updates installed.
Microsoft has officially deprecated Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), ceasing new feature development while maintaining current functionality and updates. WSUS, introduced in 2005, allows IT administrators to manage updates across large networks. Microsoft encourages businesses to transition to cloud-based solutions like Windows Autopatch and Microsoft Intune for update management. The change primarily affects enterprise environments and does not impact home users.
And if you’re not aware, Windows Autopatch is a cloud service that automates updates for Windows, Microsoft 365 Apps, Microsoft Edge, and Microsoft Teams, enhancing security and productivity. It addresses challenges by closing security and productivity gaps, optimizing IT resources, minimizing on-premises infrastructure, and reducing end-user disruptions through careful rollout sequences. The service is available for devices registered under Business Premium and A3+ licenses.
Bringing it all together, Microsoft’s new Windows App is now available on Windows, macOS, iOS, and the web, with a public preview on Android and ChromeOS. It serves as a unified hub for managing Windows services like Windows 365 Cloud PCs and supports multiple monitors and account-switching features. The app will replace the existing Windows 365 and remote desktop apps, providing enhanced security and management for IT admins and customizable experiences for end users.
Well, I felt that Apple bug, so I know I care. That said, I’m noting the trend towards mobile-style patch management and an embrace of auto upgrades. Hotpatching, Autopatch, or the bundling of patching like mobile updates, all driving to a much more automatic process. Combine that with the shift away from WSUS represents a broader industry trend towards cloud-based management, which can streamline update processes and enhance security posture.