18.9.103.1.1 Ensure 'Manage preview builds' is set to 'Enabled: Disable preview builds' - Disable preview builds

Information

This policy setting determines whether users can access the Windows Insider Program controls in Settings -> Update and Security. These controls enable users to make their devices available for downloading and installing preview (beta) builds of Windows software.

The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled: Disable preview builds.




Rationale:

It can be risky for experimental features to be allowed in an enterprise managed environment because this can introduce bugs and security holes into systems, making it easier for an attacker to gain access. It is generally preferred to only use production-ready builds.

Impact:

Preview builds are prevented from installing on the device.

Solution

To establish the recommended configuration via GP, set the following UI path to Enabled: Disable preview builds:

Computer Configuration\Policies\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Windows Update\Windows Update for Business\Manage preview builds

Note: This Group Policy path may not exist by default. It is provided by the Group Policy template WindowsUpdate.admx/adml that is included with the Microsoft Windows 10 Release 1709 Administrative Templates (or newer).

Default Value:

Disabled. (Preview builds are not installed on the device, unless the user opts-in through Settings -> Update and Security)

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/files/3476