The baramundi Microsoft Update Management (bMUM) helps you to manage all Microsoft updates and distribute them to your end devices.
bMUM is based on the so-called ring concept from Microsoft. Each ring comprises a certain number of devices that receive an update at the same time. The devices contained in the rings should be as broad and representative a cross-section of the company as possible - categorized according to criticality. Typical rings could be, for example:
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Preview - preview and initial tests
The preview ring is not intended for broad use in the company and is used to evaluate new features of an update. This ring primarily contains the devices of tech-savvy individuals, as well as the classic test devices. This ensures that productivity is maintained even in the event of unforeseen events.
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Early adopters - pilots and review
The composition of this ring requires good planning. It should be made up of representative devices from the company. This means that all hardware and all applications should be represented here. Of course, these devices should also be used regularly in order to quickly identify any problems. The IT department and test devices in particular do not belong in this ring, as they usually do not represent the broad mass of company devices.
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Broad - broad distribution in the company
This ring contains all remaining devices that are not found in the previously named rings.
These three rings allow for a very timely distribution. Experience has shown that three rings are not sufficient in practice to map more complex structures. Therefore, the number of rings is not limited by Microsoft to allow further subdivision into locations or functions (client/server). In large companies, it is also advisable to take the capacity of the helpdesk into account when determining the size of the rings. The configured rings can be supplied with updates one after the other, but also overlapping. It makes sense to use the automation of the baramundi Management Suite so that manual intervention is only required in the event of an error. This means that the devices within the rings are automatically updated with a time delay defined by the admins.