Capability
Patch management for mixed fleets with planned deployment and clear reporting.
FileWave helps teams sync, review, test, approve, deploy, schedule, and report on operating system and software updates so patching becomes managed work instead of scattered emergency response.
Operational value
Plan updates, reduce disruption, and prove patch status.
Start with the updates devices need
In FileWave 16.0 and later, managed Windows devices report the updates they need instead of relying on an offline catalog. Review applicable Windows and Apple OS updates, test them with a small pilot group, and check the results before a broader rollout.
Use staged deployment instead of blind rollout
Administrators can organize update Filesets by platform or testing stage, assign them to Smart Groups, and use manual or automatic deployment patterns depending on operational risk.
Protect users from avoidable disruption
Some Windows driver updates require a reboot. Publishing those updates through Self-Service Kiosk lets users choose when to install them, reducing the risk of an unexpected restart during active work.
What FileWave helps with
Patch workflows FileWave helps manage.
Verify Windows update results
Check missing, requested, and installed updates separately. Windows devices report update data hourly, so an assignment alone is not proof of installation. The Windows update reporting guide shows where to check results in FileWave Central and FileWave Anywhere.
Eligibility and applicability
Use FileWave logic and Smart Groups to avoid assigning updates to devices that should not receive them.
Scheduling and deadlines
Plan manual or scheduled deployments when timing and reboot behavior matter.
Compliance evidence
Use reporting and inventory to answer what is patched, what is pending, and what needs follow-up.
Common questions
Common questions about patch management.
What patching workflows does FileWave support?
FileWave supports syncing updates, creating update Filesets, testing, approving, assigning through Smart Groups, scheduling, deploying, and reporting on update status.
Does FileWave patch every platform the same way?
No. Patching differs by platform. FileWave helps centralize the operational workflow while respecting Microsoft, Apple, and platform-specific update behavior.
Why mention Self-Service Kiosk on a patch page?
Some updates, such as driver updates, may be better presented through Kiosk to avoid unexpected reboots and user disruption.
Related FileWave capabilities
Related patch and endpoint capabilities.
Want to test this with your own fleet?
Use the trial form to tell us what you manage today and which workflows you want to prove first.