Using VUM for Windows Updates

[KevinRAECC]

We have a request to setup a new Windows machine without network connectivity.  But they also want to be able to patch the system if needed.

I thought that there was a way to use VMWare Update Manager to push Microsoft Windows Update.  However, I am unable to add the Microsoft repository to VUM, nor can I create a custom baseline for anything other than Appliances.

Can VUM be used to patch a windows guest?

[daphnissov]

No, that's not going to work at all. It's called VMware Update Manager for a reason.

[KevinRAECC]

I understand this it is VMWare Update Manager.  

But it is can be used to update hardware from other vendors.  (Yes I admit that it is mainly drivers for ESXi hosts.)  But sometimes software can be used for alternate purposes.  I was just asking about that in this case.

[a_p_]

In the beginning Update Manager indeed had an option to deploy Windows patches, but VMware removed this option years ago, because this became complicated and WSUS/Windows Updates were available anyway.

WSUS may be an option for you since it requires only network access to the WSUS server, i.e. no Internet access, so that a firewall could restrict network access to only what's needed.

André

[KevinRAECC]

That is what I thought.  I was hoping that i just missed it some how.

[KevinRAECC]

After letting the user know their options, they are allowing me to connect the computer once to get updates.  After that, they feel that with no network adapter, with the additional precaution of disabling any ability to connect outside devices, that it will remain static.

It is what the user decided, I do not have to agree with it.

Thanks for helping

[daphnissov]

Yes, as stated, it will not work for what you're thinking.