July brought a substantial Patch Tuesday release from Microsoft, featuring 133 patches across Windows, Microsoft Office, and SQL Server. This extensive update includes a critical zero-day vulnerability in SQL Server (CVE-2025-49719) that demands immediate attention. To help IT admins tackle these changes, Readiness offers an infographic outlining the risks associated with deploying these updates to various platforms.
Microsoft’s recent updates come with relatively few reported known issues, such as Noto fonts display problems at lower resolutions. Despite no major revisions or enforcement updates this month, Windows 10 users are reminded of the impending end of free support after October 14, 2025, encouraging a transition to Windows 11.
The latest release focuses on core Windows components like printing, networking, and media playback. Components like the Printing Subsystem and Routing and Remote Access (RRAS) are highlighted as high-risk areas needing prompt attention. Testing recommendations are provided to facilitate enterprise validation efforts across different Windows features.
Updates to core OS, printing, remote desktop, network connectivity, filesystem, storage, media codecs, application deployment, and SQL Server necessitate thorough testing to ensure smooth operations. Notably, Microsoft issued critical patches for Windows, Microsoft Office, SQL Server, and developer tools like .NET and Visual Studio, addressing various vulnerabilities that could compromise system security.
In conclusion, IT professionals are advised to prioritize patching activities for Windows, Microsoft Office, SQL Server, and developer tools due to the critical nature of the vulnerabilities addressed in the July release. By implementing a proactive Patch Now plan and conducting comprehensive testing, organizations can safeguard their systems against potential cyber threats and ensure smooth operations in the ever-evolving IT landscape.