KB5073699: Overview with user sentiment and feedback
Last Updated February 28, 2026
Probability of successful installation and continued operation of the machine
Overview
This update is a security-only update for Windows Server 2008 R2. It introduces changes to Windows Deployment Services (WDS) and removes certain modem drivers. The update resolves various security vulnerabilities, but there are no known issues with this specific update.
General Purpose
The key changes introduced by this security-only update for Windows Server 2008 R2 are:- WDS will stop supporting hands-free deployment functionality by default. Administrators should review the guidance and follow the instructions provided in the Windows Deployment Services (WDS) Hands-Free Deployment Hardening Guidance.- The update removes the following modem drivers: agrsm64.sys (x64), agrsm.sys (x86), smserl64.sys (x64) and smserial.sys (x86). Modem hardware dependent on these specific drivers will no longer work in Windows.This update also resolves various security vulnerabilities. For more information about the resolved security issues, please refer to the Deployments | Security Update Guide and the January 2026 Security Updates.
General Sentiment
Based on the information provided, this security-only update for Windows Server 2008 R2 appears to be a relatively straightforward update that primarily addresses security vulnerabilities. The changes to WDS and the removal of certain modem drivers may impact some users, but there are no known major issues with this update.The update is recommended to improve the security posture of Windows Server 2008 R2 systems, but users should be aware of the potential impact on WDS and modem functionality. It's important to review the guidance and prepare accordingly before installing this update.
Known Issues
- WDS will stop supporting hands-free deployment functionality by default. Administrators should review the guidance and follow the instructions provided in the Windows Deployment Services (WDS) Hands-Free Deployment Hardening Guidance.- The update removes the following modem drivers: agrsm64.sys (x64), agrsm.sys (x86), smserl64.sys (x64) and smserial.sys (x86). Modem hardware dependent on these specific drivers will no longer work in Windows.
Disclaimer: We take measures to ensure that AI-generated content is of the highest possible quality, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy and recommend that users do their own independent research. Generated on 2026-02-28 01:20 AM
