14 DAY TRIAL // With Windows 10, Microsoft implemented a brand new update system that allows users to receive improvements for the Technical Preview based on their settings, so those who want to get new features as soon as they're ready can just switch to the “Fast” channel.
Needless to say, registering for the fast update cycle is a bit risky because many of the features released as part of this channel also come with bugs and other issues, so it's mostly aimed at experienced users and those who want to help Microsoft diagnose bugs and fix them in time for the public release.
As a result, the slow channel is a much better option for those who don't want to waste too much time with bugs, and according to Microsoft, that's exactly what's happening right now because most users go for this channel.
Microsoft's Gabriel Aul said in a tweet that “fast ring is about 10 percent the size of slow ring and this is exactly what we hoped to see.”
Internal update recommended over standalone ISOs
Aul also explained in an update to the original Windows 10 build 9879 release post that users should better stick to the internal update mechanism because the company would thus be able to test more features and make sure that everything would work smoothly when the final build comes out.
“Getting the update & install data from our Preview Builds mechanism is super important for us. It helps us ensure smooth ESD distribution, download, and upgrade success for this program going forward, and also will help us ensure great upgrades for people once we release Windows 10,” he posted.
The Windows 10 build 9879 ISOs are also available for download for those who want to perform a clean install, but remember that the built-in update system is a lot more effective because you don't lose any file or settings.
Next update coming in 2015
December won't bring any other updates for Windows 10 Technical Preview, as Microsoft said that the next pack of improvements would come in early 2015.
Aul said in his post that the first months of 2015 would come with more improvements for Windows 10 users, suggesting that recent rumors pointing to a possible kernel version update might indeed be possible.
Of course, it's too early to discuss about such rumors right now, but it's very clear that the next Windows 10 update is likely to bring quite a lot of improvements to Windows Insider Program members.
@ZacB_ Fast ring is about 10% the size of Slow ring. This is exactly what we hoped to see.
— Gabriel Aul (@GabeAul) November 24, 2014
