See Also
Topic Last Modified: 2010-07-18
In Microsoft Communications Server 2010, IP phones and their updates are managed through the Device Update service.The Device Update service is an automated way to update all IP phones that are deployed as unified communications (UC) devices deployed in an enterprise. Although the Device Update service is automatically installed with the Web Services role, the administrator or IT Pro still needs to perform a number of steps to complete successful deployment. The steps include creating a file system location for update files, configuring DNS records, and configuring proxy settings for external access. For details, see Planning to Deploy Devices.
Usage Scenarios
Use the Device Update service in the following management scenarios:
Testing and deploying updates. Retrieve updates from Microsoft and upload them to Device Update service. Test, and then approve or reject, specific updates for deployment to your organization’s IP phones to make sure that all updates are valid and functional, instead of having to troubleshoot after deployment.
Rolling back an update. Roll back a defective update and retain a tested prior update as the latest update. The next time an IP phone polls the Device Update service for an update, it is sent a URL to a prior (rolled back) version of the upgrade. The phone now automatically installs this update and effectively removes the defective update.
Introducing new device models. Make available all software updates relevant to a new model of an IP phone that is being introduced to the market.
Inventory management for devices in organizations. Use the log files and audit information stored in the Device Updates folder to view the IP phones in your organization and information about them, such as the current firmware version.