Overview

• Microsoft has kicked off the first phase of its driver cleanup by expiring legacy drivers that have newer replacements available in the Windows Update catalog.
• Removed drivers are delisted by erasing their audience assignments in the Hardware Development Center so they no longer install on any Windows system.
• Hardware partners may apply for reinstatement of expired drivers within a six-month window if they can provide a valid business justification.
• This cleanup routine will become a regular practice alongside updated driver publishing guidelines to uphold Windows security and system reliability.
• The initiative follows recent enhancements including pre-production driver signing updates and strengthened security defaults for Windows 365 Cloud PCs.