Let’s get basic. What are Windows updates? They are security patches and bug fixes issued by Microsoft to correct holes in security that could allow hackers to damage your PC or steal your information and to correct issues with programs. Also, sometimes updates bring changes to programs like Internet Explorer or Paint or add new features to the system.

Here’s how to check for updates in Windows 7. Type Windows Update in your search box in the start menu.  Click on the result.

If there are updates ready to install for your PC, you’ll receive a notice. You’ll also see when the most recent check for updates happened and when the last updates were installed. These updates are provided by Microsoft free of charge for supported Windows operating systems. Microsoft provides this type of support for at least ten years from the time an operating system is released.

You might see a screen like this that says no important or critical updates are available, but that there are some optional updates available.

You’ll get a list of updates and be able to see when they were installed and if the attempt at installation was successful.

If you want to make sure that Windows updates install automatically (which I suggest), click Change settings to the left of Windows Update.

Click the drop-down arrow under Important Updates to choose to have updates installed automatically. You can also set it to ask your permission before installing.

You can also select a preferred time for installation and whether or not to automatically install recommended updates and other types of software updates like mouse drivers.

Make sure to hit the OK button to save the changes.

Click here to look at updates for Windows 10.

~Cyn
Courtesy of Cyn’s Tech Tips