How to Update Your Operating System-Automatically or Manually

Updating your computer automatically

If you're using a version of Windows that supports automatic updating, you should turn on that feature so you don't have to remember to check for critical updates that help keep your computer secure. If you are running Windows Vista or Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2), the automatic updating feature is probably already turned on. You can check just by visiting the Windows Update Web site. Microsoft Update provides updates to Windows as well as to other Microsoft products like Office, Internet Explorer, and more. In Windows Vista or Windows XP SP2, make sure the checkbox Use Microsoft Update is selected in your update options.

For specific instructions, see the Microsoft.com article, Use updating services from Microsoft to keep your computer current.

Note: Microsoft no longer supports Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows NT, or Windows Me.

Windows Vista

In Windows Vista, use the following steps to set your computer to automatically download and install updates:

  1. Open Windows Update by clicking the Start button. Click All Programs, and then click Windows Update.
  2. In the left pane, click Change settings.
  3. Choose the option that you want.
  4. Under Recommended updates, select the Include recommended updates when downloading, installing, or notifying me about updates check box, and then click OK. If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
  5. Make sure Use Microsoft Update is selected so you receive updates for other Microsoft products you have on your computer.
Microsoft Update
Windows XP

If you are using Windows XP, use the following steps to manage Automatic Updates:

  1. Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Automatic Updates.
  2. Select Automatic (recommended) and click OK.
Automatic Updates XP
Updating your computer manually

If you don't choose to update automatically, or if your system doesn't allow it, you can manually download and install updates. If you choose to update manually, schedule a regular time to do so.

The Microsoft Update Web site provides all Windows updates as well as updates for Microsoft Office and other Microsoft programs. Automatic Updates is supported, so you can choose to install high-priority updates automatically. Check Microsoft Update periodically, and use the easy-to-follow steps to help keep your computer current-and safe.

For Windows Vista and Windows XP
  1. When you are connected to the Internet, open a Web browser and go to the Microsoft Update Web site at http://update.microsoft.com.
  2. You can use the Web site to download both critical security updates and optional updates. If you're in a hurry, click Express Install (Recommended). If you want to review all the available updates, click Custom Install.
  3. Microsoft Update will scan your computer and display a list of recommended updates for Windows, Internet Explorer, and other Microsoft programs you have installed. Microsoft does not collect any information that could be used to identify you during this process.
  4. Browse the list of updates and select the checkbox next to each update you want to install. If you've chosen Custom Install, you should always include all critical updates. For a full description of any item, click Read more.
  5. When you have chosen all the updates to install, click Go to install updates, and then click Install.
  6. Microsoft Update will notify you when the updates are finished installing. If you need to restart your computer, Microsoft update will inform you.