What are Windows Updates?

Many people assume that just because they have a brand-new computer, they don't need updates. But that's not correct. It's almost certain that since the day your computer was built and the operating system was installed, there have been critical updates issued for it.

Windows Updates is a service that Microsoft provides to help users keep their Windows operating systems up-to-date. The types updates available fall into four groups:

• Critical updates, which usually are security-related or contain major bug fixes.

• Windows version updates, which usually include new or additional features, bug fixes of a minor nature or which do not affect all users, foreign language support, etc.

• Driver updates, which are newer versions of software that controls your hardware devices.

• Service Packs, which basically are big bunches of updates that are so extensive that they come just short of being a new version of Windows.

As a rule, you should always install all critical updates. Many of them are security related, and neglecting them may expose your computer to attack by worms, viruses, or hackers.

Windows Version Updates need only be installed if you need or desire a feature that they contain.

Driver updates should be downloaded if you are having a problem with that device or desire whatever additional functionality (if any) the newer driver offers. Otherwise, most professionals say,"If the device works, leave it alone."

Whenever installing any updates, it's a good idea to jot down the update's identification number, just in case you need to uninstall it later. On Windows Me and XP machines, it's also a good idea to create a System Restore point immediately before downloading the update.

To visit the Windows Update site, click the start button and look for the icon for Windows Updates. It may be pinned to the Start Menu, or it may be in Programs (or All Programs, on XP machines). If you can't find it, just click here.

Windows XP machines have a nice feature that allows critical updates to be "drizzled" to your machine automatically whenever you are connected to the Internet. To activate this feature, right-click "My Computer," then left-click "Properties." From the dialogue box that opens up, select the "Automatic Updates" tab, then check the box at the top that begins with "Keep my computer up to date..." and the second radio button o enable automatic updates, and the second radio button that begins with "Download the updates automatically...."

Then whenever Windows has downloaded updates, a little balloon and a globe will appear by the clock telling you that they are ready to install. Just click the balloon or the globe to install them.