Update Windows

Printable Version

The instructions below can be used for home computers.

NOTE:  A&F division computers will have Windows updates automatically installed by the system's administrator. Updates will occur after 5 p.m. Employees should power off (shutdown) computers when not at work to save energy, unless they will be using Remote Access. Computers will be automatically powered up when updates are installed. 

Windows Update is the online extension of Windows that helps keep your computer up-to-date. Use Windows Update to choose updates for your computer’s operating system, software, and hardware. New content is added to the online site regularly, so you can always get the most recent updates and fixes to protect your computer and keep it running smoothly.

How do I know if I need an update?

Windows Update scans your computer and provides you with a tailored selection of updates that apply only to the items on your computer. During the scan, a list of categories appears under Welcome to Windows Update and the number of updates that are available in each category is noted in parentheses.

Critical Updates are important!

Any update that is critical to the operation of your computer is considered a "Critical Update," and is automatically selected for installation during the scan for available updates. These updates are provided to help resolve known issues, and to protect your computer from known security vulnerabilities. Whether a critical update applies to your operating system, software programs, or hardware, it is listed in the "Critical Updates" category.

How does it all work?

To install the update patches manually:

1. Close all files and programs.
2. Go to the Microsoft Update web site:
1. Windows XP and 2000 Operating Systems: Click on the "Start" button and select "Windows Update" (this will take you to Microsoft's update web site).
2. Windows 95, 98, and NT Operating Systems: Start Internet Explorer and go to the Microsoft Windows Update web site by typing: windowsupdate.microsoft.com.
3. Click on "Scan for Updates".
1. If there are not any critical updates to install, you can exit Internet Explorer.
2. If there are critical updates to install, then click on "Review and Install Updates".  Select "Install Now".  If you are asked if you want to archive files, select "no". The update program will inform you when it is finished and tell you that you need to reboot for the changes to take affect.

Contact Technical Systems and Services at 3-2461 with questions.