Keep Your Windows computer Updated!!

If you’re moving on from windows XP to Windows 7, then you probably know that keeping the OS and other software updated is very important for improving overall performance. Computer updates also enable’s computer security and protection to the maximum level. Today’s article would be on computer software updates. From my point of view windows computer updates can be of three types:

windows updates

Ø Windows Update: The Windows Update feature has come across a long way since the days of XP and is much improved in Vista and Windows 7. To access Windows updates; type Windows Update into the search box in the Start menu. With Windows Update it’s easier to install, review, manage, and check new updates of windows. It also shows updates for MS Office products without requirement of checking them individually. It’s great as it gives detailed info and generalized description about all the updates. And, if you aren’t sure about an update or want to know and find out more information, click the link in the right column. It will take you to the Microsoft site where you can read about: what you’re installing? Installing some updates will require you agree with the term and conditions of Microsoft.  Some updates will require your system to reboot, but you’ll also have an option to postpone the restart for a few hours or until next time you start your computer. It also allows changing the settings like: how to enable windows update or how to disable them? Important updates should be enabled by default on a pre-installed system.  To stop unwanted updates, highlight them, right-click and select Hide updates. If you want to install them later on you can always restore them.

Ø Update Third Party Apps: To keep Windows updated is very important, but it’s not the end. One should also make sure that your computer applications are updated as well. It’ not just for stability or new features. Security threats can come from common third party applications like Adobe, Flash player, and Java etc. You can certainly go through each app individually and check for updates. You can also run it in the background for continuous monitoring for updates. It won’t actually update problems for you, but it gives a detailed report and points you to where updates can be found.

Ø Hardware Driver Updates: One should always keep drivers up to date because it is important for system stability and performance. With newer hardware I have noticed Windows Update will sometimes include new driver versions. You can check out your computer manufacturer’s website to check for new updates for your hardware. Some computer manufacturers include a utility to check for your system updates that you can run from time to time.

Ø Other Update Tips: If you have got any Apple apps on your system such as iTunes, it includes its own software update utility. You might want and have a need to monitor these updates because they tend to add bunches of unwanted applications during an update on your computer.

 By keeping Windows, drivers, and other software updated you will keep your system secure and running smooth.