Microsoft regularly releases updates to its software. They handle issues ranging from critical security issues or bug fixes to minor improvements. Generally, it is best to keep your PC up to date with security patches and critical updates. Visit WindowsUpdate.Microsoft.com or just update.microsoft.com to keep your PC upto date with the latest patches.
There are updates to cover the Windows operating system, Microsoft Office (if you have it), hardware drivers and any server software component that you may have (SQL Server, IIS etc).
Keeping your PC up to date with the patches and upgrades means that you are a little safer on the web, you computer's chances of crashing are lower and the overall performance can improve.
The website will detect the software you have on your PC and determine which components require updation. It will ask you which updates are to be installed on your PC, download them and install them one by one. You may have to reboot your PC after the installation.
Remember that for some updates, Microsoft will require you to run a Windows Genuine Advantage tool to "Validate your copy of Windows". Its purpose is to detect counterfiet or pirated operating systems. If you have a original copy of windows with your system, you need not worry about this. But if you do not have a proper licenced version, the WGA tool will detect it and nag you down to "Get Genuine" which is to buy original software. Another reason to go for genuine software :) with your new PC. For details, see this FAQ.
You can also check out non-microsoft offerings like http://windowsupdate.62nds.com/
No comments:
Post a Comment