Page Index:

• Overview
• Turning on Windows Update Notification
• What to Do When Updates Are Available
• How to Manually Update Your Computer

Overview:

Microsoft and other software vendors make available to users periodic updates for their software. In particular, updates for your operating system (e.g. Windows 2000/XP) are critically important. In most instances your machine can be setup to advise you when new updates are available. It is an excellent idea to check frequently for updates and it is especially beneficial to install Critical Updates and Service Packs to ensure the highest functionality of your software.

You can choose to have Windows notify you whenever it finds updates available for your computer; it will then download the updates in the background, allowing you to continue working uninterrupted. After downloading is complete, an icon appears in the status area with a message that the updates are ready to be installed. When you click the icon or message, you can install the new updates in a few simple steps.

If you choose not to install a specific update that has been downloaded, Windows deletes its files from your computer.

Notes:

• To modify Automatic Updates settings, you must be logged on as an administrator or a member of the Administrators group.
• Some upgrades require the original software media (CD/Diskettes) to complete the installation of upgrades. Be sure to have your original software available when doing upgrades.
• Windows might prompt you to restart your computer after certain components are installed. Please restart your computer when prompted; otherwise, your computer might not work properly.

Turning on Windows Update Notification:

1a.
	If you are using Windows 95, 98, NT or 2000 then go to Start --> Settings --> Control Panel.

1b.
	If you are using Windows XP, go to Start --> Control Panel. [ Click to zoom ]

2.
	On the Control Panel, click Automatic Updates.

3.
	On the Automatic Updates screen do the following: Check the selection box next to "Keep my computer up to date" Check "Download the updates automatically and notify me when they are ready to be installed." Click OK once the two steps have been completed.

What to Do When Updates Are Available:

1.
	When new updates for Windows are available, you will see the following icon in the lower right hand corner. Double click the icon.

2.
	Click the "Install" button to update your computer.

3.
	Wait as the updates are installed.

4.
	After the installation is complete, press OK. You may be asked to restart your computer.

How to Manually Update Your Computer:

1.
	Open your browser and go to http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/

2.
	If this is your first time using Windows Update, a window may appear asking to install software to perform the update. Click "Yes". After that screen, you will see the welcome page. Click "Scan for Updates". [ Click to zoom ]

3.
	After the scan finishes, click "Review and install updates." [ Click to zoom ]

4.
	A list of critical updates will automatically be selected for you. Click the "Install Now" button to begin the update. [ Click to zoom ]

5.
	As the updates are installed, a window will appear showing you its progress.

6.
	After the updates are installed, you should see the screen below. Restart your computer, and repeat the manual update again to make sure that there are no critical updates remaining. [ Click to zoom ]