University of
ConnecticutWindows Update and Automatic Updates
Posted May 11, 2004
Windows Update is an integral part of keeping your operating system updated and patched for the latest security vulnerabilities. It's a web site that you can visit which will tell you which updates are available for your environment. You should always install all 'Critical Updates and Service Packs'. Some updates must be installed exclusive from other updates, - you may have to reboot your computer and repeat this procedure again to install all the critical updates. Your system has all the critical updates installed once you have rebooted and visited the windows update site and there are no more critical updates or service packs to install.
Automatic Updates is a feature that is provided in Windows 2000 SP3+ and Windows XP. If you are running Windows 2000 gold, SP1, or SP2 you should upgrade to the latest service pack to provide Automatic Update functionality. Automatic Updates can be configured to automatically download and install updates on a schedule you choose. We recommend that users set this feature up and choose a daily time to download and install updates.
If you would like help learning how to run Windows
Update or configure Automatic Updates, visit the
following Microsoft security site and choose your
operating system to start the instructions. You will
find illustrated guides to help you through the
process.
- Microsoft Protect Your PC Web
site
Our old Windows Update and Automatic Update guide is provided for additional reference if needed.