How to Check for and Install Windows Updates
Overview:
Checking for, and installing, Windows updates, like service packs and other patches and major updates, is a necessary part of running any Windows operating system.
Windows updates can support your Windows installation in many ways. Windows updates can solve specific problems with Windows, provide protection from malicious attacks, or even add new features to the operating system.
Windows updates are most easily installed using the Windows Update service.
The Windows Update service has changed over the years as Microsoft released new versions of Windows. While Windows updates used to be installed by visiting the Windows Update website, newer versions of Windows include a special built-in Windows Update feature with more options.
Below is the best way to check for, and install, Windows updates based on your version of Windows.
In Windows 10, Windows Update is found within Settings.
First, tap or click on the Start menu, followed by Settings. Once there, choose Update & security, followed by Windows Update on the left.
Check for new Windows 10 updates by tapping or clicking on the Check for updates button.
In Windows 10, downloading and installing updates is automatic and will happen immediately after checking or, with some updates, at a time when you're not using your computer.
Windows 8 and 7 Instructions:
In Windows 8 and Windows 7, the best way to access Windows Update is via the Control Panel.
In these versions of Windows, Windows Update is included as an applet in Control Panel, complete with configuration options, update history, and lots more.
Just open Control Panel and then choose Windows Update.
Tap or click Check for updates to check for new, uninstalled updates. Installation sometimes happens automatically or may need to be done by you via the Install updates button, depending on what version of Windows you're using and how you have Windows Update configured.
Make sure your system is plugged into power adapter anytime you are performing updates.
Do NOT power system off while updates are installing.
Be patient. There are times when updates are large and major updates will take some time. Stopping updates while they are in process will cause OS issues and can make your OS unusable, and in some cases causing data loss.