Automatic Updates

Updates can include anything from individual system and security updates to a complete service pack. Updates do such thinds as add safeguards against viruses or patch security holes in Windows that a hacker could exploit to gain control of your system. The recommended setting for updates is “Download updates for me, but let me choose when to install them.”  However, if you are on a slow modem, this could tie up your computer for several hours.  In this case, “Notify me but don’t automatically download or install them.”

To access the Automatic Updates settings in XP:

Start, Control Panel, Security Center

Under “Manage Security Settings”, click Automatic Updates

You can also access updates and downloads from the following sites:

http://update.microsoft.com  It is good practice to visit the Windows Update site occasionally to search for updates that aren’t included in the Automatic Update service, such as drivers and add-ons.

The updates are also available at Microsoft’s download site, http://www.microsoft.com/download.