Microsoft Update
Microsoft Update is a free online service provided by Microsoft Corporation that keeps your Microsoft software and Windows operating system up-to-date. Microsoft Update scans your computer and provides a list of updates which you can download and install. It is recommended that you always install high priority updates. To automatically do this for you, check out our tutorial on Automatic Updates. For more information on Microsoft Update, visit Use Microsoft Update to help keep your computer current. It's easy to get started! Simply follow the steps below.
What is the difference between Windows Update and Microsoft Update?
Windows Update provides updates for your Windows operating system only whereas Microsoft Update provides updates for Windows, Office, and any other Microsoft programs you have installed. Therefore, it is recommended that you upgrade to Microsoft Update as soon as possible.
Note: Click on each screen shot to view a larger, detailed image.
1. Connect to the Internet (or launch your browser if you have a cable Internet connection.) Point your Internet Explorer browser to http://update.microsoft.com/microsoftupdate or click on "Windows Update" in your Start menu (see below.)
2. Your browser will direct to Windows Update, telling you to "Get Microsoft Update today!" Click on the green go button to install Microsoft Update. When you reach the Microsoft Update homepage, click "Start Now."
3. Once Microsoft Update is installed, you will be able to download updates for your computer. Microsoft gives you two options to do that: Express, which downloads critical updates, and Custom, which lets you select optional updates for Windows. For our purposes, click on Express, which is recommended by Microsoft. Update will then scan you computer to find necessary patches and updates. This may take a few minutes depending on your computer's configuration and how often you have used Windows Update.
4. When finished you will notice a results page in which you can review updates. Select the ones you want to install. If no High-priority updates are found (shown below), you do not need to do anything. Simply exit your browser.
5. If your Microsoft Update found High-priority updates, they will automatically be selected for you. Click "Install Updates."
6. A new window will pop-up to download and install your patches. This may take a few minutes. You may need to restart your computer after your updates have been installed. Follow the onscreen directions.
