How to install and manage software updates

Keeping your software updated is crucial for security, performance, and access to new features. Here’s how to install and manage software updates on Windows:

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1. Updating Windows Itself

Windows updates include security patches, driver updates, and feature enhancements.

Automatic Windows Updates (Recommended)

1. Open Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates to see available updates.
3. If updates are available, click Download and install.
4. Restart your computer if required.

Managing Windows Updates

• Click Advanced options in Windows Update settings to:
  • Pause updates for up to 35 days.
  • Choose when updates are installed.
  • Set active hours to prevent automatic restarts during work hours.

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2. Updating Microsoft Store Apps

Apps installed via the Microsoft Store update automatically, but you can manually check for updates.

1. Open Microsoft Store.
2. Click on your profile icon → App settings.
3. Ensure App updates is set to On.
4. Click Library → Get updates to check for updates manually.

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3. Updating Third-Party Software (Non-Microsoft Apps)

Software installed from external sources (like Chrome, Adobe, Zoom) must be updated separately.

Manual Updates

1. Open the application.
2. Go to Help or Settings (varies by app).
3. Look for an option like Check for updates or Update now.

Using a Software Updater

• Tools like Patch My PC, SUMo, IObit Software Updater, or Ninite can scan and update multiple programs at once.
• Download and install one of these tools, run a scan, and install updates automatically.

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4. Updating Device Drivers

Drivers help hardware (printers, graphics cards, network adapters) function properly.

Using Windows Device Manager

1. Right-click Start → Device Manager.
2. Expand a category (e.g., Display adapters for graphics drivers).
3. Right-click a device and select Update driver → Search automatically for drivers.

Using Manufacturer’s Software

• For better control, download updates from your hardware manufacturer:
  • NVIDIA, AMD, Intel (for graphics drivers)
  • HP, Dell, Lenovo, ASUS (for system drivers)
  • Printer manufacturers (HP, Epson, Canon, etc.)

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5. Enabling Automatic Updates for All Software

For convenience, enable auto-updates where possible:

• Windows Update: Enable automatic updates.
• Microsoft Store Apps: Turn on automatic updates.
• Individual Apps: Check if they have an auto-update setting in preferences.