Keeping Windows up-to-date automatically
Windows can now keep your computer up-to-date automatically with the latest updates, drivers, and enhancements. You no longer have to search for critical updates and information; Windows delivers them directly to your computer. Windows recognizes when you are online and uses your Internet connection to search for downloads from the Windows Update Web site. An icon appears in the notification area each time new updates are available.
You can specify how you want Windows to update your computer. For example, you can choose to have Windows notify you whenever it finds updates available for your computer. It will then download the updates in the background, allowing you to continue working uninterrupted. After the download is complete, an icon will appear in the taskbar with a message that the updates are ready to be installed. When you click the icon or message, you will be able to install the new updates in a few simple steps.
If you choose not to install a specific update that has been downloaded, Windows deletes its files from your computer. If you change your mind later, you can download it again by first clicking Restore Declined Updates. If any of the updates you previously declined still apply to your computer, they will appear the next time Windows notifies you of available updates.
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| • | In Windows XP Home Edition, you must be logged on as a computer administrator to install components or modify Automatic Updates settings. In Windows XP Professional, you must be logged on as an administrator or a member of the Administrators group. If your computer is connected to a network, network policy settings might also prevent you from completing this procedure. Windows might prompt you to restart your computer after certain components are installed. Please restart your computer when prompted; otherwise, your computer might not work properly. You can always install specific updates from the Windows Update Web site. Open Windows Update in Help and Support Center. |