Step 1 - Update Your Software
Software companies regularly release updates to their programs. When an update becomes available for a program that you use on your computers, install it as soon as possible. Updates fix security vulnerabilities that allow attackers to gain access to your computer and the information it contains. Updates are typically available at no charge. Key point: If a software maker has a tool that can automatically update your software over the Internet, it is generally a good idea to use it. On This Page
More about security updatesSoftware developers do not set out to write unsafe or vulnerable programs. However, a typical operating system requires thousands of hours of developer work and the use of millions of lines of code. Even after rigorous testing, software can have a weakness or a "bug" that provides an entry point into an otherwise secure system. It is almost impossible to write bug-free software. Also, the more successful and widespread a piece of software is, the more likely attackers are to look for bugs and security holes. An update is a code fix that is applied to the software already installed on your computer. An update is sometimes called a "patch" because it closes the security hole. Updates can also include enhancements to your software. For instance, an update might include the drivers for new printers on the market or add new features and functions to the software. How updates get deliveredYou get software updates from the software manufacturer. Typically you download the update from the manufacturer's Web site to your computer and then follow instructions for installing it. You may need to go to the software maker's Web site to check for updates. However, if you have registered your software, the manufacturer may notify you when you launch the program that an update is available. Some software makers also enable your computer to automatically download and install the updates without any interaction required from you. Updating Windows Vista and Windows XPThe Windows Vista and Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) operating systems use Windows Update, a component that installs the latest security updates and feature upgrades from Microsoft. Windows Update connects over the Internet to Microsoft services that identify which version of Windows you use and then delivers only the updates that apply to your computer. Updates to the Internet Explorer browser and Windows Defender antispyware software are also delivered this way. The Automatic Updates feature in Windows Update is the easiest and most reliable way to make sure that you get new security updates as soon as they become available. It is turned on for you when Windows Vista or Windows XP (SP2) is installed. This means Windows Update will automatically download and install important updates on your computer. Automated updating occurs in the background while you work, however, an update may require that you restart your computer to complete installation. (You may be able to postpone the restart for a period of time.) You can change how Automatic Updates works on your computers:
Because it is easy to forget to check regularly for software updates, it is recommended that you keep Automatic Updates turned on. If you turn it off, create a reminder to once a week visit Microsoft Update, a Web site that offers the same downloads available from Windows Update—plus the latest updates for Microsoft Office 2003 and Office XP and other Microsoft programs. Updates for Microsoft OfficeYou can get security updates and feature upgrades for most Microsoft Office suites — including Office 2007, Office 2003, Office XP and Office 2000 — by visiting the Office Update Web site. Office Update will check your Office software and inform you if any updates are required. You can then download and install them.
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