What are Windows updates — are they really necessary !?
In one word. Yes !
Microsoft regularly release security and product updates for their Windows operating system. It's a continual development process of product enhancement; supporting the demands of new and emerging technology, software applications, and to meet future security challenges. Some updates are not really that noticeable to the average computer user but many are, and can add significant functionality to better the end-user experience.
For example; Since launch, Windows 10 has been updated many, many times. If you run the winver command, you'll see exactly what version is installed on your computer. Some updates you'll find as you continue to use their system software or discover immediately after re-starting your computer. Other Windows updates are more technical in nature so you won't readily notice them unless your job requires you to.
Can I postpone the updates for Windows until I'm ready to install them?
Yes you can. And you can pick a time outside your computer working hours when you would like them installed because an update may involve restarting your computer so that it can install itself, automatically. What you do is set your active hours (the time when you need to use your computer) and Windows won't restart your computer during the time you've specified. Windows update is quite comprehensive and there are several controls you can set to get the best from their update service.
When you service a computer running Windows, do you update it too?
Always, unless a specific update is proving to be problematic with your computer. We can troubleshoot issues such as something not working as it should after an update and in particular, we are mindful that not every update may be suitable for every computer or user preference. For example, if after an update, your computers' mousepad or your screen doesn't work the way it used to or something doesn't work at all, it means that the software that talks with the hardware is not working as it should — there is a lack of communication if you will — so we figure-out what's wrong and put it right.
When you re-install Windows, do you install the updates too?
Yes, always. You'll get your computer back with everything bang up-to-date. You won't get it back until we're confident that there are no further updates to apply and that everything works as it should. Updates take time. Updating is fairly automated, but it still takes time — it's an important task that can't be rushed along or skipped.
It seems that every time I switch on my computer, there's an update to install !?
“I don't use my computer that often and when I do want to use it, it says there are updates to install and it needs to reboot...” Well, if you're reading this and finding yourself thinking much the same thing, there is a solution! Simply try not to use your computer like an electric kettle, i.e. switching it on for 5 minutes and then switching it off again.
Plan in advance. For example, if you know you're going to want to use your computer at 14:00 then switch it on at 13:00 or 12:30 — if your computer is a laptop or tablet, keep it powered-up and not reliant on battery power and if you can, connect it to the internet so it can download the updates it needs. It's best to use a broadband internet connection that is not metered, meaning that you have an unlimited download quota or at least a download quota that's substantial. Whilst you can use a metered internet connection, extra charges or other penalties may apply if you exceed your quota !!
So when you start-up your computer with plenty of time to spare before you want to use it and after it has loaded the desktop you discover that there's an update which is sat sitting there waiting to be installed, you should have ample time to go ahead and proceed with getting that update installed and out of the way.
Allowing your computer to get going early will also give your computer the window of opportunity it needs to do its housekeeping to keep itself running smoothly and efficiently. And when it comes to the time that you want to use it, your computer should have finished doing whatever it needs to do, allowing you to get on and do what you want to do without interruption or a reduction in system performance.
Of course, you don't have to start your computer an hour before you want to use it, but it helps to understand why giving your computer some spare time every now and again is a very good thing !
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If you need help with Windows updates and settings, please arrange to bring your computer in to Riches Informatique.
Microsoft, and Windows are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
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