While system updates don’t protect you in the same way an antivirus does, updates help keep your computer safe from the latest malware and other internet security threats, which often target vulnerabilities in outdated software. Show
Windows 8 and 10 have made installing updates fast and user-friendly, and our step-by-step guides below will walk you through the process of updating your PC to keep your system as secure as possible. Why Operating System Updates Are ImportantThere are good reasons why Microsoft and other OS developers push for updates, though. Taking the time to perfect your system’s update settings is worth doing for the following reasons:
How to Update Windows 8.1
Viewing Previous UpdatesOn the left side of the Update window, you have the option to view your update history. Recently installed updates are shown here organized by status, importance, and date installed. If a rogue update is causing issues, you can uninstall it from this window. Configuring Update SettingsSelect Change settings on the left-hand sidebar in the Windows Update section and you’ll see the option to schedule automatic updates. Here, you can configure Windows to update itself automatically. In addition, you can:
How to Update Windows 10Windows 10 will automatically download and install updates in the background. When a restart is required, Windows will warn you beforehand and let you decide whether to restart immediately or later. Keep in mind that if you postpone the restart too long, Windows will eventually require one. That being said, you can still manually check for new changes.
Viewing Previous UpdatesThe “View update history” link functions the same way as it did in previous versions of Windows. From here, you can view recently installed updates and uninstall any problematic ones. Uninstalled updates will eventually reappear later, though. Customizing Update SettingsBy clicking Change active hours in the Update window, you can set an interval of time during the day when you’re most likely using your computer. Windows will avoid restarting itself between those times. There’s also the comprehensive “Advanced options” link which lets you:
Updating Windows 8 & 10 — Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to update Windows?Yes. It’s incredibly important to keep your Windows system updated. Windows firmware updates include important bug fixes and security patches that prevent hackers from exploiting your system, accessing your private information, or deploying hidden malware to track your activity. Thankfully, Microsoft has made updating your PC or laptop pretty easy, but you can follow our step-by-step guide to ensure you’ve properly updated your system. Do I have to pay for Windows updates?No, you don’t have to pay for Windows updates. If you already have Windows 10 installed, you don’t have to pay for Windows 10-related updates. However, if you want to upgrade to a newer version of Windows (e.g. from Windows 8.1 to Windows 10), then you’ll have to pay for the upgraded version. How do I know if I need to update my PC?To check for Windows 8.1 updates, click Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Update > Check for Updates. The window will show any available updates. If there are available updates, click on Install updates and follow the instructions. While Windows 10 systems are set to update automatically, you can check for Windows 10 updates accessing the Windows settings from the Start menu, then click Updates & Security > Windows Update > Check for updates. Does Microsoft still provide Windows 7 updates?No. In January 2020, Microsoft discontinued Windows 7 software updates, including system security patches. While it’s still possible to use Windows 7, users will become increasingly vulnerable to malware and other cyberattacks. If you still use Windows 7, I highly recommend you to upgrade to a newer version of Windows, such as Windows 10, which provides regular software and system security updates. How do I update my antivirus?Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security and then Virus & threat protection.
How do I check if my antivirus is up to date?The status of your antivirus software is typically displayed in Windows Security Center.. Open Security Center by clicking the Start button , clicking Control Panel, clicking Security, and then clicking Security Center.. Click Malware protection.. How do I check for antivirus on Windows 7?Users using the classic start menu: Start > Settings > Control Panel > Security Center. Users using start menu: Start > Control Panel > Security Center.
What antivirus still works with Windows 7?Avast is Windows 7's official consumer security software provider. That means we're trusted by Microsoft - and our 435+ million users - to prevent viruses, malware, and other issues.
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