Microsoft Updates, Windows Updates, Automatic Updates, all these phrases can cause a bit of confusion for the average pc user. Are they all the same? When do I need to do updates? What if I have errors after the update is installed? These are just a few of the common questions we regularly receive from users. Below we will answer these questions and give you a clear understanding of the Microsoft Update process.

What are the differences between Windows Updates, Microsoft updates and Automatic Updates?

Windows Updates are designed specifically for the Windows Operating System installed on your computer.  Microsoft Update enlarges the scope of the download and to include updates for other Microsoft based programs, such as Microsoft Office and Windows Live.

An Automatic Update is generally set-up on your system if it is newer. This feature provides you with the ability to let your PC automatically download and install updates. While using the Automatic Update feature is easy and convenient, you do not have the ability to choose which updates are going to be installed. If you do not want to make selections however, setting the Automatic Update is the best way to keep your PC current with the best patches and updates available.

When you consider the endless onslaught of potential threats to your computer, it makes sense to protect it in every way you can. One of the most obvious ways to protect your computer isn’t as glamorous as a giant firewall or expensive security suite, however – you need to simply download Microsoft updates for your computer.

Microsoft Updates Deter Hackers

The code that created Microsoft is immense, and hackers seek for problems or holes in the code as their entry way into your computer. Once in, they can steal information and wreak havoc. As Microsoft professionals find these holes and repair them, they release security updates for computer users effectively deterring hackers.

Ever feel overwhelmed with the number of updates you always seem to need for your Windows operating system? There may be a great number of downloads that your computer is set to automatically download and not all of them are necessary. Changing the settings of your computer so that you can select which downloads you want can really decrease the number of updates you will need, and reduce unnecessary space being taken up on your hard drive. It can also reduce the time it takes to download and process updates on your computer making it less frustrating. This may sound nice, but how can you tell which downloads are really necessary or not?

Follow these simple steps to streamline your Windows Updates experience.