How to Check for and Install Windows Updates

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

Updating your operating system software is essential; not only will it bring new features but it will fix vulnerabilities and bugs detected by Microsoft. Windows 10 automatically checks for updates, however, you can do this on your own as well.

Tools You'll Need:

  • A paperclip
  • iPhone charging cable
  • Access to a computer with iTunes installed
  • Any other non-consumable tools needed
  • Comment out tools section if no tools are necessary

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Supplies You'll Need:

  • Zip ties
  • Any other consumable supplies
  • Comment out supplies section if no supplies are necessary

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Before You Begin:

  • If you are using a laptop, make sure you have it plugged in.

Changing Update Settings

Windows Update

2. Determine Windows Version

There are 3 main versions of Windows currently supported.

Windows 10

Released in 2015, this is the latest version of Windows. It is fully supported by Microsoft.

Windows 10 Desktop

If you are not sure, most likely you have Windows 10.

Windows 8

Released in 2012, Microsoft only offers extended bug-fix and patch support, no new features.

Windows 8 Desktop

Windows 7

Released in 2009, Microsoft only offers extended bug-fix and patch support, no new features.

Windows 7 Desktop

3. Manual Update (Windows 10)

  1. Click the Start button.
Windows 10 start button icon.
  1. Click the Settings button on the left side of the start menu
Windows 10 settings button icon.
  1. Click Update and Security.
Windows 10 update and security icon.
  1. Click Check for updates.
Windows 10 update and security screen with check for updates highlighted.
  1. Once the system has finished checking for updates, it will automatically download and install the latest applicable updates.
  2. Your computer may also prompt you to restart. If it does, please do so at your earliest convenience. Some changes that updates need to make cannot be processed until a restart has been performed.

If you system was already recently updated, chances are that no further updates are available and your Update status will indicate: Your device is up to date.

4. Manual Update (Windows 8)

  1. Open the Start Menu, and select Settings.
Windows

Windows 8 Settings
  1. Select Update and recovery.
Settings menu with Update and Recovery highlighted.
  1. Select Windows Update on the left, then select Check now on the right.
Update and recovery settings with Windows Update and Check now highlighted.
  1. Once the system has finished checking for updates, it will automatically download and install the latest applicable updates.Some Windows Updates can't be made with the system running. Instead, Windows will ask to reboot to complete these updates.
    If prompted simply select Reboot to complete the update process.

5. Manual Update (Windows 7)

  1. Open the Start menu, then select All Programs at the bottom.
Windows 7 Start Menu

Windows 7 Start Menu with All Programs highlighted.
  1. Select Windows Update.
Windows Update
  1. Select Check for updates.
Windows Update with Check for updates highlighted.
  1. If any updates are indicated, follow the instructions on-screen to complete their installation.