Microsoft releases new versions of their software (Windows operating system updates as well as application updates) through Windows Update. Microsoft also releases security updates and patches through Windows Update, so it is very important that you have Windows Update configured properly on your computer.

Saint Mary's College recommends that you configure your computer to automatically download the updates and install them on a schedule that you specify.

To turn on Automatic Updates for your computer:

1. Open the Control Panel. (From the Desktop, move your cursor to the upper right corner of your screen to pull up the Charms bar. Select Settings. Select Control Panel.)
2. In the upper right corner of the Control Panel window, next to View by:, select Small icons.
3. Click on Windows Update.
4. Click the Change Settings.
5. In the Important updates section, select Install updates automatically (recommended).
6. In the Recommended updates section, check the box to Give me recommended updates the same way I receive important updates.
7. In the Microsoft Update section, check the box to Give me updates for other Microsoft products when I update Windows.

8. Click OK.
9. In the Windows Update window, click Check for updates to make sure your computer has the most current operating system and security patches available. There may or may not be updates available for your computer. If there are updates, click on Install updates.
10. Restart your computer if prompted, or close the Windows Update window when the updates, if any, have been installed.

Automatic updating ensures that your computer has the latest software available for Windows, protecting it from potential security issues. Updates are automatically downloaded in the background when you are online and should not interfere with your computer use. If you disconnect from the network, the updates will resume downloading the next time you go online. Please restart your computer when prompted and always install critical updates immediately!