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. From the Start menu, select Control Panel.
2. Double-click on Windows Update.
3. Click the Change Settings.
4. Click the button to Install updates automatically (recommended).
5. Set the first pop-up menu to Every Day.
6. Set the second pop-up menu to a time you would like the updates to be downloaded and installed. Choosing a time you are less likely to be using the computer (between 2:00am and 6:00am, or a time when you will always be in class) may be most convenient.
7. Check the box to Include recommended updates when downloading, installing, or notifying me about updates.
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, please choose to Install Now.
10. Restart your computer if prompted, or close the Windows Update window when the updates, if any, have been installed.

After you turn on Automatic Updates, Windows recognizes when you are online and uses your Internet connection to find updates on the Windows Update Web site that apply to your computer. Updating occurs in the background, and flexible options are provided for completing the updating process. If an update requires a restart to complete installation, you can schedule this for a specific time when it won't disrupt your work. You can also postpone a previously scheduled restart until your current work is complete. And when a software update applies to a file in use, Windows Vista can save the application's data, close the application, update the file, and then restart the application. Always install critical updates immediately!