Windows Operating System Updates

As new security threats and bugs emerge, Microsoft releases security updates that you should apply immediately. Microsoft also releases enhancements to the Operating System and their other products through the Windows Update feature. We recommend you configure Windows Update to automatically check for updates weekly.

Performing updates on your computer requires an Internet connection, preferably a high speed one such as that provided by a cable modem or DSL. Each update can take 10-15 minutes and the entire process could take more than an hour, depending on how many updates are required. If you do not yet have Service Pack 2 (SP2), please be aware that it is a very important, very large update that will take at least 45 minutes to download and install. If you have a dial-up connection or do not have an Internet connection, and you plan to bring your computer to campus, please return to this step on the CD immediately when you come to school and connect to the Emmanuel network.

  1. Open Internet Explorer.
  2. From the Menu Bar at the top of the screen, select Tools. From the drop down menu, select Windows Update.
  3. Your computer will be checked for the latest version of the Windows Update software. Please be patient while this takes place.
  4. If a screen appears saying "Get the latest Windows Update software" Click Install Now.
  5. If a Security Warning window appears, check the box that says "Always trust content from Microsoft Windows Publisher," then click Yes.
  6. An Installing Updates window shows you the status of the download.
  7. Before going further, double check that your computer is set to automatically check for and install updates. In the Welcome to Windows Update dialog box, if you see a red shield with an X through it that says "Help Protect Your PC," click Turn on Automatic Updates.
  8. Pick a time when you know your computer will be on and connected to the Internet, then click OK.
  9. Now you will see a green shield that says "Automatic Updates: Turned ON."
  10. In the Welcome to Windows Update dialog box, click Express. Installation of critical updates will begin.
  11. The tool scans for the latest security updates for your computer.
  12. A page displays all of the updates that will be installed, click Download and Install Now.
  13. The updates are being downloaded and installed. Depending on how many updates your computer needs, this step can take up to 1 hour.
  14. When you are prompted, click Restart Now to restart your computer, and run through steps 1-4 again until you see "No new updates." Then go to the next step on this CD: installing antivirus software.

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