OK, back to PC maintenance. This time we'll talk about "Windows Update" and "Microsoft Update".

As we've seen previously, there are many things we can do to ensure our PC is running optimally, and safely; from ensuring we have the latest virus scanner installed and installing a firewall to "defragging" your hard disk and removing temporary files. However one thing that's also key is ensuring that the core Operating System and system files are up to date. Fortunately, if you have a broadband internet connection, and are running a recent version of Windows, this is an easy task using "Microsoft Update"

Confusingly there are a couple of things we need to clear up:

Firstly, naming;

• Windows Update is the name given to the (automatic) method of updating the core Windows Operating System.
• Microsoft Update is a newer system which fully replaces Windows Update, and additionally updates other Microsoft products (e.g. Microsoft Office). 

If you are given the choice, follow directions to use the newer Microsoft Update system.

Secondly, the methods. There are two common methods to run the update system;

1. Via a web browser: http://update.microsoft.com Note: must be run using Internet Explorer.
   Using this method allows you to do a one-off update. It is designed for more experienced user, or for users with limited internet access.
2. Via the Control Panel: Click the Start button, click All Programs, and then click Windows Update.
   This method is the best option for novice users as it will automatically download and install updates.

For novice users Please follow the below guide to get you up and running:

• Windows XP:

  1. Connect to the Internet and go to the Microsoft Update website or click Microsoft Update on any Microsoft.com site. (If you've already turned it on you'll skip straight to Step 7 .)
     
     
     
  2. Click Start Now, and then click Continue.
     
     
     
  3. Automatic Updates is turned off by default. To turn on Automatic Updates, click Turn it on now.
     
     
     
  4. Select when you want the new updates installed. Click OK. Automatic Updates are now turned on.
     
     
     
  5. Click Check for Updates.
  6. Now that you have set up the Microsoft Update service and turned on Automatic Updates, click Check for Updates.
  7. Click either Express or Custom installation.
     • Express finds High-priority updates for your PC, which you install with one click. (Novice users should select this option)
       
     • Custom finds both High-priority and Optional. You individually review and select the updates you want to install (recommended for experienced users only).
       
  8. Microsoft Update scans your PC to identify which updates your PC needs. Follow the directions on the screen to download and install them.
     
     
     
     

• Windows Vista: 

  1. Click the Start button, click All Programs, and then click Windows Update.
  2. Select "Change Settings".
  3. Optionally choose when the updates will be downloaded and installed, change the settings here to represent a time when your computer is connected to the internet, and you are not likely to be using it.
  4. Click the Get updates for more products button. (Note: If this button does not appear, it's likely you've already enabled Microsoft Update. This may happen when you installed other software programs like Microsoft Office 2007. In this case, the phrase "You receive updates: For Windows and other products from Microsoft Update" should appear near the bottom of the window.)
  5. Follow the instructions to use Microsoft Update. Windows Update will begin to scan your PC for available updates for Windows and other Microsoft products if you have automatic updating turned on.
  6. In the left pane, click Check for updates, and then wait while Windows looks for the latest updates for your PC.
     
  7. If any updates are found, click View available updates.
     
  8. Select the Optional updates that you want, and then click Install. If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
  9. Note: If you are offered an Optional update that you don't want to install, you can simply right click and select Hide update and it will not appear on the list the next time you use the update service. If you discover that you do want it, simply select Restore Hidden Updates.

• Older versions of Windows

  1. Please visit http://www.update.microsoft.com/microsoftupdate/v6/default.aspx
  2. Follow the instructions on the website selecting the default or recommended options

Note that once the automatic client is installed, you will occasionally see an icon in the bottom right of your screen which shows and update progress.

Note: Additional instructions and guides courtesy of:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/downloads/windowsupdate/learn/windowsxp.mspx and
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/downloads/windowsupdate/learn/windowsvista.mspx