Getting Started with Microsoft Update
What Is Microsoft Update?
It's the new website from Microsoft that helps you update Microsoft Windows and many other Microsoft programs that you've installed, such as Microsoft Office, Microsoft Exchange Server and Microsoft SQL Server, all in one convenient place.
Does it work with Automatic Updates?
Yes. If you turn on Automatic Updates using your settings in Control Panel, Windows will automatically find and install high-priority updates for any Microsoft products that you have installed and that are supported by the website.
If I use Microsoft Update, do I still need to visit the Windows Update website?
No. Microsoft Update provides the same updates you find on the Windows Update website and more. Microsoft Update is designed to make it easier for you to update Windows and your Microsoft products in one place.
Do I still need to get updates from Office Online or use Office Update?
No, if you’ve installed Office 2003. If you use an earlier version of Office, you should still get updates from Office Online. Also, if you like to download fun or useful add-ons such as templates, clip art, and other media for any version of Office, you still need to go to Microsoft Office Online.
Tip: To check which version of Office you're using, open any Microsoft Office program. Click Help, and then click About (program name).
How often should I visit Microsoft Update?
That depends. If you turn on Automatic Updates, you automatically get the most important updates for your computer. You only need to visit the site to check for optional updates for your software and hardware.
If you do not use Automatic Updates, you should visit the site as often as possible and at least once each week.
What types of updates does Microsoft publish?
See this description of the standard terminology used to describe Microsoft software updates.
How does the website work with my computer?
Microsoft Update works with updating software in Windows. When you visit the site, the updating software identifies which version of Windows and other Microsoft products you use. This way, the website shows you only the updates that apply to your computer, not all updates published by Microsoft. The privacy policy describes which information is used to find updates your computer needs in more detail.
How often does Microsoft Update release new updates?
Security-related updates are released once a month. However, if a security threat occurs, such as a widespread virus or worm that affects Windows-based computers, Microsoft will release a corresponding update as soon as possible. Other types of updates can be released whenever they are ready.
It’s a good idea to turn on Automatic Updates so that your computer can receive high-priority updates as they become available.
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