Here's a bit more on all of those options you have:. Install updates automatically recommended : Choose this option to have Windows Update automatically check for, download, and install important security patches. Download updates but let me choose whether to install them: Choose this to have Windows Update automatically check for and download important updates but not install them.
You'll have to explicitly choose to install the updates either from Windows Update or during the next shutdown process. Check for updates but let me choose whether to download and install them: With this option, Windows Update will check for and notify you of available updates but you'll need to manually approve the download and installation of them. Never check for updates not recommended : This option disables Windows Update completely in Windows 8, 7, or Vista.
When you choose this, Windows Update won't even check with Microsoft to see if important security patches are available. Here are what some of those other checkboxes mean, not all of which you'll see, depending on your version of Windows and how your computer is configured:. Give me recommended updates the same way I receive important updates: This option gives Windows Update permission to treat patches that Microsoft "recommends" the same way as patches thought to be "critical" or "important," and download and install them as you've selected in the drop-down box.
Allow all users to install updates on this computer: Check this if you have other, non-administrator accounts on your computer that actually get used. This will let those users install updates, too. However, even when unchecked, updates installed by an administrator will still get applied to those user accounts, they just won't be able to install them.
Show me detailed notifications when new Microsoft software is available: This is pretty self-explanatory—check it if you want to get notifications, via Windows Update, when Microsoft software you don't have installed is available for your computer.
Microsoft ended support for Windows XP many years ago. There will be no more updates. For your archives, here's how it worked back when they did still send updates. Windows Update is more an online service than an integrated part of Windows XP, but the update settings can be set from within the operating system.
Open Control Panel , usually via Start , and then its link on the right. Click Security Center. If you're viewing Control Panel in the Classic View , you won't see this link. Instead, double-click Automatic Updates and then skip to Step 4. Click the Automatic Updates link near the bottom of the window. We highly recommend that you choose the Automatic recommended option and the everyday choice from the drop-down that appears underneath, along with a time you're not using your computer.
However, considering that exceptions could be made in the future and that you still might not have the most up to date patches and features, we recommended keeping the "automatic" settings enabled. Click OK to save your changes. Here are more details on what those four choices actually mean for your Windows Update experience in Windows XP:.
Automatic recommended : Windows Update will automatically check for, download, and install updates, with no input from you needed. Download updates for me, but let me choose when to install them: Updates will be checked for, and downloaded, from Microsoft's servers, but they won't be installed until you manually approve them. Notify me but don't automatically download or install them: Windows Update will check for new updates from Microsoft, and let you know about them, but they won't be downloaded and installed until you say so.
You won't even be told that updates are available. You can, of course, still visit the Windows Update website yourself and check for any new patches. While it is possible, at least prior to Windows 10, we do not recommend completely disabling Windows Update.
At the very least, make sure you choose an option where you're notified of new updates, even if you choose not to have them automatically download or install. And on that thought Letting Windows Update check, download, and automatically install updates is a very good way to make sure you're protected from being exploited by security issues after they're discovered. Yes, at least in Windows 8, 7, and Vista, you could compromise by making that critical "install" part up to you, but that's just one more thing you have to remember to do.
Bottom line: we say keep it simple by keeping it automatic. Actively scan device characteristics for identification. Use precise geolocation data. Select personalised content. Create a personalised content profile.
Measure ad performance. Select basic ads. Create a personalised ads profile. Select personalised ads. Apply market research to generate audience insights. Measure content performance. Develop and improve products. List of Partners vendors. Tim Fisher. General Manager, VP, Lifewire. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn. Updated on April 15, Jerrick Leger. Lifewire Tech Review Board Member. He is also a systems administrator for an IT firm in Texas serving small businesses.
Article reviewed on Mar 04, Tweet Share Email. In This Article. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Email Address Sign up There was an error. Please try again. You're in! Thanks for signing up. There was an error. Tell us why! With Windows 10 at the heart of your computer you can do it all. Built-in security features include antivirus, firewall, and internet protections Scan your face or fingerprint with Windows Hello for a fast, secure, and password-free way to unlock your PC.
Your timeline provides a quick and easy way to scroll your most recent documents, apps, and websites Microsoft Photos is a simple way to organize, search, edit, and share your photos and videos.
USB - English. Add to cart. A new Windows is coming! Family, friends, music, creations- Windows 11 is the one place for it all. Overview Requirements. Previous Next. Comprehensive, built-in, ongoing protection. Windows Hello, passwords goodbye With Windows Hello you can just be yourself. Always up to date Windows 10 provides new feature and security updates on a regular cadence 1 and on your terms. Always on defense Windows 10 devices come with degrees of comprehensive security—from internet defense against viruses, malware, 4 and ransomware to tamper protection.
What you need to get things done. Secure and easy photo sharing Connect Microsoft Photos with your OneDrive so photos and videos are synced and secured across your devices—even if your device is damaged or lost. Safer surfing all day long Browse securely with Microsoft Defender SmartScreen and other built-in protections to prevent malware or phishing attacks and suspicious sites. Your PC and phone, together Now you can access your apps and notifications from your Android phone on your PC, 8 so you never miss a text or notification.
Windows 10 for each of us. Vision Hearing Neurodiversity Learning Mobility. Make the most of your Microsoft subscription. Bring your ideas to life Choose from thousands of curated stock images, icons, and fonts to add your own flair quickly and beautifully. Organize your time Manage multiple calendars in one view, sort through emails quickly with Focused Inbox, and use Suggested Replies to instantly hit send and move on.
Accomplish more together Share OneDrive documents from your PC or mobile device and let friends, classmates, or family view, make suggestions, edit, or collaborate in real time.
Find the right fit for your needs Check out our list of product offerings to see which Windows 10 version checks all of your boxes. Find the computer that's best for you Learn more. See what's new from Surface Learn more. Explore all Windows 10 computers Help me choose. Why shop at Microsoft Store. Free returns Return almost any product in like-new condition in its original packaging within 30 days. See returns details. Instant software downloads Install most apps and software, like Microsoft , Windows, and Xbox games, via digital download.
Learn about digital downloads. We've got answers. Get one-on-one support any time via chat or phone, or find answers fast with common FAQs. Get support. This is a full version of Windows We recommend you back up your files before installing.
Apps and features may vary by market. Windows Media Center is not supported. Internet access fees may apply. See Windows 10 Specifications for more details. Free OneDrive accounts include 5 GB of total storage, or room for about 2, photos. Internet access required, fees may apply. Requires a Microsoft Account and an Android 7. Calls require a minimum PC software version of Windows 10 May update or higher.
Requires Windows 10 PC supporting Bluetooth radio. DirectX Raytracing available with supported games, graphics chips, and requires Windows 10 April Update or newer.
Otherwise internet is required. Fees may apply. Files Restore requires a Microsoft subscription sold separately. OneDrive files are restored to the state they were in before the attack occurred. File versions created up to 30 days in the past can be restored at any time for any reason. Return process must be started within 60 days after customer received the device.
Not available for purchases by reseller customers. Extended return offer period limited to 5 device returns total per eligible customer. Excludes Surface Hub. Void where prohibited or restricted by law.
Microsoft reserves the right to modify or discontinue offers at any time.
