How to Turn on Automatic Updates in Windows XP

Help protect your PC by enabling Automatic Updates
by Updated January 29, 2009

If you would rather not have to worry about manually updating your computer to get the latest security updates from Microsoft, you’re in luck because you can easily turn on Automatic Updates and it will allow Windows to automatically download and install the latest security updates, critical updates and service packs for your computer.  To enable Automatic Updates in Windows XP:

  1. Click Start and then go to Control Panel.
  2. Double-click on System to open up the System Properties box.
  3. Click the "Automatic Updates" tab.
  4. Select Automatic (recommended) and click the OK button.

Another way to turn on Automatic Updates is by right-clicking on My Computer located on your desktop, and then select Properties. This will bring up the System Properties box where you can find the Automatic Updates tab.

Lastly, you may also turn on Automatic Updates, by going to http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com. If Automatic Updates is not turned on, click on the "Turn on Automatic Updates" button located on the right side of your screen just below the red shield (once turned on the shield will be green). An Automatic Updates window will pop up allowing for you to schedule a day and time when your computer should install new updates. The default setting of "Every day" at "3:00 AM" should be fine for most. Click the "OK" button to turn on Automatic Updates. You can also click the "More Options" button if you would like to be notified before downloaded or installing new updates, or turn off Automatic Updates.

 


0
0

Add your comment

by Anonymous - Already have an account? Login now!
Your Name:

Comment:
Enter the text you see in the image below
What do you see?
Can't read the image? View a new one.
Your comment will appear after being approved.

Related Posts


Learn how to get the latest security updates and service packs for your Microsoft Windows computer.  more »

In the following step by step, I will take you through the process of deleting existing hard drive partitions, formating and installing Windows XP on a hard drive using the Windows XP installation CD. Note: If you have any data/applications or drivers on...  more »

If you are sick of getting the Error Reporting window popping up all the time, then you’ll be happy to know that error reporting can be easily turned off in Windows XP by following these simple steps.  more »

The ScanDisk utility that was in previous versions of Windows is no longer available in Windows XP. Not to worry because you can now use the Error-Checking tool to check the integrity of your hard disk.  more »