How to update a Microsoft Windows computer
Answer:
Since the introduction of Microsoft Windows 98 Microsoft has greatly improved the way users can update their computer. Below are steps on how to perform these updates as well as additional recommendations to help update your computer.
Microsoft Windows Update
If you are running Microsoft Windows 98, Windows 98 SE, Windows ME, Windows 2000, Windows XP, or a later version of Microsoft Windows you are eligible to update Microsoft Windows and in some cases your computer hardware with the latest drivers through Microsoft’s update site. To perform this update follow the below steps.
Note: Users on a corporate network or running an illegal copy of Microsoft Windows may be unable to perform Microsoft Updates. If you are on a corporate network contact your administrator if you are concerned about updating your computer. If you are running a illegal copy of Microsoft Windows we recommend you purchase Microsoft Windows.
Visit http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com, clicking on this link will open a new window for you.
On the Microsoft Windows Update page select the option “Scan for updates”. If prompted to install a plug-in click Yes. Not installing this plug-in will prevent you from scanning for updates.
After Windows Update has completed scanning you should be able to view the available updates for your computer. It is highly recommended that you update all critical updates and service packs that are available first. In some cases you may be only able to do a few critical updates or service pack updates each time.
Although Microsoft does provide some driver updates for hardware devices it is important to realize that they will not have all the latest drivers. You may wish to consider updating the drivers directly from your computer manufacturer. See our drivers page for a listing of computer hardware manufacturers and a link to their drivers page.
Note: Whenever you are prompted to reboot the computer, reboot the computer. This is a very important step and in some cases may be required several times before you have completed all the Windows update. After the computer has rebooted make sure to visit the Windows update page again to make sure all the files you need downloaded.