Updating Drivers and Software with Windows Update

Updating Drivers and Software with Windows Update
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In this document:
Perform an automatic update from Microsoft (best for high-speed)
Perform a manual update from Microsoft (best for dial-up)
Related links
This document pertains to Notebook PCs with Windows Vista.
Understanding Windows Update
We recommend that the Microsoft Windows Update be used on a regular basis to locate and install the latest fixes and enhancements for their products. The Windows Update addresses issues with both the Vista operating system and the Microsoft products installed on your PC. Here are some examples of issues that using the Windows Update function can solve:

Security vulnerabilities where the computer can be subjected to malicious attacks.
Music problems when recording in Windows Media Player.
A USB device disappears or stops working.
Cannot establish a Remote Assistance connection.
Windows Vista stops responding when connected to the Internet.
There are two methods of performing an update from Microsoft: automatically and manually. Both methods work, but automatic downloads work best for fast Internet connections (like cable or DSL) and manual is best for dial-up connections. Use one of the following sections depending on your Internet connection.
Perform an automatic update from Microsoft (best for high-speed)
Perform the following steps to automatically find and install updated software and hardware drivers for your PC with Windows Vista on a preset time schedule:

If you are not already connected to the Internet, connect now.
Click Start, and type Windows Update in the Search field. Select Windows Update as soon as it becomes available.
Click Change settings in the left pane.
Under Install updates automatically, select one of the three settings that best fits your needs, set a time at which your computer will be online, and then click OK.
Your PC is now set to automatically check and accept any critical updates that become available when you are online.

Perform a manual update from Microsoft (best for dial-up)
Perform the following steps to find and install updated software and hardware drivers for your PC with Windows Vista:

Create a system restore point to back up your system before starting the update. If you do not know how to create a system restore point, see Related links for more information.
If you are not already connected to the Internet, connect now.
Click Start, and type Windows Update in the Search field. Select Windows Update as soon as it becomes available.
In the Windows Update page, click Check for updates in the left pane.
If any updates are available, click the Install updates button. Some updates may require you to restart your computer.
Your PC has now been updated with the most recent drivers and patches available through Microsoft.