Operating systems such as Windows XP Professional and XP Home as well as windows vista (all versions) need to be updated regularly, in order to patch any security flaws or problems that may cause instability within the operating system. Microsoft provides a quick and easy way to keep all of your Microsoft products up to date called Microsoft updates. To make sure your computer is set to receive updates right click on my computer and choose properties. Next, choose the automatic updates tabs and make sure you have the received updates automatically box checked. This will download and install all the current critical patch updates that your computer needs. ( If you are a bit techey then you can choose to install the updates when you want to, However, for most people the first option is best, less hassle. In Windows Vista (all versions) you can find the automatic update settings in the control panel under windows update. From there you can choose the settings link on the right side of the box, and you can make any adjustment to the settings you choose. Just recently Microsoft has released service packs for both vista and XP all versions, in most cases installing these updates will increase system performance and keep your system safe from hackers.
In an office environment you will want to make sure you check with your IT Professional before installing updates because some of the updates could affect your specialized software in an adverse way bring your office to an abrupt halt. Once your It Professional tests the patches on a few computers to make sure you are fine, they then will update each computer one at a time to isolate any problems a particular computer may have with the updates. Remember to update regularly to keep your system up to date and if you have a little yellow shield next to your clock this is a signal that there are updates ready to install. If you have not run Microsoft update before you should take the time to run it as soon as possible so your computer is up to date and ready to surf and do business. Remember even if you run a Macintosh or a Linux system you should always make sure your operating system is up to date.
