Summary

To allow Microsoft Windows install updates for you automatically, all you have to do is to make sure Automatic Updating is turned on. Updating your computer provides benefits, such as improved security and reliability, which in turn, keeps your computer running at its peak performance. Follow the instructions given in this article to turn automatic updates on.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Windows XP

1. Right-click My Computer, click Properties, and click Automatic Updates.
2. Choose Automatic (recommended) option.
   
3. Set how frequently you want Microsoft Windows to check for new updates and at what time of day.
4. Click OK.

Windows Vista and Windows 7

1. Click Start and in the search box, type Windows Update and press ENTER.
2. In the left pane, click Change Settings.
3. Under Important Updates, make sure you've Install updates automatically selected.
   
4. Set how frequently you want Microsoft Windows to check for new updates and at what time of day.
5. Click OK.

Additional Information

In Windows XP Home Edition, you must be logged on as a computer administrator to install components and modify Automatic Updates settings. In Windows XP Professional, you must be logged on as an administrator or as a member of the Administrators group.