The lowdown on updates

T+D, Dec, 2003 by William Powell

To set up Automatic Update, right-click on the My Computer icon and click on Properties to access the System Properties dialog box. Next, select the Automatic Updates tab and check the box next to "Keep my computer up to date." Now, depending on the level of control you'd like to have when downloading and installing updates, select one of the three options under Settings. I recommend having Windows notify you before downloading and installing any updates. Home users with an always-on connection might opt for automatically downloading and installing the updates on a regular schedule. At the office, I prefer the ability to get an OK from IT before installing any new software.

When a new update is available, a notification balloon and icon will appear in the Quick Start toolbar. You can click either the balloon or the icon to review and then install it.

Keeping your operating system and related Microsoft applications updated is just one way to protect your computer. Home users with a broadband connection should seriously consider having a firewall in place. Windows XP provides a built-in firewall. Though it's easy to start, it can take a while to iron out the wrinkles when used with a home network. If you're not working with a home network, it's easy enough for a beginner to install. Detailed instructions, as well as other security tips, can be found at the Microsoft Security Webpage.

Finally, all users should have up-to-date virus protection. So, while you're waiting for your updates to download, it might be a good time to zip over to your local computer store and purchase virus-protection software, if you haven't already, or tack on an online virus update if you already have the software installed. Any update to your OS is useless if you haven't established your first line of defense.