Automatic Updates overview

With Automatic Updates, Windows routinely checks for updates that can help protect your computer against the latest viruses and other security threats. These high-priority updates are available through the Windows Update Web site and include security updates, critical updates, or service packs.

When you turn on Automatic Updates, you don't have to search for updates online or worry that critical fixes might be missing. Windows automatically downloads and installs them for you, using a schedule that you determine. If you prefer to download and install updates yourself, you can also set up Automatic Updates to notify you whenever any high-priority updates become available.