Set automatic updates on your operating system software

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Configuring your computer to automatically update its operating system will ensure you do not miss important security updates which will help reduce the risk of your computer being compromised.

Operating systems such as Microsoft Windows XP, Microsoft Windows Vista, Microsoft Windows 7, Mac OS X, and Linux have an automatic update feature. These software updates, also known as patches or fixes correct security bugs in the operating system which, if exploited, could allow an attacker to steal sensitive information from your computer or delete or modify your computer’s files.

Following the simple steps below provides a good first step in securing your computer from malicious software attacks.

Top tips

  • Turn on automatic updates so your operating system software receives the latest fixes. Criminals are constantly looking for ways to exploit weaknesses in your computer’s security, so it is important that your operating system software is up-to-date and to help prevent new threats.
  • Install and activate anti-virus and anti-spyware software. New malicious software is created every day, so it is important to keep your anti-virus and anti-spyware software up to date at all times.
  • Install a firewall. A firewall will monitor information going in and out of your computer and block unauthorised activity.

On this page

  • Setting automatic updates in Windows XP
  • Setting automatic updates in Windows Vista
  • Setting automatic updates in Windows 7
  • Setting automatic updates in Apple Mac OSX

Fact sheets and resources

Setting automatic updates in Windows XP

1. Click the Start button.

start

2. Click Control Panel

control

3. Select the Security Center icon.

secureity_centre

4. Open the icon labelled Automatic Updates.

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5. Select Automatic. You can schedule Automatic Updates for any time of day..

schedule

Click OK.

Setting automatic updates in Windows Vista

1. Open Windows Update by clicking the Start button startt_button. Click All Programs, and then click Windows Update.

2. In the left pane, click Change settings.

3. Under Important updates, select Install updates automatically (recommended).

4. Under Recommended updates, select the Give me recommended updates the same way I receive important updates check box, and then click OK. shield If you're prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

Learn more about Windows Update for Vista from Microsoft. http://www.microsoft.com/windows/downloads/windowsupdate/learn/windowsvista.mspx

Setting automatic updates in Windows 7

1. Open Windows Update by clicking the Start button startt_button. Click All Programs, and then click Windows Update, or in the search box, type Update, and then, in the list of results, click Windows Update.

2. In the left pane, click Change settings.

3. Under Important updates, SelectInstall updates automatically (recommended).

4. Under Recommended updates, select the Give me recommended updates the same way I receive important updates check box, and then click OK. shield If you're prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

Setting automatic updates in Apple Mac OSX

1. Choose System Preferences from the Apple Menu.

2. Choose Software Update from the System pane.

3. Select the “Check for updates” check box.

4. Select the “Download updates automatically” check box.

5. Close the Software Update window.

Learn more about how to use Apple Software Update.