Windows XP Tutorial: Enable/Disable Windows Automatic Update

Latest Microsoft Windows Operating System are packed with the Automatic update feature which connects to the internet frequently and download the latest updates and patches. This is a very good feature that helps us keep the Windows OS and other associated applications like Internet Explorer, etc., updated.

The automatic update feature prevents any virus or spyware programs penetrating into the computer by fixing the holes in the software.

This feature by default is enabled on your computer when you install the Operating System. But, if you or someone else who have used the computer has disabled the automatic update feature, this is how you can enable it.

Steps to Enable Windows Automatic Update:
1. Right Click My Computer and choose Properties
2. Click the Automatic Updates tab
3. Click Automatic(recommended) radio button to enable it.
    - You can also choose to download updates automatically but prompt for installation
4. You can select the frequency of updates. Default is everyday.

The following steps can be used to disable Automatic Update.
Steps to Enable Windows Automatic Update:
1, 2. Step 1 and 2 is the same as above
3. Click Turn Off Automatic Updates

Turning off Automatic updates is not recommended