Windows Updates and Service Packs

A web-based software update service for Microsoft Windows operating systems. It offers a location for the download of important system component updates, security fixes, service packs, patches and free upgrades to selected Windows components. Furthermore, it automatically detects the user’s hardware and gives driver updates when available. It can also offer beta versions of some Microsoft programs.

Nearly all new updates and patches go “live” on the Windows Update website almost immediately after they are released. Otherwise, fixes and updates can always be manually downloaded from the Microsoft website. The Windows Update website requires Internet Explorer or an IE shell replacement, as it requires the use of an ActiveX control. It is coded in Microsoft scripting languages VBScript and JScript. Last year, Microsoft launched an alternative Microsoft Update that delivers updates for supported OS, plus Microsoft Office (2003 and XP only), Exchange and SQL Server.

Service packs are the means by which product updates are circulated. They may contain updates for system reliability, security, program compatibility, and more. These updates are conveniently bundled in one package that can easily be installed. Service packs are usually released when the number of individual patches to a certain program becomes too bulky. It is relatively easier and safer to install a service pack than setting up a high number of patches individually, even more so when updating multiple computers over a network.

To know what service pack is installed in your computer: Right click the “My Computer” icon. Choose “Properties”. The “System Properties” dialog box will be displayed. In the “General Tab”, you will see the service pack. Make sure that you have the latest service pack installed in your computer to keep it secure and running properly.