Microsoft Security Updates
(Windows Update)

Microsoft is continually producing enhancements and bug fixes for all the software they produce, especially their Windows operating systems (XP, etc.).  When a new operating system is released, there will be dozens of updates that follow until all the little bugs are worked out and the OS supports all the software and hardware in use by the end users (like you and me).  The updates are important and helpful, but the really important updates are called "critical updates" for good reason.  These are software changes designed to enhance your Windows operating system security.  In the early years of computing, you could only be attacked by a virus or worm if you actually opened an email that had the virus or worm attached. 

The malicious programmers who write the viruses have now figured out ways to infect your computer without even using emails at all!  Some of the newer varieties of worms being released (like the blaster worm) use a known vulnerability in the Windows operating system to attack your system when you are on line without using your email client at all.  If you don't have the necessary security updates installed, the worm will infect your computer without you even knowing it (until your computer stops functioning).  Most people think that having a good anti-virus program installed will protect them from infection, but that is simply not the case!  You must download and install the Microsoft critical updates on a regular basis if you want to be protected!

You may know someone who has downloaded and installed these updates and then had problems with their computer.  In fact, they probably actually had problems with their computer before they installed the update.  I have over two dozen PC's in my office that automatically download the updates on a weekly basis and I have never had any problems with any of the updates.  These machines also automatically update their virus definition files each week and we have never been affected by any type of virus or worm.

Click here for more information and step by step instructions for completing the Windows update or click here to update your system now without further assistance.