Installing Critical Updates for Windows XP

Before you begin, you should back up any important data, then close all other programs. The updates that you have to install may vary from one computer to another; it depends on how up-to-date your software is. You should download and install all critical updates.

NOTE:You will probably have to restart your computer several times during the update process.
  1. Start Microsoft Internet Explorer.
  2. Click on Tools, then on Windows Update.

    Select Tools, then select Windows Update
  3. This will take you to the Microsoft Updates web page. This site will begin scanning your computer.
  4. You may see a Security Warning. If you do, click on the Yes button.

    Click Yes if the security warning comes up.
  5. Click on the Scan for updates button.

    Click on the Scan for updates
  6. The tool will look for available updates (this may take a moment, but you will see an indicator telling you what percent it's completed so far.

    Internet Explorer displays a screen showing the completed precentage
  7. When the tool has found which updates you need, click on Review and install updates.

    When the scan is finished, Internet Explorer will allow you to pick the updates to install
  8. If you need to install any exclusive items, click on the Install Now button.

    Internet Explorer will display the critical updates.
  9. You may see a notice telling you to install a particular update separately. Click on the OK button.

    Notice displayed when an update is needed that must be installed seperately
  10. You may see a status indicator letting you know how the download is progressing.

    Web Page Dialog that is show how the download is progressing
  11. You may be asked to agree to a license. Click on the Accept button.

    Accept the Windows Update that has downloaded
  12. If prompted, click on the Next button.

    You may be prompted for additional downloads, click the Next button
  13. Again, if you are asked to accept a license, click on I accept the agreement, then click on the Next button.

    Accept agreements if prompted
  14. You may see more progress indicators letting you know how the download and installation are going.

    Internet Explorer 6 downloadsadditional components
  15. It could take awhile; but please be patient and let it finish.
  16. When the first update is installed, you will probably be prompted to restart your computer.

    Installation complete, restart if needed
  17. Click on the OK button and let your computer restart.

    18. Note:. This does not mean you're finished!

  18. After your computer has restarted, it is extremely important that you return the Windows Update site. Continue downloading and installing all the critical updates until no more updates are found.
    It may take sometime, and you may have to restart your computer repeatedly, but it must be done to protect your computer.

When all the critical updates have been installed, you should set your computer to automatically download and install updates in the future.

If you need additional assistance, please call the HelpLine at 5700.