Microsoft Windows Update is an important web program that updates computers running the Windows operating system with the latest security updates.  The web site will scan your computer for any security issues and install the proper updates to fix it.  Visiting the Windows Update web site on a regular basis is critical to protect your computer from the latest viruses, worms, and other malware. 

To run Windows Update on computers running the Windows 2000 or XP operating system, please visit http://www.update.microsoft.com  and follow the instructions below:

1. If this is the first time you've visited the Windows Update web site, you will be prompted with the following message.  Click INSTALL to the security warning message.  This will install the Windows Update application on your computer.
   
    
2. You may see the following message if you have Windows Update software installed, but it is out of date.  Click INSTALL NOW to install the latest version of Windows Updates. 
   
3. Click EXPRESS Install.  This will check your computer to see if it needs updates in order to properly run the Windows Update software.
   
    
4. If your computer needs any updates in order to run the Windows Update software, you will be prompted with the following window.  Click DOWNLOAD AND INSTALL NOW. 
   
    
5. Click I ACCEPT to confirm that you agree to the license agreement.
   
    
6. After the updates to the Windows Update software have been successfully installed, you may be prompted to restart your computer.  Make sure you have closed any running applications and saved all work before continuing.  Click RESTART NOW.
   
    
7. After your computer reboots, return to the Windows Update web page to download any remaining updates.  Repeat any of the above steps as necessary.  When Windows Update has completed checking for required updates, you will see a list of Critical security updates your computer needs.  Click INSTALL to begin the installation process.
   
    
8. At some point during the install process, you may be prompted with a message similar to the one below.  Click I ACCEPT to any of these messages.
   
    
9. You will see the following screen as each individual update is downloaded. 
   
    
10. After all updates have been downloaded, installation of the updates will start.
    
     
11. After all updates have been successfully installed you will be prompted to restart your computer.  Make sure that any applications you have opened have been closed and you have saved all work before clicking RESTART NOW.
    
12.  Your computer is now up-to-date.