What are updates?

Applies to all editions of Windows Vista. Which edition of Windows Vista am I using?

Updates are additions to software that can prevent or fix problems, enhance the security of the computer, or improve the computer's performance. We strongly recommend that you turn on Windows automatic updating so that Windows can install security and other important or recommended updates for your computer as they become available.

Many software publishers notify you when an update or new version of a program is available. To see if you can sign up for product support services or set a program to automatically install updates, check the program's help or visit the software publisher's website.

See also

• Turn automatic updating on or off
• How can I tell if my computer is up to date?
• Updates: frequently asked questions