Overview
Windows updates are necessary to keep the operating system secure, updates may be small and address minor known vulnerabilities and they may be large to improve or add functionality, features, or in preparation for a significant operating system change. Information Services tests and pushes out Windows Updates on a routine basis, when updates are available you will receive a prompt on your workstation. Certain updates are required in preparation for Windows 11, Microsoft's newest operating system upgrade, information on acquiring these updates can be found below.
Details / Instructions
Information Services tests and pushes out Windows Updates to University-owned Windows devices automatically, however there are certain situations where the devices may not acquire the update, including if the system is not on the network or is not turned on frequently enough to allow the update(s) to update/install. We recommend checking updates periodically to ensure your system is up-to-date and secure.
How to check/obtain Windows & Microsoft Updates
- Click the Start button.
- Click on Settings or the Settings icon
- Select Update and Security.
- Select Advanced Options and select Receive updates for other Microsoft products when you update Windows
- Select the back button at the top left
- Select Check online for updates from Microsoft Update or Check for updates.
- Windows will download and install any updates that are needed. The system may restart one or more times, some updates may take 30 minutes to install.
Installing Updates while working remotely
Information Services needs to continue the process of applying patches and critical updates to UR computer assets for computers that are being used on or off campus. Remember that a computer that is patched and updated on a regular basis helps to protect you against vulnerabilities.
If you work remotely, your system will still receive updates even if you are not connected to VPN (Cisco AnyConnect). These updates may be slower to download / install compared to colleagues on-campus due to network speeds and availability.
You may also follow the instructions above (How to check/obtain Windows & Microsoft Updates) to update Windows/Microsoft updates manually This will apply the OS updates directly from Microsoft. We recommend frequently checking updates on your personal system(s) as well.
If you need technical support please contact Help Desk at 804-287-6400, by email at helpdesk@richmond.edu or by submitting a self-service ticket through SpiderTechNet.
See Also
How to check & install Lenovo Updates: https://spidertechnet.richmond.edu/TDClient/1955/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=104650
How to prepare for Windows 11 (checking and installing Windows version 22H2): https://spidertechnet.richmond.edu/TDClient/1955/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=133667
Windows Update: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/update-windows-3c5ae7fc-9fb6-9af1-1984-b5e0412c556a