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Randy

Windows Updates – why bother?

Updated: May 14, 2021

Almost every piece of technology that can connect to the internet does connect to the internet. PCs, laptops, tablets, and phones are the usual suspects, but many more devices also update and upgrade via the internet. And this does not include all the applications you purchase or are part of the OS - think Microsoft Word and any antivirus.


The information below is for Windows devices primarily, but the truths are universal. Please check back for more device-specific posts.


A security vulnerability that affects Windows computers running on Intel or AMD processors could give an attacker access to your passwords, private conversations, and any other information within the operating system kernel memory.

“Criminals with knowledge of these attacks would have the power to uncover the most vital, best-protected information of both companies and private individuals around the world, and the corresponding power to steal, blackmail, sabotage and spy,” Gavin Hill, vice-president for data center and network security products at Bitdefender warned.


How often does Windows Update check for new updates?

You can always check for updates manually via Windows Update, but it does happen automatically every day. (Technically, Windows Update checks for updates randomly, every 17 to 22 hours.) NOTE: Restarts can be scheduled.

Why randomly? Microsoft realized that millions of computers checking for updates at the same time might bring their servers down. Spreading the checks out over some time helps prevent that from happening.

If you are unsure or want your settings checked, Tech by Randy will preform a FREE 15-min remote access verification.


Are the updates that show up in Windows Update necessary?

It depends on the kind of update you’re talking about and what you mean by necessary.

Necessary for Windows to function? No, not usually.

Necessary to prevent unauthorized users from exploiting flaws in Microsoft software to access your computer? Yes, usually.

The updates that, on most computers, install automatically on “Patch Tuesday” are security-related patches designed to plug recently discovered security holes. Installation is a necessity if you want to keep your computer safe from intrusion.


Who would want to break into my computer? I don’t have anything anyone could want.

No, you probably don’t have missile launch codes, a copy of Google’s search algorithm, or a secret Star Wars script, but that doesn’t mean your information, or your actual computer, isn’t valuable for someone with malicious intent.

Even if you have never stored or inputted your bank account information, social security number, credit card number, address, phone number, medical history, etc., on your computer — there’s plenty to want on anyone’s internet-connected computer.

Breaking into your email, for example, gives a spammer or malware author access to potentially thousands of email addresses. Imagine if an open security issue allowed someone scanning for holes just enough access to your computer to install a keylogger. That would give the individual at the receiving end access to everything you ever type on your keyboard.

Often, a computer itself is just as valuable as the information on it. Suppose a hacker can install a specific program on your computer silently. In that case, you could become one more computer among millions of other drone computers, doing the bidding of their master. Frequently used to take down high-profile business and government websites, it is called a DDoS attack. A second possibility is crypto mining – they can make money harnessing the power of your laptop.

So, while it might be annoying to install a pile of updates, it is a step you must do. Starting with Windows 10 recent patch, updates install much more regularly than on Patch Tuesday, and usually with much less trouble.

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