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    Windows Guides
    Intermediate
    2 min read 6 stepsFebruary 1, 2026Verified February 2026

    How to Update Windows

    Keep your PC secure and running smoothly by installing the latest Windows updates.

    In this guide (6 steps):

    1. 1.Open Windows Update
    2. 2.Check for updates
    3. 3.Download and install
    4. 4.Restart when prompted
    5. 5.Manage update settings
    6. 6.Important: Install updates before June 2026
    1

    Open Windows Update

    ~15s
    Go to SettingsWindows Update to check for available updates.
    2

    Check for updates

    ~15s
    Click "Check for updates." Windows will search for and list any available updates.

    Quick Tip

    Check for updates at least once a week, or enable automatic updates so you never need to remember.

    3

    Download and install

    ~15s
    Click "Download & install" for any pending updates. Some install automatically.

    Warning

    Make sure your PC is plugged into power before installing a major update. If it loses power during installation, it could cause serious problems.

    4

    Restart when prompted

    ~15s
    Many updates require a restart. Save your work and click "Restart now" or schedule a restart time.

    Warning

    Postponing restarts for too long leaves your PC vulnerable. Updates only fully install after a restart.

    5

    Manage update settings

    ~15s
    Set active hours so Windows won't restart during your work time. Pause updates for up to 5 weeks if needed.

    Quick Tip

    If updates keep failing, visit support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/fix-windows-update-issues — Microsoft's official guide to fixing stuck or failed Windows updates.

    6

    Important: Install updates before June 2026

    ~24s
    Microsoft has warned that some security certificates built into Windows 11 will expire in June 2026. If you have not run Windows Update before then, your PC may have trouble starting correctly. Run Windows Update now and make sure automatic updates are turned on.

    Warning

    This is one of the rare cases where skipping updates can cause your PC to stop working properly. Run Windows Update today if you have not done so recently.

    You Did It!

    You've completed: How to Update Windows

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    intermediate
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    updates
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    Official Resources

    Microsoft SupportHow-To Geek — WindowsGCFGlobal — Windows Basics

    Sources used to create and verify this guide. View all sources →

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    How to Update Windows — Step-by-Step Guide | TekSure