Automatic updates

[johntywino]

I run Norton Internet Security 2010,so DO NOT have switched on "Automatic updates" is this the right thing to do? Every time I had it switched on in the past it downloaded something that took ages and ages to do, then the computer just wouldnt work and I had to reset to an earlier time. In the end I just got fed up and switched it off, thinking I have plenty of security with Norton (and Trusteer Rapport). Any advice? Thanks, John

[johntywino]

What caused the actual problem was a "service pack" I can,t remember what it was now though. John

[VHG]

Are these automatic updates for Norton or Windows ?

Norton updates should not take too long.

Some Windows updates can take a long time (if it is a large Windows service pack).

In either case, I would set automatic updates to ON, then let them run (maybe all evening if needs be). Go and watch a film or something.

Note after you reboot it can take time to "sort out" these updates so after a reboot leave the laptop for say 10 minutes to sort itself out.

Note after a large Windows service pack is installed it may be that MORE updates need to be downloaded after you reboot (to go on top of the service pack).

So you need to have a bit of patience to allow these multiple updates to install.

As I said, I would do this when you are say watching a film. Leave it running during the evening and just check the laptop every now and again that it is not waiting for some input from you.

[VHG]

One thing I have found is that sometimes Windows is waiting for you to hit OK on a window, but the window is hidden under then main window.

If you think the computer has not done anything for a while minimize the main window (dont close it, just minimise it) and check there is not a smaller window underneath waiting for your input.

This caught me a out a few months agom, I sat there for ages waiting for an update to install and all the time is was waiting for me to press OK on a hidden window.

[VHG]

One final thing, it is VERY important to have all your Windows updates installed and your Windows up to date.

Many of the problems fixed by Windows updates are security updates, and because Microsoft always announce details of the problems they are fixing, many hackers write virues that purposly exploit these security gaps.

It does not matter how good your security software is, if your Windows is not fully up to date you are leaving yourself wide open to some sort of attack.

So set Autiomatic Updates to ON for Windows Updates.

[johntywino]

Thanks VHG, I'll risk it again.The point was I'm not BOTHERED how long the updates take as I'm usually doing something else, it's just that it kept downloading this particular service pack and afterwards the computer just froze up!. The only way to get it back working was factory reset or set to earlier date. John

[AlBags]

Keep on auto .. or do manually every month.