How to Update Windows 10 & 11 (Manual & Auto)

If you wish to keep your device up-to-date and secure, you must know how to update Windows. Downloading and installing them gives you the latest fixes and security updates. This way, your device will run efficiently while keeping it protected. This article will cover the steps to update Windows 10 and 11, manually and automatically. We’ll try to cover all the questions related to the update, so you can update without hassle.

How to Perform Windows Update – Windows 10 and 11?

Check out how to perform the Windows update for Windows 10 and 11, manually:

• Update Windows 10 to the Latest Version

You can decide when and how to update Windows 10 to the latest version to keep the device running smoothly:

1. Click Start, then Settings.
2. Select Update & Security, then choose Windows Update, and click Check for Windows Updates.
3. If any updates are available for your PC, hit Download & Install. This way, you can undertake Windows 10 updates installation. If you’re doing this, you can restart the device and apply the updates to take effect.

Note: Windows 10 support will end in October 2025, meaning no more free software updates after that. You won’t get any technical assistance or security fixes for Windows 10. Your PC will continue working but the recommendation is to move to Windows 11.

• Update Windows 11 to the Latest Version

Here are the steps for the manual download of Windows 11 updates:

1. Click the Start menu and hit Settings.
2. Choose the Windows Updates option, then click Check for Windows Updates.
3. Hit Download & Install if you find any updates available for your PC. You can restart your system after you download and install the computer system update.

Update the Windows Operating System Automatically

You deserve to reap the new security features and enhancements as and when they’re available. If you wish to do that, you need to change the settings to update the Windows Operating System automatically. Microsoft provides fixes, improvements, non-security updates, and enhancements via servicing technologies. It includes a Controlled Feature Rollout (CFR), giving Windows devices a new functionality rolled out gradually.

You can get the newest features and non-security updates as soon as they become available for your device:

• Windows 11

Here is what to do to update Windows laptop 11:

1. Click Start > Settings, then click Windows Update.

• Find the option Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available and switch On the toggle button.

This setting controls how quickly you receive feature updates, fixes, and improvements. However, whether it’s On or Off, you’ll still receive regular security updates as usual.

(Optional): Click Check for updates to see if any Windows 11 updates are available. If there are, Windows will download and install them without your intervention. Restart your device if you are prompted to get the updates in place.

Your device is now set to receive the latest updates as soon as they are released.

Checking Update History

• To view previous updates, hit Start > Settings > Windows Update > Update history.
• Expand the Other Updates section, and hit Learn more to see details about recent Windows configuration updates.

By enabling Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available, your device will be prioritized for new updates. However, it will still receive essential security updates as usual.

• Windows 10

Here’s how to run the automatic Windows ten update:

• Open Start > Settings. Choose Update & Security > Windows Update.
• Locate the option Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available and turn it On.

Note: Enabling this option allows your device to receive feature updates, fixes, and enhancements sooner. However, security updates will continue to be delivered automatically, whether this setting is on or off.

Optional Step: Click Check for updates to manually search for new updates. If any are found, Windows will download and install them. Restart your device if required to complete the process.

Once activated, your system will always be set to receive the newest updates without delay.

How to Review Past Updates

• Navigate to Start > Settings > Windows Update > Update history to see a record of installed updates.
• Expand the Other Updates section and click Learn More next to the latest Windows configuration update. You’ll get detailed information on recent changes.

By enabling Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available, you’ll ensure an up-to-date device with the newest features. Simultaneously, you should be still receiving important security patches as usual.

• Common Considerations for Automatic Windows Updates

Here are some details you might need for automatic update settings in Windows 10 and 11:

• Windows Update during Active Hours

Just like in previous updates, Windows respects your active hours to minimize disruptions. Cloud-enabled changes install within seconds, ensuring they don’t slow down your device or interfere with tasks. You can also schedule restarts at a convenient time.

• Enabling the Toggle

Once you switch the option On, your device will receive non-security updates, fixes, and feature enhancements as soon as they’re available. You only need to enable this setting once, but you can turn it Off anytime.

• Security Updates Continuation

Microsoft ensures that all devices receive essential security updates regardless of whether this toggle is On or Off. These updates are installed regularly to maintain system protection.

• Frequent Restarts

With this setting enabled, your device will receive updates more quickly, which may lead to more frequent restarts. These restarts are necessary to apply new features and fixes.

• Switch the Toggle Off

You can switch the toggle Off at any time. However, updates that were already installed will remain on your device.

• Managed Devices

For managed devices, administrators can control this option through the AllowOptionalContent client policy to regulate update installations.

Common Information on How to Update Microsoft Windows

Here are some common factors/ considerations/ information on how to update Microsoft Windows:

• Schedule Restarts for Updates

Windows attempts to restart your device during inactive hours to complete updates. If a restart is required at an inconvenient time, you can schedule it manually:

• Go to Start > Settings, and click Windows Update.
• Select Schedule the restart and pick a preferred time.
• Use Active Hours to prevent automatic restarts while using your device.

This way, you can prevent interference of recurring restarts during the update.

• Managing Disk Space for Updates

If you lack enough storage, try these solutions:

• Delete unnecessary files.
• Uninstall unused applications.
• Move files to an external drive or cloud storage like OneDrive.

You must have enough disk space for the update; otherwise, it will fail.

• Minimizing Battery Usage during Updates

To prevent battery drain, you can keep your laptops and tablets plugged in when not in use. Windows updates don’t consume more power than other background processes.

• Difference between Feature and Quality Updates

If you’re wondering what makes feature and quality updates different, here are the differences:

• Feature Updates: Released annually, adding new functionalities, enhancements, and security fixes. They install automatically before the previous version reaches the end of service.
• Quality Updates: Frequent updates focusing on minor fixes and security improvements, sometimes including small features.

Expand your knowledge: How to Map a Drive on Windows.

Bottom Line

We hope this article makes it easy to understand how to update Windows. We have curated every piece of information that will help you with the update process. We have also addressed some common queries or doubts you might have about the Windows update. So, carry out your updates consistently whenever they are released and enjoy the fixes and improvements. If needed, you can get in touch with experts to get their assistance for any problem.

FAQs

Why is installing Windows updates important?

You need to install Windows updates regularly as soon as they are released. It will help you secure your device and keep it running smoothly. It fixes any bugs that are affecting your existing version and introduces security improvements. You can enjoy new features and a glitch-free, smooth-running Windows.

How long does it take to install updates?

The time taken by Windows to download updates is based on specific factors. These include network settings, internet connection speed, and the size of the Windows update. You must have your device plugged in with a strong internet connection to quicken the update download and installation process.

What if my update fails to install?

If the Windows updates don’t install, you need to run the Windows Update Troubleshooter. If this doesn’t work, you can try options like restarting your system and ensuring you have enough space on your PC. Your internet connection should be strong and no third-party disturbances should interfere with the update.

Can I install optional updates?

Yes, you can install optional updates, which are called so because they are not a must to install. You have the choice to install these updates if you want to access new features and bug fixes. These updates are not necessarily to improve your system’s functionality. You can review them before you make a decision to install them.

How do I pause updates temporarily?

You can pause your Windows updates for a while by opening the Start menu and Settings. Then, choose Update & Security > Windows Update. Click Pause Updates and specify the duration for which you want to pause/ stop the updates. Depending on your Windows version, you can pause for up to a week or more at a time.

Does my PC need to restart after updates?

Yes, it would actually be better if you restart your PC after installing the updates. With a complete system reboot, all the changes apply and take effect fully. It is primarily crucial for security and driver updates actively used by running programs on the PC.

How much disk space is needed for updates?

Generally, a minimum of 6- 11 GB of free disk space is required for typical Windows feature updates. For quality updates, you may require 2-3 GB or more, depending on the size of the update. The exact disk space required will differ based on the PC and the update being installed.

Can I roll back a Windows update if it causes issues?

Yes, you can roll back/ uninstall an update if it is causing issues. You can do so via update history; however, you must know that you can’t remove all updates. Uninstalling the recent update will roll the system back to the previous version which isn’t problematic.

How do I check my update history?

You can go to update history from the Start menu and Settings. In settings, you’ll find the Windows Update option. Choose it and click Update History. You’ll see the latest Windows updates you made in this history.

Can I delay updates indefinitely?

No, you cannot stop the Windows updates indefinitely. You can put a pause on them for a temporary time. However, they will have to be restarted so you can enjoy the latest fixes, features, and top-notch security. There’s an update pause limit, after which you’ll have to download and install the updates.

Are updates free?

Yes, Windows updates are usually free. You get security improvements, bug fixes, new features, and a smooth operating system. It’s upgrades that cost you, like upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11.

What if I miss a critical security update?

If you miss a crucial security Windows update, you’ll have to bear the rough consequences. It includes exposing yourself to cyber attacks– hackers can exploit the unpatched security flaws. They can get unauthorized access to your data and system, exposing you to breaches, identity theft, ransomware attacks, etc.

How do I update Windows without an internet connection?

You should download the required Windows updates on your PC with an internet connection. Then, transfer these updates to a USB drive. From there, you can install the updates on the offline PC with the help of the “Media Creation Tool” by Microsoft.

Is it safe to use my PC during updates?

It is not at all recommended to use your computer while the Windows are updating. The reason is that your operations can interfere with the update download and installation. If interrupted, you’ll have corrupted files or system instability.

How do I enable automatic updates?

You can set up automatic Windows updates by opening the Run command. Then, type wscui.cpl, and click OK. Tap Automatic Updates. It will allow you to choose the date and time when you’d want your system to be updated. You can choose to update every day, at a specific time, or day.