How to Run Windows Update on a New PC

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   Open the Windows Update settings

   Press the Windows key on your keyboard and click the Settings icon, represented by a gear. In the left-hand sidebar, select Windows Update.

   Note: Ensure your device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi or Ethernet network.
2. 15 sec

   Check for available updates

   Click the blue Check for updates button located at the top of the interface. Windows will query the Microsoft servers for pending security patches and driver updates.

3. 1 min

   Download and install updates

   Once the scan completes, click Download and install all. The system will automatically begin pulling the necessary packages; progress bars will appear for each specific item.

   Note: Some updates may install in the background while others require immediate user intervention.
4. 30 sec

   Check for optional updates

   Scroll down to the Advanced options menu and select Optional updates. Expand the Driver updates category to see if any specific hardware component patches are available for your PC model.

   Note: Manufacturers often house critical firmware and hardware drivers here.
5. 1 min

   Restart the system

   After all downloads reach 100%, click the Restart now button. Do not power off your PC manually during this phase, as the system must write core files to the disk.

   Note: If a restart button is not visible, select the Power icon in the Start menu and choose Restart.