Insight into Windows Update for Vista and XP

Microsoft is continuously tending to its Windows client and server operating systems ensuring not only that the rough edges of the products are softened, but also dealing with security vulnerabilities, and securing the overall evolution in addition to service pack releases. In this context, Windows Update plays a key role in keeping the Windows platforms up to date on individual ones, with Microsoft also offering Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) as a solution designed to manage groups of machines across networks.

“We’ve all heard about or even experienced the havoc that computer viruses and other malicious software can cause to PCs and computer networks. Computer hackers are constantly trying to find ways to attack networks and computers with the intent of committing fraud and other crimes. When they succeed, individuals and enterprises can lose a great deal of time and money. In spite of their high cost and the headaches they cause, many security breaches are easily avoidable. The security fixes are available, but users don’t get them installed quickly enough (or at all),” reveals a fragment of the Windows Update Explained whitepaper.

The documentation focuses on Windows Vista and Windows XP in relation to Windows Update, but at the same time, Microsoft explains the purpose and functionality of Windows Server Update Services. WSUS, designed as an add-on for the Windows Server operating, is set up to integrate with Active Directory group policy in order to permit system administrators to handle the updating process for computers connected to a network.

“During the updating process, the Windows Update client operates in the background to download and install updates. (The Windows Update client is the Windows Update component running on your PC.) It does this automatically, according to your settings, and in a 'silent' manner that doesn’t disrupt your computer usage,” Microsoft added.