14 DAY TRIAL // If you think that Windows Live OneCare has been misbehaving on your copy of Windows machine and that the security solution has been tampering with the settings of your operating system, and suspect foul play, then you might as well know that this is not the case. Not even close. Microsoft addressed feedback reporting that OneCare managed to modify Windows Update settings in such a manner as to take the user out of the patching equation and to permit the automatic downloading and deployment of important updates. User input received by the Redmond company pointed to the fact that important updates generated computer reboots following the installation process, in contradiction with the configuration set up for Windows Update. Microsoft explained that this is nothing more than the "natural" behavior of Windows Live OneCare.
"In the first OneCare boot experience we have gone to great lengths to disclose that OneCare may automatically effect changes to user settings in order to help best protect the user. When you first install Windows Live OneCare, setup informs you that if you choose to proceed your computer settings will be changed to automatically download and install important updates from Microsoft Update (a Microsoft service that provides software updates for Windows components and other Microsoft programs). You may still choose whether or not to install recommended and optional updates," revealed a member of the Windows Live OneCare team.
According to Microsoft, OneCare's behavior is by design, and has no additional explanation or catalyst. In the Redmond company's vision of protection, the automation of the updating process is a plus, and as such, OneCare's close integration with Microsoft Update only comes to benefit the end user. In fact, OneCare will not just make sure that the machine is up to date with the latest refreshes from Microsoft, but will also check in during Tune-up in order to identify any missing updates. "If any missing updates are found, or if your computer's Automatic Updates settings get changed, you receive an "Action to Take", helping you to correct the problem", added the member of the Windows Live OneCare team.