How to Update Your Computer: A Simple Guide That Works

Keeping your computer updated is one of the simplest ways to improve security, fix software problems, and keep your system compatible with newer applications. However, updating a computer is not always as simple as clicking “Install.”

Major operating system updates can affect software, drivers, storage space, and device settings. Preparing your computer before an update and checking everything afterward can help prevent unnecessary problems.

Whether you use a Windows PC or a Mac, this guide explains how to update your computer safely, what to check before starting, and what to do if an update fails.

Why You Should Keep Your Computer Updated

Operating system and software updates often include security patches, bug fixes, performance improvements, and compatibility updates.

Security updates are particularly important because they can address vulnerabilities that attackers may use to compromise a device. Delaying critical updates can therefore leave your computer exposed to known security problems.

Updates can also resolve issues with applications, hardware, connectivity, and system performance. Keeping your operating system and regularly used software current can reduce compatibility problems as newer versions of applications are released.

For businesses, keeping computers updated is even more important because outdated systems can create security and productivity risks across an entire organization. Archer IT Solutions provides Managed IT Services to help businesses monitor, maintain, and secure their technology infrastructure.

What to Do Before Updating Your Computer

Before installing a major update, take a few minutes to prepare your computer. This is especially important if you use the device for work or store important files locally.

Back Up Important Files

A system update should not normally delete your personal files, but unexpected problems can occur. A backup gives you an additional layer of protection if something goes wrong.

You can back up important information using:

• An external hard drive or SSD
• Cloud storage
• Windows backup tools
• Apple’s Time Machine
• Your organization’s backup system

For business computers, important files should ideally be included in a properly managed backup system rather than relying solely on a user’s personal copy.

Check Available Storage

Large operating system updates can require several gigabytes of free storage. If your drive is almost full, the update may fail or become difficult to install.

Before updating, remove unnecessary temporary files, empty the Recycle Bin, and move large files to external or cloud storage if necessary.

Connect Your Laptop to Power

If you are updating a laptop, connect the charger before starting.

A computer losing power during a major system update can cause installation problems and, in some cases, prevent the operating system from starting correctly.

Check Your Internet Connection

Most operating system updates require an internet connection to download the necessary files.

Use a stable connection and avoid starting a large update when your internet service is unreliable or you are working with a limited data allowance.

Check Your Important Applications

Businesses should pay particular attention to software compatibility before installing major operating system upgrades.

Check applications such as:

• Accounting software
• VPN clients
• Printers and scanners
• Business management systems
• Security software
• Specialized industry applications
• Older programs that may not support newer operating systems

If your business depends on an application every day, verify compatibility before upgrading the operating system.

Pre-Update Checklist

For additional guidance, Windows users can consult Microsoft Support, while Mac users can find official update information through Apple Support.

How to Update a Windows Computer

Microsoft provides Windows Update through the operating system’s Settings application.

The exact menu names can vary depending on your version of Windows, but the general process is:

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Windows Update.
3. Select Check for updates.
4. Review the available updates.
5. Download and install the appropriate updates.
6. Restart the computer when prompted.
7. Check Windows Update again after restarting to make sure there are no remaining updates.

Windows may require several restarts during a major update. This is normal. Allow the computer to complete each stage instead of interrupting the process.

If Windows reports that an update failed, note the error message or error code before attempting more advanced troubleshooting.

How to Update a Mac

On newer versions of macOS, software updates are managed through System Settings.

The general process is:

1. Open System Settings.
2. Select General.
3. Choose Software Update.
4. Allow the Mac to check for available updates.
5. Review the available update.
6. Select the option to update or upgrade.
7. Keep the Mac connected to power and allow the installation to finish.

Older versions of macOS may use slightly different menus, so check Apple Support if the options on your Mac look different.

Install Updates From Official Sources

Always use the operating system’s built-in update tools or the software manufacturer’s official website.

Be cautious when a website, pop-up, or unexpected email tells you that your computer needs an urgent update. Fake update notifications are sometimes used to distribute malware.

For example, a browser pop-up claiming that your computer is infected and asking you to download an “urgent security update” should not be trusted automatically. Close the page and check for updates directly through your computer’s settings.

This is particularly important for business users, where a single malicious download can potentially affect other devices connected to the network.

What Happens During a Computer Update?

During an update, your computer may download installation files, replace system components, configure new features, restart several times, and perform background setup tasks.

The process can take anywhere from a few minutes to considerably longer depending on:

• The size of the update
• Your internet speed
• Your computer’s hardware
• Available storage
• The type of update
• The number of applications and drivers installed

Do not assume that an update has failed simply because the progress appears slow.

If the computer is still showing signs of activity or displaying an installation message, give it time to complete.

What to Do After Updating

Once your computer has restarted, don’t immediately assume everything is working correctly.

Take a few minutes to test the functions you rely on most.

Check:

• Internet connectivity
• Email
• Web browsers
• Printers and scanners
• Microsoft Office applications
• Business software
• VPN connections
• Antivirus or security software
• External devices
• Audio and video

You should also return to the update settings and check for additional updates. Some systems install updates in stages, meaning another restart or update may be required.

Common Computer Update Problems and Solutions

The Update Is Taking Too Long

Large operating system updates can take time, particularly on older computers.

If the system is still displaying progress or showing signs of activity, avoid immediately forcing a shutdown.

If the computer appears completely frozen for an extended period, consult the operating system manufacturer’s troubleshooting guidance before interrupting the installation.

There Is Not Enough Storage

If an update cannot install because there is insufficient storage:

1. Remove temporary files.
2. Empty the Recycle Bin.
3. Uninstall applications you no longer use.
4. Move large files to external or cloud storage.
5. Run the update again.

An Application Stops Working After an Update

First, check whether the application has a newer version available.

You may also need to update related drivers or reinstall the application. For business-critical software, contact the software provider before attempting major changes.

A Printer Stops Working

Operating system updates can occasionally affect printer drivers.

Check the printer manufacturer’s website for a current driver that supports your operating system. You can also remove and reinstall the printer through your computer’s settings.

The Computer Becomes Slower After an Update

A computer may temporarily run slower after an update while the operating system completes background tasks.

Restart the device and give it some time. If the slowdown continues, check available storage, startup applications, drivers, and system resource usage.

If the computer was already struggling before the update, the underlying issue may be aging hardware rather than the update itself.

Should You Install Every Update Immediately?

Not every update requires the same level of urgency.

Security updates should generally be installed promptly because they address vulnerabilities that can put your system at risk.

For major operating system upgrades, businesses may want to test the update with critical applications and devices before deploying it across every computer.

A managed IT environment can make this process easier by allowing updates to be planned, tested, scheduled, and monitored rather than leaving every employee to manage updates independently.

Automatic Updates vs Manual Updates

For a business with several computers, managed updates can provide better consistency and visibility than relying on individual employees to keep their devices current.

When Should You Get Professional IT Support?

Updating one personal computer is usually straightforward. However, businesses with multiple devices, servers, specialized software, or remote employees may face more complicated update requirements.

Professional IT support can be useful when:

• Updates repeatedly fail
• Multiple computers experience the same problem
• Business applications stop working
• Drivers become incompatible
• Computers are too old for newer operating systems
• Updates cause network or printer problems
• You need centralized update management
• You need to upgrade an entire organization’s systems

Archer IT Solutions provides Managed IT Services and Onsite IT Support to help businesses maintain secure, reliable, and properly managed technology systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I update my computer?

Check for updates regularly and install important security updates as soon as practical. Many operating systems can automatically check for and install updates.

What should I do before updating my computer?

Back up important files, check available storage, connect your laptop to power, make sure your internet connection is stable, and verify that critical applications are compatible with the update.

Can updating my computer delete my files?

Normal operating system updates are designed to preserve personal files, but unexpected problems can occur. Always maintain a current backup before major updates.

Can an update make my computer slower?

It can happen temporarily, particularly while background processes are running after installation. Persistent performance problems may indicate insufficient hardware, storage, driver issues, or another underlying problem.

Should businesses manage computer updates centrally?

For organizations with multiple computers, centralized or managed updates can improve consistency, security, and control. It also reduces the risk of employees repeatedly postponing important security updates.

What should I do if my computer fails during an update?

Avoid repeatedly forcing the computer to shut down. Check the manufacturer’s official troubleshooting guidance and record any error messages displayed. If the computer cannot recover, professional IT support may be necessary.

Keep Your Computers Updated and Secure

Updating your computer is an important part of routine maintenance. Installing security patches, keeping applications current, and maintaining updated drivers can help protect your system while reducing compatibility and performance problems.

The safest approach is to prepare before updating, use official update tools, keep your device connected to power, and test important applications after the installation.

For businesses, computer updates should be part of a wider IT maintenance and security strategy rather than something employees have to manage on their own.

If your organization needs help with computer maintenance, software updates, network infrastructure, hosting, or ongoing IT management, contact Archer IT Solutions to discuss your requirements.

External Resources

• Microsoft Support
• Apple Support