Aqua-Soft ForumsWhat do you guys think on the matter of installing every single update that microsoft puts out for windows and its related components? With the release of the variety of viruses, it seems like the smartest thing to do, however does it have any adverse effects (like overall OS slowdown and more errors). On my former computer, I used to leave the auto update on and install everything it liked, but I ran into many errors and wierd dialouge boxes I had never seen before. Right now, I'm running a copy of Windows XP Home SP1 with zone alarm and norton antivirus running in the background, does it still seem necessary to install every update even with this much protection? Could it even improve performance? Thoughts?
To Update Or Not To Update
You do need the updates, see Windows is not the most secure thing int he world. The problems that you are having are not because of the updates, I worked with a number of systems and mainly in all case's I did all the updates and have no problems. Windows is really going through flame, there are some major security problems so I do suggest you get the updates.
good question, and the issue is a delicate one because new patches fix holes and problems, but they can also bring up new problems, and sometimes, the patches are poor (e.g. 811493).
i turned off the autoupdate because i like to know which files i'm actually getting. plus it saves some resources.
back to the question, what i do is keep my firewall on and my av up-to-date, but i don't get the patches right away. i usually wait and see other people's responses first, and then update. usually patches will do more good than harm, so you should update.
as for getting every single update, i suggest you use your judgment. security updates, yes. drivers? probably not. .net developer's update or whatever? if you don't need it, then no.
hummer017, my advice is to turn off the auto update feature to take control of what's getting downloded and installed.
As for the windows updates it self... well from my experience with my xp pro system, the updates have been always good to me to be honest.
Just as an examples my IE and OE loads much "much" faster now.
I tend to install all updates, except few as .NET Framework and that journal thingy...
As for loading your system with zonealarm and av programs... Well i don't do that, i check my pc on monthly span with nav and i don't use firewalls.
imo the whole virus, hacking hazards are over rated.