How to Check for Updates on Windows

Windows updates deliver security patches, bug fixes, and new features to keep your system running smoothly. You can check for updates manually instead of waiting for automatic downloads.

1. Open Windows Settings. Press Windows key + I to open Settings directly. Alternatively, click the Start button and select the gear icon, or right-click the Start button and choose Settings from the context menu.
2. Navigate to Windows Update. Click Update & Security in the Settings window. On Windows 11, click Windows Update from the left sidebar. The Windows Update panel displays your current update status and available options.
3. Check for updates. Click the Check for updates button. Windows will scan Microsoft's servers for available updates including security patches, driver updates, and feature updates. This process typically takes 30-60 seconds.
4. Review available updates. Windows displays any found updates with descriptions and file sizes. Updates are categorized as security updates, quality updates, feature updates, or driver updates. Click View optional updates to see additional driver and software updates.
5. Install updates. Click Download and install or Install now for required updates. Optional updates require individual selection before installation. Windows will download and install updates automatically, displaying progress percentages for each update.
6. Restart if required. Some updates require a system restart to complete installation. Windows will display a restart notification with options to restart immediately or schedule the restart. Click Restart now or select a convenient restart time.