Updating

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Updating Programs

Keeping all of your programs up to date can be a real challenge, but there are many worthwhile reasons to do this. Often, after a program is released, the company realizes that it is not perfect and offers free updates or patches. Also the development of new software or hardware by one company can cause another company to update their software so that the two can work together.

The Internet has made it much easier to keep your programs current. To keep Windows and Internet Explorer up to date visit http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/ Click on product updates and the site can analyze what software you have and what updates you need. Follow the instructions to download and install all critical updates (they will be listed as critical updates). Windows XP can (and should) be set to automatically download and notify you of updates.

Other programs can often be updated by using an update feature built into the program. QuickBooks and Quicken have this convenient feature. In most cases you will need to select this item from the menu bar within the program and follow the instructions.

Virus scanning programs have features built in to help you update the virus data files. It is critical that this be done frequently as new viruses are being written all the time!

Programs that do not have a feature built in to "check for updates" can be a little more difficult. In this case you will need to visit the companies website to check for updates.

Another very useful tool is CatchUp http://updates.zdnet.com/ This site has several features including a free option to scan your PC and tell you which software has updates available and how to get them. This is much quicker and easier than plodding through each manufacturers website one at a time. You will be surprised at how many programs show up with updates!

What version do I have?

In the program that you are wondering about click Help on the menu bar and then select About. A screen will pop up that shows the version number.

When should I update?

It is always wise to review the information on why the update was created. All Windows critical updates should be installed, with other programs whether there will be a direct benefit to you depends on the reason for the update.