Do I really need "Windows XP - Softwhare Updates" on my computer?

Question

Ive had alot of computer problems, and it's cost my mom around $400. So, since it last came back from the shop, ive made it a point to clean it out at least every 2 weeks. And I come accross the "Windows XP - Softwhare Updates" and always wonder what it is.

And Ideas? Thanks :]

Answer 1

Yep, you need 'em. Your computer should be checking for and downloading updates to it's operating system (in your case Windows XP) every time it's scheduled to do so. It's like vaccinations against virus threats and malware attack points as well as improvements to the way your software works. It's best to set your OS to download automatically so you won't have to remember to do it.

Answer 2

If they are already there, do not delete them. These are automatic updates that come from microsoft. Once the are installed, leave them alone unless you want more problems. It is not 100% necessary to keep downloading them, this was probably done by the repair shop. Wont hurt anything either. I do updates once a week. Every once in a while, I will have one hose my pc. A simple "system restore" will usually fix that.

Answer 3

I download the updates and I get no problems. However after you do security downloads check your firewall settings because the downloads sometimes reset it to default settings if the download reboots your computer.

You should be running one decent antivirus program (only one or they get into conflicts) and a good antispyware program.

Answer 4

It is softwere. Now if you have ms office you can use it. it updates app from microsoft. IT is just like windows updates. if your computer is working fine dont change somthing your not shure about. When windows vista came out i got it and found out it did not work so what i am saying if it works fine leave it. Have fun on your computer

Answer 5

Unless something significantly changed by Microsoft,

I would not download updates

It's just waste of memory, download them manually only

Go to control panel then system and choose the option download the updates and let me choose to install them!

Answer 6

Generally the software updates are to cover security problems. It is a good idea to download and keep them.

Answer 7

You should have asked Microsoft :)



http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/downloads/updates/default.mspx

Answer 8

security and so forth i dont download them you also get windows trying to make sure that all of your software is legal and will download software on the pc i dont and mine is fine