Is it necessary to install every Windows update?

Around a billion devices worldwide run on the Windows 10 operating system, with many more still using older versions of this widely used software. To keep these devices running smoothly, Microsoft regularly releases updates to fix bugs, introduce new features, or most importantly, safeguard computers from security flaws exploited by malicious hackers.

But is it essential to install every single update, or can some be skipped?

The simple answer is yes, you should install all updates.

In a statement sent via email, Microsoft explained that Windows updates keep your system up-to-date with new features and security patches. They claim this is the best way to ensure users are running the most secure and optimal version of Windows. Additionally, Microsoft asserts that installing these updates helps prevent data loss and information theft, along with a variety of other potential issues.

While it’s no surprise Microsoft emphasizes this, computer experts also agree on the importance of installing these updates.

"[Are they] necessary for Windows to function? Not usually. Necessary to prevent unauthorized access to your computer by exploiting flaws in Microsoft software? Yes, usually," wrote Tim Fisher in Lifewire. "Most updates that install automatically on most computers, often on Patch Tuesday, are security patches designed to fix recently discovered vulnerabilities. These should be installed to protect your system from attacks."

Windows checks for updates once a day, though new ones are rare. However, on the second Tuesday of every month (known as "Patch Tuesday"), Microsoft releases a cumulative update that includes all the latest fixes. These significant updates require a restart of your computer to complete the process.

Microsoft is particularly proud of its automatic update feature, which ideally downloads and installs updates while you're not in the middle of a busy work session. However, you can also schedule these updates to occur at a time that's more convenient for you.

Go to Settings and select Update & Security. You'll immediately see if updates are available, and you can also check your update history. Click on Advanced Options to adjust when updates are downloaded and installed.

What to Do When Updates Fail

It's understandable if you're reluctant to install an update, especially when your computer seems to be working perfectly fine. Updates can take time and use up bandwidth to download and install. Plus, sometimes they end up causing more problems than they fix.

An April 2020 update, KB4541335, rendered many users' computers almost unusable until they managed to roll back and remove the troublesome code. Another update from February 2020 wreaked havoc on numerous systems before Microsoft pulled it — permanently — from their download sites.

Microsoft prioritizes updates based on their significance. If you see an update labeled "critical," it's essential to install it as soon as possible.

For instance, in March 2020, Microsoft issued an urgent update to protect users from serious security vulnerabilities. Without this update, they warned, a hacker could potentially take control of your computer.

In cases like these, it's crucial to install updates right away. The same applies to other updates that Microsoft categorizes as critical.

However, for some users, it's wise to approach updates more carefully. Begin by creating a recovery drive as a precaution, so you have a backup in case an update process goes wrong.