Verifying Automatic Updates Settings in Windows XP

1. Click the Start menu button, right-click My Computer, and click Properties.
    
2. In the System Properties window, select the Automatic Updates tab.
    
3. Under the Automatic Updates tab, verify that the Keep my computer up to date check box is selected.
    
4. Select Automatically download the updates, and install them on the schedule that I specify, select the time that you would like for the installation to take place, and click OK.
   
   
   

Updating Your Computer with Automatic Updates in Windows XP

1. Now, when Microsoft releases a Critical Update that is necessary to protect the security of your computer, the Automatic Updates utility will automatically install the updates at the time that you specified. You will then be prompted to restart your computer.
    
2. If your computer is not turned on during this time, the next time that you turn on your computer, the Automatic Updates icon will appear in the toolbar beside your clock, and a popup message will let you know that there are Critical Updates available for your computer.
    
3. Click the Automatic Updates icon, and click Install.
    
4. When the updates have installed, you will be prompted to save your work. Do so, then click OK to restart your computer.