Windows Update is the online extension of Windows that helps you get the most out of your computer. This is a catalog of items such as drivers, patches, the latest help files, and Internet products that you can download to keep your computer up to date. It is necessary to correct errors that Microsoft has detected. Please note that though this guide uses Windows 2000 as an example, the process will be similar, if not identical, in other versions of Windows.

2) Type in the address bar: windowsupdate.microsoft.com

3) If you see a link which says 'Scan for Updates' then click this link. If you do not see it immediately, please wait a few minutes and you will be prompted to accept something from Microsoft, when you are click 'Yes'. After clicking 'Yes' the download 'Scan for Updates' link should appear.

4) After it completes scanning, click on the left navigation bar where it says 'Critical Updates'.

5) Click the button labeled 'Install Now'.

6) Some updates must be installed in a certain order, for this reason you must return to this site after installing, scan again and confirm that there are no more critical updates for you you to install. Check back at Windows Update on a monthly basis to insure you have the latest patches!

7) You may now try going to Windows Update by clicking here.