Automatic updates in Windows XP ensure that your computer is always current. Windows XP checks Windows Update for the latest updates whenever you are on the Internet, determines which updates apply to your computer, and downloads them in the background while you keep working or playing. If you prefer, you can have the computer continue notifying you with automatic balloon message reminders about updates. ItÂ’s up to you! Here’s how.

To turn automatic updates on or off

1. Click Start, click Control Panel, click Performance and Maintenance, and then click System.
2. On the Automatic Updates tab, click the setting of your choice.

Note   If you choose not to use automatic updating, you can install specific updates from the Windows Update Web site whenever you like.

Tip taken from Microsoft Windows XP Inside Out by Ed Bott and Carl Siechert. Published by Microsoft Press.