Automatic Updates
Applies To: Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2003 R2, Windows Server 2003 with SP1, Windows Server 2003 with SP2
Windows Automatic Updates
Windows can keep your computer up-to-date automatically with the latest updates and enhancements. You do not need to search for critical updates and information because Windows delivers them directly to your computer. Windows recognizes when you are online and uses your Internet connection to search for downloads from the Windows Update Web site. An icon appears in the notification area each time new updates are available.
Difference between Windows Update and Automatic Updates
Windows Update and Automatic Updates are two separate components designed to work together to keep Windows secure. Windows Update is Microsoft-owned Web site from which Windows users can download critical and non-critical software. Automatic Updates enables you to automatically interact with the Windows Update Web site to obtain the critical software updates. These items include security fixes, critical updates, and critical drivers. You have full control over the level of this interaction. For example, you could choose to automatically download and install updates as they become available, or simply be notified when new updates become available.
For tips about using Automatic Updates, see Best practices for Automatic Updates.
For help with specific tasks, see Automatic Updates How to....
For general background information, see Automatic Updates Concepts.