After choosing how Windows can install updates in the Control Panel/All CPI/Windows Update/Change Settings window to:"Check for updates but let me choose whether to download and install them"when will Windows 7 Pro check for updates; and how and when will it notify the computer user?
Last edited by TomBrooklyn; 16 May 2013 at 18:10. Reason: spelling correction
I don't know when it checks, but when there are new updates, it will place an icon in the Notification Area with a little "balloon" telling you that updates are available. This gives you the option to click that so that you can go find out which updates are available and you also have the ability to decide which updates, if any, you want to download and install.
If it wanted to check for updates while you have your computer off, then it would check as soon as you turn it back on.
I feel that you are considering the very best setting for Windows Update because it puts you in the "driver's seat".
Windows routinely attempts to check for updates at every boot, and every (I think) 24 hours thereafter.
I don't believe that Microsoft has ever documented exactly when Windows checks for updates. I suspect that a number of factors (undocumented, so don't ask) are considered.
There is a great deal about Windows that is not publicly documented. Once something is documented application developers will take advantage of it and Microsoft is then compelled to support the behavior indefinitely. Changing documented behavior often leads to compatibility problems.
OK. Thanks. I had Windows set before so it was rebooting my computer on me without asking permission, so at least I got rid of that obnoxious nonsense.
Just an additional FYI from the "Update Services Privacy Statement":
SourceRequired Updates
If you turn on the Update Services, in order for them to properly function some software components on your system that make up or are directly related to the Update Services will need to be updated from time to time. These updates must be performed before the service can check for, download, or install other updates. These required updates fix errors, provide ongoing improvements, and maintain compatibility with the Microsoft servers that support the service. If the Update Services are turned off, you will not receive these updates.
Choice and control
If you turn on the Update Services, regardless of which setting you have chosen, required updates to some components of the service will be downloaded and installed automatically without further notice to you. If you would prefer not to receive required updates, turn off the Update Services.
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