MSE Update question....

I don't use scheduled scans to get updates.

I get updates every 24 to 48 hours, never longer--regardless of scans.

On earlier versions, you could get away with no scans forever.

On the current version, if you don't scan, you will eventually get a red flag in the system tray, complaining about the lack of scans. I think it is after about 2 weeks.

So, I have set a scheduled scan to once a week. So far, I no longer get that flag.

Golden said:

Hi,

Does anyone know how frequently MSE updates its virus definitions?

I've set it to check for virus and spyware definitons prior to scheduled scans, but it isn't clear to me whether it checks and updates definitions at any other time.

I've had a look through the MSE help, but can't find any information on this.

Can anyone shed light on this?

Regards,
Golden

In my experience updates become available generally 3 times a day at 0540,1340, 2140 UK GMT time. I do a manual check if I am working in the office at the two latter times and updates are generally available like clock work, try a couple of minutes earlier and there is no update.

Robert

Golden said:

Hi,

Does anyone know how frequently MSE updates its virus definitions?

Regards,
Golden

I have Windows Updates turned off and I do not have MSE set to run scheduled scans. I prefer to check for updates manually throughout the day. Based on my observations MSE is updated at least twice a day. New definitions are available between 1am - 5am Central Standard Time (in Texas) and again usually between noon and 4pm CST. Occasionally there will be a third update available between 8pm and 11pm but this is the exception rather than the norm. I once sent an email to the MMPC and they confirmed definitions are sent out at least twice a day, including weekends. But the couldn't (or wouldn't) say how long it takes for Windows Updates to get the new definitions and automatically install them.

I never check manually.

Updates are forced on me via Windows Update every 36 hours, give or take 12.

Golden said:

Thanks Robert. I wonder what happens if you aren't logged in at those times, and neglect to do do a manual update? I guess it waits until the next re-occurence of those times?

An update at bootup seems feasible, but it would be nice to have a confirmation that this is what is actually happening.

Regards
Golden

If I am not here to check then the machines pick up an update with microsoft updates, so I get at least 1 update every 24 hours and the machines also do a daily scan in the night and it will check for an update then before it scans.

Robert