Installing programs while Windows Update is running.

Is it possible to install other programs while Windows updates are downloading/installing? Or, is this not recommended?

I'm asking this because all of these years, I have had windows update set to "Install updates automatically," and I believe there were definitely times where I've installed programs while windows update was doing its thing in the background. Is this the way it's supposed to be or is this not recommended? I mean, the common rule is when one program is installing, another program won't. Why isn't this the same for Windows updates?

Well yes you can I have but I prefer to let the updates run first and I prefer to pick the ones I want not just let the stuff go auto. Plus I do them in small batches where possible.

You have to remember too that updating and downloading apps is going to put a load on the modem download speed too.

Now as I said I do the initial updates then get my security downloaded to Downloads (I like mine on the desktop) set my email and then install the security then do the rest. I reckon it is safer that way.

Just to amplify a bit on Icit2lol's response....

Most installers nowadays use one of a number of installation engines (MSI, InstallShield, etc.) Windows Updates uses mostly MSU packages, which use a different installation method, and can run concurrently with many of the others.

Having said that, there is no problem at all with installing programs which WU is downloading - but I do always try to avoid concurrent installations, as things like Restore Points may get confusing, or missed.
Generally, if there are other downloads occurring at the same time, WU will throttle back on its bandwidth usage anyhow, and pick up again when the bandwidth again becomes available, as it has a deliberately low priority compared to user-initiated transfers.

HTH