Windows 7: Update question

MrBuzzard · 21 Oct 2013

Hello to the forum. I would like to find out if it is possible to accumulate all the necessary updates for win 7 32 or 64 bit on a spare HD so that when my kids break something, I have the updates here ready to go. I know that was possible with earlier versions of Microsoft OS, but I have not tried it with Win 7.
What I would like to accomplish is a cache of updates (current) to have when needed, and not have to tie up my internet for hours.
Thank you for any comments or advice.

Lady Fitzgerald · 21 Oct 2013

The easiest way I know of is to make an image of the OS itself so, if the kids break something, you can restore the image, complete with OS, updates, etc. See this thread on using Macrium Reflect to make and restore images.

MrBuzzard · 06 Nov 2013

Thanks for the response. I already do that, but the problem arises when there is an equipment failure that requires hardware changes. It is almost impossible to replace a 6 month old mb with an exact replica. Haven't used Macrium Reflect, but have tried other programs plus MS own imaging program.
Love your moniker.

Lady Fitzgerald · 06 Nov 2013

Thanks! The paid version of Macrium Reflect is supposed to be capable of restoring an image to dissimilar hardware. I haven't actually done so but, considering how well Reflect does everything I've asked it to do, I'm reasonably certain it will.

Golden · 06 Nov 2013

Only the PRO version and above will restore to dissimilar hardware.

I think SiW knows how to download and install standalone updates- I'll ask him to comment.

SIW2 · 06 Nov 2013

You can d/l updates most easily with WUD Windows Updates Downloader (WUD)

If you would rather image and restore, then perhaps get a copy of this, which can make the restored image bootable on different hardware

Make Windows 7 bootable after motherboard swap

gigagiggles · 09 Nov 2013

Yes, it is possible for security updates. It is my modus operandus. After I do the monthly and the occasional out-of-cycle 'check for updates', a list will be generated. To the right is a hyperlink for 'more information'. For each security update, click on 'more information' and a webpage will show up in the browser for the particular KnowledgeBase item#. Usually, there will be another link to download the security update to save in hard drive. Alternatively, search Microsoft Download Center for the KnowledgeBase item# on the list. Then, when calamity occurs and is resolved, run 'check for updates' to generate a list. Match the list to what was downloaded and saved. Uncheck those and install the rest on the list. Then install those that were matched.