How to check for and run computer updates

Overview

The easiest way to keep your computer up to date is to allow it to check for and install updates on its default schedule. If you want to manually check for updates, read on to found out how.

Steps

macOS system updates

1. Go to the Apple menu in the top left corner of your screen.
2. Select System Settings (if your computer is aware of an available update, it will show you right in the Apple menu).
3. In System Settings, under General, find Software Update.
4. Choose "Update Now" or "Update Tonight" for any pending updates.
5. Bonus: turn "Automatic Updates" on.

Windows system updates

1. Go to the Start menu in the bottom left corner of your screen.
2. Select "Settings."
3. Choose "Windows Update" at the bottom of the list on the left.
4. Select "Check for Updates."
5. Run any listed updates.

Application updates

Most applications will check for updates automatically, and the only thing preventing them from updating is that they can't update until the application is closed and re-opened. To check for updates on most applications:

1. Open the application.
2. Go to the "About (name of the app)" menu item and check for updates.
3. If there is no update information in the "About . . ." menu, check under Help.
4. Bonus: turn on automatic updates if they are not already enabled.