How Windows Update Keeps Itself Up-to-Date
Two things: One, I’m not going to jump into a “switch to Linux” spiel (although you really should give Ubuntu a try!). And two, having said that, I’m also going to restate that I’m not a fan of Microsoft. So if you find my thoughts biased and non-objective (I guess that’s redundant ;-), you have been warned.
Windows has an automatic update option. I have done some work for some decidedly non-technical types and have turned this feature on for them. That’s because if you don’t know or care what WGA is, you might as well keep your system updated automatically, as it should lessen your chances of getting hacked.
But a large percentage of Windows users choose to either approve any updates before they are installed, or turn off the service entirely. You can go to the Windows Update website and be scanned there for missing updates. Or a better solution is Windiz Updates, which don’t require Internet Explorer. Google it for more info.
They make that decision for many reasons, but one of the commonest is because Microsoft will install WGA if you don’t say no. WGA is a program that scans your system, and if it decides it’s pirated, will either notify you or shut features down. In other words it does YOU absolutely no good whatsoever, but benefits MICROSOFT.
With that being said, many Windows users have been outraged to find that Windows Updates have made changes to their systems even if they told the program not to do so!
When word hit the web, Microsoft attempted to explain their rationale on today’s FamilyFirst site. So you get their side of the story. But by all means, read the comments from users who are not satisfied with the explanation.
Ah, it feels good to see the tide of public opinion turn against Microsoft. Open-source truly rules.
Click here
