Windows Updates

Microsoft pushes out the majority of its Windows updates on the second Tuesday of each month. You can also manually check for updates on your computer.

Description

Patch Tuesday is the second Tuesday of each month, when Microsoft releases security patches and other updates for Windows operating systems and related software. The days following Patch Tuesday — commonly referred to as Patch Week — are when most users notice the effects of these updates, including slower computer performance and update installations occurring during shutdown or restart.

This article provides guidance on managing your computer during Patch Week to ensure updates install properly and to minimize disruptions.

Best Practices for Patch Week

Preparing for Updates

During Patch Week, restarting your computer is required to complete the update process. A simple shutdown will not install all pending updates.

1. Set a recurring calendar event for the second Tuesday through Thursday of each month as a reminder to allow extra time for your computer to complete updates.
2. Restart your computer at least once on Wednesday and once on Thursday during Patch Week. Multiple restarts may be necessary to complete all updates.

Performing a Proper Shutdown

Each night during Patch Week, fully shut down your computer rather than locking it or putting it to sleep.

1. Close all open files and applications.
2. Click the Windows Start menu.
3. Click the Power icon.
4. If Update and shut down is available, click it; otherwise, click Shut down.
5. After all lights and sounds have stopped, wait at least 30 seconds before closing the laptop lid.

Performing a Proper Restart

Note: Before restarting, ensure your laptop is connected to power.

1. Close all open files and applications.
2. Click the Windows Start menu.
3. Click the Power icon.
4. If Update and restart is available, click it; otherwise, click Restart.

Note: If your computer appears to be stuck on a blue or black screen after restarting, do not force it to shut down. Leave it running for several minutes. It is normal for the screen to remain black for 20 to 30 minutes during updates.

Video Resources for Restarting

The following videos demonstrate how to properly restart your computer:

• Windows 10: Restarting Computer - Video on Demand (cornell.edu)
• Windows 11: Windows 11 - Restart vs Shut down

Manually Checking for Updates

Note: Do not install the Windows 11 feature update if prompted, unless directed by your IT support.

To manually check for and install updates, refer to the following video resource:

• Patch Week - Update and Restart - Video on Demand (cornell.edu)

Avoiding Forced Shutdowns During Updates

Note: Do not hold the power button to force your computer to shut down while updates are installing. Interrupting the update process can cause serious damage to your operating system and may prevent Windows from booting or cause Office programs to fail to open, potentially requiring a full reinstallation of Windows.

If your computer has been forcibly shut down during an update, contact your IT support for assistance. Windows may need to be reinstalled.

Troubleshooting After Updates

1. If you experience video or audio issues after updates, restart your computer at least one additional time.
2. If issues persist after restarting, submit a helpdesk ticket for assistance.

For additional recommendations on maintaining your computer's performance and security, review our PC Maintenance, Security & Best Practices - Video on Demand (cornell.edu).