How to Check for Updates for Windows 7

Last Updated: May 10, 2019 Tested

Windows 7 provides regular updates so that bugs are fixed and security vulnerabilities are patched. Updates help keep your computing experience safe and enjoyable. This wikiHow will show you the steps to manually check for available updates in Windows 7.

Important: Windows 7 support ends in January 2020. Make sure that your device is up to date and that you explore some of your options for migrating off of Windows 7.

Steps

1
Open the Start
menu. This can be achieved by clicking the multicolored Windows 7 Start orb at the bottom-left of your screen.
2
Open Control Panel. Click Control Panel on the right column of Start.

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3
Go to "System and Security". Click on the green header.
4
Open Windows Update. Choose "Windows Update" from the middle of the list.
5
Check for updates. Click the Check for updates button on the main screen.
- If you don't see the button, click the "Check for updates" link in the left pane. It's towards the top.

Community Q&A

Question

How long does usually take to for Windows to search for updates?

Community Answer

Depending on your Internet connection speed and computer speed, it generally takes around five or 10 minutes.
Question

Window updates are taking a long time. What can I do?

Community Answer

If you are able to connect to your router via an ethernet cable, that may speed up the process.
Question

It says Windows could not search for updates. What should I do?

Community Answer

Try checking your Internet connection, then try restarting your laptop. If that doesn't work, try entering the error code it gives you into Google to check for specific tips on resolving.