Regularly Update Systems and Applications on Windows 11

Keeping your systems and applications up-to-date is a vital step in protecting your business from cyber threats. This guide will show you how to configure automatic updates on Windows 11, aligning with CIS Control 4.9 (Security Updates and Patch Management).

Focus Keyword

System Updates on Windows 11

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure that you:

  • Have a device running Windows 11.
  • Are logged in with an administrator account.

Step 1 — Opening Settings

First, open the Settings app.

  1. Click on the Start menu.
  2. Select the Settings icon (it looks like a gear).

Step 2 — Navigating to Windows Update

Next, navigate to the Windows Update section.

  1. In the Settings window, click on Windows Update in the left-hand menu.

Step 3 — Configuring Automatic Updates

Set up your device to automatically download and install updates.

  1. Check for Updates: Click on Check for updates to ensure your system is current.
  2. Advanced Options: Click on Advanced options under Windows Update.
  3. Automatic Updates: Ensure that Receive updates for other Microsoft products when you update Windows is turned on.
  4. Active Hours: Set your active hours to prevent updates from occurring during work hours. Click on Active hours and set the times when you usually use your device.

Step 4 — Managing Update Settings

Ensure your update settings are optimized for security.

  1. Delivery Optimization: Click on Delivery Optimization under Windows Update.
  2. Allow Downloads: Ensure Allow downloads from other PCs is turned off unless you have multiple devices on your network and want to enable this feature for faster updates.

Why Regular Updates Matter

Regularly updating your systems and applications ensures that you are protected against the latest threats. Keeping your software up-to-date is crucial for maintaining security and preventing vulnerabilities.

Related CIS Control

This step satisfies CIS Control 4.9: Security Updates and Patch Management, which focuses on ensuring that systems are regularly updated to protect against known vulnerabilities.

By following these steps, you can keep your Windows 11 systems secure and up-to-date. Stay tuned for more tips on managing your business’s cybersecurity risk effectively.

For more details on securing your business, check out our CyberGuardian Framework.