This message applies to all of you. There are certain updates for your computer that are not included in Windows updates. These updates enhance or fix problems with the hardware of your computer. They may apply to your CPU, your video card, audio, and other components. The most important of these updates are the BIOS updates.

Mac users have it easy! In the Mac world these are known as a “firmware” updates. Mac users will get them them whenever they get software updates for their Mac. The same applies to iOS device updates.

Windows users — there is some manual input required. You have to participate. As much as I would like to, I can’t memorize your updates for each of your systems. I can certainly check for you when we have an appointment, but it’s not practical for you to make an appointment with me just for this purpose. You need to do this. Part of being a Windows computer owner means checking for BIOS and driver updates. The only exception to this rule would be the Surface tablets / laptop style devices purchased directly from Microsoft. These devices will get the aforementioned updates with Windows updates.

I think the fact that YOU MUST do these updates is a major disservice to the customer, but I am warning you of possible catastrophe if you don’t do the updates. Whether you set an automatic reminder on your computer or make a note on your paper calendar, check for these updates right away and then check for them on the last day of each month.

I want to be straight with you: I think Lenovo, HP, and Dell do a decent job of making  it fairly easy for your to to download and install these updates.  However, some manual effort is required on your part. I am going to take you through the steps for the three major manufacturers. Please check and install the proper updates for your system immediately.

Lenovo
Check your start menu >> all programs. Look for the Lenovo System update.
If you don’t see it, please download the system update for your operating system here.
https://support.lenovo.com/us/en/documents/ht080136
^^ You must download and install the first item in the list
After installing or if you already have it installed, go back to the start menu and run the Lenovo System Update.

Install all updates recommended for your system
( You do not need to install the System Update program again to check for updates)

HP
You need to install the HP Support Assistant.
Again, check your start menu to see if it is already installed.
Click Start, All Programs, look under HP.
If it is not there, then install the Support Assistant from the following page
http://www8.hp.com/us/en/campaigns/hpsupportassistant/hpsupport.html

You will see the Download HP Support Assistant section.
Choose laptops or desktops
Once the file downloads or installs, run it. Install all updates recommended.
(You do not need to install the Support Assistant program again to check for updates)

Dell

Update:  If you have an Optiplex desktop, Precision workstation or Latitude E series laptop, you can download   the Dell Command Update by going to this direct link from Dell  http://www.dell.com/support/home/us/en/19/Drivers/DriversDetails?driverId=K82GG

All other Dell owners (Inspiron, Vostro, XPS) — follow these steps…

You need to install the Dell Update Application

http://www.dell.com/support/home/us/en/19/Drivers/DriversDetails?driverId=1GN7H

** Regardless of the scenario that applies to you…. you need to download the correct “updater” and install it.   Run it right away and install all updates.   You may be asked to restart your computer.  Do it.   Then make a reminder for yourself to run it on the last day of each month.

 

 

 

Final Notes
Remember, do these updates right away if you don’t remember them being done and do them on the last day of the month.

I understand that this can be a big hassle for the typical Windows computer user. If it seems like a lot, consider buying an HP, Lenovo, or business class Dell.   You may also want to consider a Chromebook, Chromebox or Mac.