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Summary
This article includes instructions on how to check if updates are needed on a Windows 10 computer, and how to apply them if necessary. These instructions apply to both personal and USNH-managed Windows computers.
Note: As Windows 10 nears end-of-support from Microsoft in 2025, the option to Upgrade to Windows 11 may appear on computers that have hardware able to handle the upgrade. If you see that option, ET&S recommends that you install the upgrade when it is convenient. An operating system upgrade may take up to an hour or two to complete. Please plug your computer into power, save all work, and close all applications prior to starting any upgrade. See detailed instructions in our article on Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 .
Important: ET&S always recommends you do not store data locally on your computer and that you use OneDrive or another USNH network storage location to store your files so your data is backed up. If at any time your hard drive were to fail, ET&S and other data recovery providers may not be able to recover your data as all office computer hard drives are encrypted. To learn more about OneDrive, visit our knowledge articles on OneDrive: Accessing/Logging in to OneDrive and OneDrive: Synchronizing Files/Folders .
How-To
Task: To check if updates are needed on a Windows computer
Instructions
Step 1 - Click the Windows Icon in the lower-left corner of your screen. 
Step 2 - Click the Gear Icon on the left-hand menu that expands over the Windows Icon.
Step 3 - Click on Update & Security.
Step 4 - On the Windows Update screen, check the Last Checked date. If it is not today, click Check for Updates.
If the Windows Update screen indicates the computer is up to date after checking for updates, this means the device is patched, and no other action is required. If not, follow the steps below.
Outcome
The user should be able to check if their Windows computer needs to be updated.
How-To
Task: To install updates on a Windows computer
Instructions
Step 1 - If the Windows Update screen indicates that there are updates that need to be applied, it is likely that it will automatically begin downloading the important patches (as seen in the screenshot below).
Step 2 - If the Windows Update screen indicates updates are required but does not start downloading them, select the option provided to install updates. After all important updates are installed, confirm that the Windows Update screen now indicates the device is up to date.
Note: As Windows 10 nears end-of-support from Microsoft in 2025, the option to Upgrade to Windows 11 may appear on computers that have hardware able to handle the upgrade. If you see that option, ET&S recommends that you install the upgrade when it is convenient. An operating system upgrade may take up to an hour or two to complete. Please plug your computer into power, save all work, and close all applications prior to starting any upgrade. See detailed instructions in our article on Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 .
Important: ET&S always recommends you do not store data locally on your computer and that you use OneDrive or another USNH network storage location to store your files so your data is backed up. If at any time your hard drive were to fail, ET&S and other data recovery providers may not be able to recover your data as all office computer hard drives are encrypted. To learn more about OneDrive, visit our knowledge articles on OneDrive: Accessing/Logging in to OneDrive and OneDrive: Synchronizing Files/Folders .
Outcome
The user should be able to install any available updates on their Windows computer.
Further Readings
Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11
OneDrive: Accessing/Logging in to OneDrive
OneDrive: Synchronizing Files/Folders
Need additional help?
Visit the Technology Help Desk Support page to locate your local campus contact information or to submit an online technology support request. For password issues you must call or visit the Help Desk in person.