I was more than surprised to find out that one of my desktops at home did not automatically install the latest Windows version, which is called the Creator’s Update.
This update is supposed to update automatically, but in many cases, it does not. It’s easy to see if your computer is running the latest version of Windows and if not, it is a cinch to install it.
It is critical that you have the latest version of Windows so your computer will have the latest security updates and fixes available. They are free to install and I recommend everyone do this. As with any update, be sure to back up your personal files first.
Let’s see what Windows version you have installed. Boot your computer to the desktop and once it loads everything, push the “Windows” key + “R” key at the same time, and a run box will open. Click inside the search box and enter: “winver” (without quotes) and click “OK.” In the box that opens, you’ll see the Windows version installed on your computer. As of this writing, the latest Microsoft Windows Version is 1703, which is called the Creators Update released April 2017.
Many people are reporting that their Windows hasn’t updated yet, still showing Microsoft Windows Version 1607, the Anniversary Update released August 2016.
If you find your computer needs updating, close all your open windows. Next, open your Microsoft Edge, Internet Explorer or other browser and in the address bar at the top, click inside it and type: “microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10” (without quotes). In the window that opens, where it states: “Windows 10 Creators Update now available,” click the “Update now” button. When the box appears at the bottom, click “Run” and then click “Yes” to allow this app to run on your system.
In the box that opens, if it states: “Update to the latest version of Windows 10,” click the “Update Now” button below. Follow the instructions to continue. This will take an hour or more to download and install.
If the message in the box states: “Thank you for updating to the latest version of Windows 10,” you can click the “Exit” button below and close any open windows.
You may receive a message stating that your computer is not compatible and in this case, you will not be able to proceed with the installation.
For 15 years, Scott Lindsay has helped tens of thousands of people better their skills, publishing more than 400 articles about Apple and Microsoft software, the computer and the Internet. You can reach Scott for comments or questions at ScottLindsay@live.com