The constant update of Windows 8.1 allows Microsoft to install fixes and solutions related to problems related to the operating system or to the computer's drivers, so that the computer can continue to function correctly without interruption. By default, Windows 8.1 automatically installs all updates that are released by Microsoft. However, if you have disabled this operating system feature, you can update Windows 8.1 manually and at any time via the "Settings" menu.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Configure Windows Automatic Update
Step 1. Swipe your finger across the screen from the right side towards the center, then choose the "Settings" option
If you are using a mouse, place the pointer in the lower right corner of the screen, then select the "Settings" item
Step 2. Click on the "Change PC settings" link, then choose the "Update and reset" item
Step 3. Select the "Choose how to install updates" item
Step 4. Click on the "Important Updates" drop-down menu and select the "Install updates automatically" option
Step 5. Select the "Download recommended updates in the same way as important updates" checkbox, then click the "Apply" button
Step 6. Close the "Change Settings" dialog box
At this point the operating system will automatically install all the updates that Microsoft will release in the future for Windows 8.1.
Method 2 of 3: Manually Install Updates
Step 1. Swipe your finger across the screen from the right side towards the center, then choose the "Settings" option
If you are using a mouse, place the pointer in the lower right corner of the screen, then select the "Settings" item
Step 2. Click on the "Change PC settings" link, then choose the "Update and reset" item
Step 3. Click on the "Check Now" button
Windows will proceed to check for new updates distributed by Microsoft.
Step 4. If there are any updates, click the "Install Updates" button
Step 5. Read and accept the terms of the licensed use of Microsoft products, then click the "Finish" button
Windows will automatically install all updates released by Microsoft.
Method 3 of 3: Troubleshooting
Step 1. Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter if you are having trouble installing the latest updates released by Microsoft
This Windows tool can automatically detect and fix problems associated with the Windows Updates program.
- Visit the Microsoft website https://windows.microsoft.com/it-it/windows/troubleshoot-problems-installing-updates#1TC=windows-8 and click on the "Windows Update Troubleshooting" link displayed in the first line of the page.
- Save the file with the ".diagcab" extension on your desktop, then double-click the corresponding icon to start the program. Your computer will automatically use the program to fix any problems related to Windows Update functionality.
Step 2. Use the Windows feature called "System Restore" to restore a previous computer configuration if the system crashed after rebooting and installing updates
The "System Restore" feature will help you troubleshoot problems that may cause Windows Update to malfunction.
- Press and hold the power button on your computer until it turns off, then press it again to restart the system. The Windows troubleshooting screen will appear automatically.
- Click on the "Restore" icon, then click on the "System Restore" option.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall Windows updates when your system is reset. In most cases, new updates will be installed successfully after a system restore is performed.
Step 3. Try restarting your computer if you are unable to install the latest updates released by Microsoft
Some changes cannot be made when the files and services are in use by Windows, so in this case, you must restart your computer to complete the update.
