Some people objected being forced to update to the latest version of Windows 10, while some want to immediately update their Windows 10 to the latest version once available. To keep Windows 10 being safe — while also offering new features to users — Microsoft regularly releases a new version of Windows 10. When a new version is ready, Microsoft will typically roll it out gradually, starting from the newer devices first.
In other words, if you have an old model machine, you will be able to enjoy the newest version of Windows 10 later on. But, if you can’t wait, you can manually update your Windows 10 rather than waiting for Microsoft to make the update available on your device.
Why updating to the latest version of Windows 10 matters?
The main reason you should care about when wanting to update the latest version of Windows 10 is regarding the security issue. The latest version of Windows 10 (and other operating systems) always comes with a new security fix. In addition, updating to a newer version will allow you to enjoy the newer features. In some cases, new features of Windows 10 cannot be installed on the older versions.
For instance, Windows Terminal — the newest tool to access Command Prompt, Windows PowerShell, and Linux Bash in a single window — can only be installed on Windows 10 version 18362.0 or higher.
How to manually update Windows 10
Updating to the latest version of Windows 10 is extremely straightforward. You can do so from the Windows Settings. Open the Windows Settings window by clicking the gear icon on the start menu.
Select Update & Security on the Windows Settings window.
On the Windows Update tab, you will see a Check for updates button. Click this button to check if the latest version of Windows is available.
If the newest version is available, you will see a button to install the update. The rest, you just need to wait until Windows 10 is done updating itself. You can check the update status from this Window, which consists of about four stages:
- Preparing to download
- Downloading
- Preparing to install
- Installing
For your information, the updating process takes time, especially the installing stage. For a machine with low or intermediate specs, it may take up to 3 hours. So, be sure to plug in your charger if you are updating Windows 10 on a laptop. You can keep using your computer while updating is running. You will be asked to restart your computer once the installing is complete.