Internet Explorer Patch Is Here -- Set Up Automatic Updating

On Monday, the Department of Homeland Security advised users to stop using Microsoft's Internet Explorer until a security flaw was patched. That patch, called security update 2964358, is now available.

Users who have automatic updating turned on will not need to take any action because the security patch will be installed for them. Here's is how to make sure you have automatic updating turned on. Please note that you will need administrator permissions. The updating is scheduled (not immediate), so Internet Explorer will not be safe to use until your system updates itself.

How to Set Up Automatic Updating (Windows 7)

1. Click the Start button
2. Click on Control Panel
3. Click on Windows Update
4. Click on Change settings
5. Under "Important updates" choose "Install updates automatically (recommended)"

How to Set Up Automatic Updating (Windows 8)

1. Go to Search (swipe from the right edge of your screen and tap Search or move your mouse to the lower-right corner of your screen and click Search)
2. Type Windows Update in the search box
3. Click Setting
4. Click Turn automatic updating on or off
5. In Windows Update, choose on

Microsoft has also taken the unusual step of creating a security update for Window XP, even though it officially stopped creating updates for that operating system on April 8.

Please note again that these instructions will not work if you do not have the necessary permissions on your system. If that is the case, you will need to ask your systems administrator for help in enabling automatic updating.

You may be thinking this is a lot of fuss for a minor issue, but obviously, protecting your files and your client information is an on-going concern. Do you have questions about the patch? Ask others on Facebook.

Related Resources:

• Getting started with Microsoft Security Essentials (Microsoft)
• Protect Your Firm From Cyber Attack: Tips to Boost Cyber Security] (FindLaw's Technologist)
• Don't Use Internet Explorer, Homeland Security Warns (FindLaw's Free Enterprise)