Step 3: Update Program Patches

It is quite common that application software, including Operating Systems, has bugs or vulnerable codes in it. Application software vendors will provide patches/updates for users to download and apply to fix those bugs or vulnerabilities.

For example, on Windows XP, you may follow the procedures below to check whether your Windows products need patching. For other application software, there may have similar patching methods and procedures that can be found in the application menu.

1.	Make sure the computer is connected to Internet, type in URL "http://update.microsoft.com/" in the browser. Click "Express" to check for required patches.
2.	After your system is analyzed, you can click "Install Updates" to download and install the required patches. Sometimes it may require a system reboot after application of updates.