Hotfix and Windows Updates

[Jason Hurley]

I'm new to the Windows environment so forgive me. However,
my question relates to HOTFIX and Win Updates. I pretty
much know where and how to get Windows Updates I just am
not sure if I should simply install them as the come out.
Is there are testing procedure I should conduct prior to
updating? Also, is there somewhere I can go to read about
such updates prior to installing them, i.e. a forum for
updates?

Next is HOTFIX's, what are they? What do I do with them
and how do I get them? I've heard of them but don't know
anything about them. I purchased the MCSA/MCSW exam books
to include the core requirments for testing but I've
searched each index only to find nothing, nothing at all
in regard to hotfix's. Can some one please explain this to
me.

Regard and Thanks,
Jason Hurley

 

[David Hancock]

Hello Jason,

You should install any critical updates and security patches as these address exploits found in the OS,
and could leave you open to hackers. As for the rest of the stuff found on the windows update
site...installing them is up to you. If you are a domain admin I would suggest setting up a test machine
just to be sure things install properly, and that all behaves as expected.

Hotfixes are small chuncks of code that are usually there to fix a specific issue. Normally you can
download them off the net, but occassionally you will have to call into Microsoft support to get them. If
you machine is running fine then chances are you can wait for the next service pack to be released.

Hope that helps
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David Hancock
Microsoft Server Setup Team

Search our Knowledge Base at http://support.microsoft.com/directory
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http://www.microsoft.com/windows2000/default.asp
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