You're already familiar with Windows Update. This is the service that runs on Windows computers to install updates. These updates fix bugs and add new features in the Windows operating system.
Beyond Windows, however, there are lots of other firmware and drivers on your computer that also get regular updates. If you're having a problem with your computer and you've already run Windows Update, it might be time to try updating these other components.
Dell Command | Update is a piece of software that does this for you. You run the software, it goes out and looks for updates to your system's BIOS, firmware, and drivers. If it finds any, it will install them.
Before we dig in, there are three important caveats to keep in mind:
1. Dell Command | Update only works on Dell computers. You can actually install it on any Windows computer, but it will only actually work on Dells.
2. To download and install updates, your computer will need to be connected to a network connection.
3. BIOS and firmware updates can cause serious problems if your computer loses power while it's installing them. It's really important to make sure your computer is at least 50% charged and plugged into a power cord before installing any BIOS or firmware updates.
All set? Then let's get to updating!
1. Search for "Dell Command | Update" from the Start menu., or locate it under the 'All Apps' list:
2. Click the 'Check' button.
3. After performing a search, Command | Update will tell you if you have any updates available. If you want, you can review them by clicking 'View Details'. You can also select which updates you want to install, but just leave everything checked unless you have a reason not to.
I recommend keeping the 'Automatically restart system' box unchecked When you're ready, go ahead and click the 'Install' button.
6. Command | Update will download and install your updates.
7. If the updates need a restart, you'll be prompted for a restart. Remember: make sure your computer is plugged into power, then click 'Restart'.
After installation, your computer will restart and you can get back to work. Most system updates like this take less than 10 minutes to complete.
I'll throw in one last warning about keeping your computer plugged in while it's installing and restarting. If your computer loses power while installing critical system components (like the BIOS), this can corrupt the BIOS and turn your computer into a paperweight. Seriously, a bad BIOS update can irreparably and permanently break your computer, so keep it plugged in.