While Microsoft publishes security and stability updates on second Tuesday of every month, there are times when critical fixes, stability updates and Service Packs are released outside the schedule. That's why you should set your computer to look for available updates on daily basis.
In Windows Vista, 7, 8 and 8.1, Open Control Panel, click System and Security and then choose Windows Update, click the Change settings link on the left: In the Choose how Windows can install updates window, make sure Install updates automatically (recommended) is selected.
Next, ensure that both Give me recommended updates the same way I receive important updates and Allow all users to install updates on this computer boxes are checked. In Windows Vista and 7, select Every day and set the time when your computer is most probably turned on in the Install new updates combo boxes. Do not close the Windows Update window yet!
In Windows 8 and 8.1, click the Updates will be automatically installed during the maintenance window link instead. Then, in the Automatic Maintenance window, set the time when your PC is most probably turned on in the Run maintenance tasks daily at combo box. Click OK.
Finally, click OK to apply settings. Do not close the Windows Update window yet! In case you have already enabled Microsoft Update in Windows Vista and 7, there are two more combo boxes available - Give me updates for Microsoft products and check for new optional Microsoft software when I update Windows and Show me detailed notifications when new Microsoft software is available. Make sure both of the options are turned on. You can skip the rest of the article then.
Note: If your PC is not turned on (or not connected to the Internet) at the scheduled update time, Windows will still check for updates the next time you start or restart your computer.
