How to Update All Installed Programs in Windows (The Old-School but Smart Way in 2025)

Keeping your Windows PC running smoothly is like maintaining a good household—it works best when everything’s in order and up to date. In today’s fast-paced digital age, software updates are not just about new features—they patch security holes, fix bugs, and improve performance.

If you value doing things the right way, this guide is for you. Let’s walk through how to update all installed programs in Windows step by step.

Why You Should Regularly Update Software
Before diving into the how, let’s touch on the why—just like changing oil in your car or repainting a fence:

Security: Updates often fix vulnerabilities that hackers exploit.

Performance: New versions usually run better and faster.

Stability: Fewer crashes, glitches, or errors.

Compatibility: Newer versions work better with updated Windows and other software.

Method 1: Using Windows Store (For Apps Installed from Microsoft Store)
If you’ve installed apps via the Microsoft Store (like WhatsApp Desktop, Netflix, etc.), updating them is easy:

• Open Microsoft Store.
• Click on your profile icon (top right) → then App settings.
• Go to Library → Click Get updates.
• The Store will update all apps automatically.

Tip: You can turn on Automatic Updates in the Store settings.

Method 2: Manual Update (For Traditional Desktop Programs)
Some programs don’t use the Microsoft Store. Here’s the traditional way:

• Open each program (e.g., VLC, WinRAR, Chrome).
• Go to the Help or About menu.
• Look for “Check for Updates” or “Update”.
• Follow prompts if an update is available.

Old-school programs still follow this method—solid and dependable.

Method 3: Use a Third-Party Software Updater (Best for Bulk Updating)
If you’ve got a long list of installed software and don’t want to check each one manually, try a trusted third-party utility:

Top Free Software Updaters in 2025:

• Patch My PC (lightweight and portable)
• IObit Software Updater
• SUMo (Software Update Monitor) (now maintained by KC Softwares Community)
• Ninite Updater (paid, but convenient

How to Use Patch My PC:

• Download Patch My PC.
• Run the program (no installation needed).
• It scans your system for outdated software.
• Select all → Click “Perform Updates”.

No ads, no bloatware. Just the way it should be.

Method 4: Windows Update (Don’t Forget This One!)
Some drivers, Microsoft software, and system tools are updated through Windows Update:

• Go to Settings → Windows Update.
• Click Check for updates.
• Install available updates.
• Especially important for security patches and Microsoft Office updates.

Final Reminders

• Schedule updates once a week or at least twice a month.
• Always back up important files before doing major updates.
• Avoid sketchy updaters—stick with reputable tools.

Traditional Wisdom: “If it ain’t broke… still check for updates.”
Even if your PC feels fine, outdated software is like leaving your front door unlocked. Updating doesn’t mean chasing every new version, but it does mean keeping things in good working order, just like we’ve always done.