5 Ways to Update Installed Software Automatically in Windows
Keep all your apps patched with winget and dedicated software updaters.
Overview
Out-of-date software is a common security risk. Instead of updating each app by hand, you can automate it. This guide covers the built-in winget upgrade plus trusted third-party updaters.
Note: Download any third-party updater only from its official website, and be cautious of bundled offers during installation.
Key Takeaways
- winget upgrade --all updates many apps at once (built in).
- Patch My PC and similar tools update common apps automatically.
- Keeping software current closes security holes.
- Prefer tools that pull from official sources.
Method 1: winget (Built-in)
1. Open Command Prompt or PowerShell.
2. List available updates: winget upgrade
3. Update everything: winget upgrade --all
4. Schedule it with Task Scheduler to run periodically.
Method 2: Patch My PC Updater
1. Download Patch My PC (Home Updater) from its official site.
2. Run it to scan for outdated common apps.
3. Let it download and silently update them from official sources.
4. It’s portable and free for personal use.
Method 3–5: Other Updaters
- Kaspersky Software Updater — scans and updates common apps.
- Heimdal Free — auto-patches popular software.
- SUMo — detects outdated apps (verify download links carefully).
- PC App Store-type tools — install/update apps in bulk (choose reputable ones).
Automate It
1. For winget, create a scheduled task running "winget upgrade --all --silent".
2. For updaters, enable their built-in schedule/auto-update option.
3. Review updates periodically to catch anything skipped.
Troubleshooting
Problem: winget skips an app.
Solution: Not all apps are in the winget catalog or support silent upgrade; update those manually or via their own updater.
Problem: Updater bundles extra software.
Solution: Download from the official site and decline optional offers during install.
Problem: An update broke an app.
Solution: Reinstall the previous version from the vendor; pin/hold that app from auto-updates.
Problem: Store apps not updating.
Solution: Update those via Microsoft Store > Library > Get updates.
Conclusion
The cleanest way to keep apps current is the built-in winget (winget upgrade --all), optionally scheduled. Trusted updaters like Patch My PC handle common apps automatically — just download them from official sources and review updates now and then.
