Are Microsoft Security Updates Really Necessary?

Some users of windows 7 claim that microsoft security updates are not necessary. They claim that their computer runs faster without them. Are there members of this forum that ignore the updates without problems?

 

"Patches Should Be Installed as Soon As Possible

You often need to patch security problems as soon as possible to fix whatever the problem is. After a patch is released, the security hole becomes public knowledge if it wasn’t already. Attackers now know the problem and can rush to start exploiting it as soon as possible before people update. Attackers know business and home users are often slow to update, and they can wreak some havoc in the time before people patch."

That's the way I feel about Windows up dates! Seems to me to be a very good reason to down load Windows up dates??

 

N3 the primary reason for Windows updates are security patches and while it certainly is possible security updates may slow the pc somewhat I seriously doubt that
happens. I don't know anyone who knows what they are doing who ignores any Windows Updates other than driver updates.

 

I always keep up with updates it's very important for security and other fixes.

 

So true,Rich.

 

I've spoken to people in other forums about the same subject. It appears that the answer is based on 'opinions'. 'Some claim' that 'if'' you have the appropriate antivirus/ antimalware/antiransome programs & practice safe searching updates may not be necessary. If i ever acquire another computer i'll try the above with my present computer as an experiment.

 

Those security updates are a required element of the system. These updates keep the back doors closed as malicious code can execute if they (the back doors) are not blocked.

The security updates are quite different than system updates, which are also required for system stability. Those that wish to not install these updates run their system at their own risk of crashing and/or being hijacked (taken over remotely). I personally keep my system fully updated.

 

I agree with bassfisher here N3 security updates and Antivirus and AntiMalware programs are all a part of total security and at this point removing any of them is absurd. Years ago many users ran without Antivirus programs thinking that a once a week scan would remove anything they missed but they were experienced users and were proven wrong most of the time anyway
with the speed of today's computers worrying about such things is ridiculous. It has never made sense to let anything in and take it out later. The best approach has always been to use whatever keeps Malware out "at the gate" rather than to incur system damage later either removing issues or repairing damage from issues.

 

Playing Devils Advocate time
If you are going to try this theory then I will STRONGLY suggest that once in a while you run the scans here to see if your system is indeed clean.

Just because you have the appropriate anti this anti that does not mean that you cannot get infected. Oh did they mention that you have to keep them up to date as well. Also that some do not get along together and what about false positives?

 

You know what this really boils down to N3? I doubt many of us would deny that really experienced users might be able to run without any protection or updates whatsoever, but is that
who you think you are?

 

No, i am not a "really experienced" computer user! I'm an experienced computer operator! More of a button pusher.

 

Well I knew you would say that therefore let's get back on track with how we protect our systems from the elements out there realizing Microsoft is not the enemy here!

 

Hi N3. If you buy a new Computer and wish to use this old one for this experiment, I think it is a great idea.
Very interesting to say the least and at the same time increasing your computer knowledge.
I have read as many against MS security updates as for, so it's a mixture of opinions.
Of course use all your AntiVirus, AntiMalware and Anti everything.
Any problems arising just ask the Team.
I would be very interested what issues you may have if any.
Be a good learning curve for you how to deal with such issues.
If you want to do this who are we to dampen your enthusiasm.

 

Good point Dougie but N3 just be aware too though that Malware beautifully and quickly travels over a network so as much as using a machine we don't care about makes a lot of sense
there still is the possibility that one infected pc eventually crushes the other one.

 

It is not a machine we don't care about. It would have the same AntiVirus, AntiMalware Anti everything as the main machine excepting ****loads of MS security updates. Interesting exercise.

 

Yes Dougie I get that, I just wanted to make N3 aware that there is a risk is all.

 

I want to mention that at present i only have one computer. I just wanted to get opinions on this " windows security updates" controversy. Also i am not advocating others to ignore any windows updates! By all means download any updates you feel are necessary.