How can I regain control on Windows update?

[lifrancis]

I like to know what Microsoft is putting into my machines, so I have set the update manager to automatically download but let me choose the time and which updates to install. With my laptops, I very seldom shut off the power, I usually just close the lids and put them on standby at the end of the day. What I am finding out is that MS has put a lot of updates onto my machines, but does not show the update icon in the notification area. When I turn off the laptops to take them on a trip, all the updates have to be installed before the laptops can be turn off.

This presents me with 2 problems:
1. What good are the security updates to me if they are not installed?
2. When I have to shut the power and take the laptops on a trip, I am usually in a hurry. I don't have the time or patience to wait for a boat load of updates to install.

Can someone suggest some ways that I can regain control on this Windows update?

[Harryc]

Turn off automatically download, them go to the update site and choose the updates you want , when you have the time.

[emeraldgirl08]

ugh. I didn't like the automatic updates. Companies seem to think they know what's good for us. I didn't like it when I had dial-up and I still don't like it now (DSL).

I set mine for "Let me know when updates are available but I'll be a choosy girl and decide what is best for her!"

[jdhurst]

Another way, if it is downloading updates for you is to run Windows Update manually. If the downloads are there, it will not re-download, but if you use the Custom option, you can pick the ones you want. In effect, you are forcing an update under your terms.

I have no idea why Auto Updates work so poorly in XP but they do. They worked better in Windows 2000, and now work very well in Windows Vista. ... JDH