Ensure all updates are consistently managed through Windows settings.
Ensure all updates are consistently managed through Windows settings.
Hi, I manage my Windows laptop maintenance well since I use some assistive technology. Updates can sometimes feel overwhelming. On top of that, staying current involves several steps: Windows updates, optional updates, app updates from the store, Dell driver tools, Nvidia drivers, Winget for apps, Sumo for general packages, and Python package updates. Keeping everything fresh is manageable with a script, but it would simplify the process. Would you like me to combine those update checks into one script?
I don’t see why not. Perhaps the timing issue. They’re all just apps so you could just call them and run them. but I can see how running them all concurrently could snarl things. Unless there’s something already to keep them unsnarled. I suspect there might be. Even just standard old preemptive multitasking. One of those things to try. If your laptop is mission critical, and it sounds like it is, the better part of valor might be to set up a VM in something and test it there so it can’t do anything to your critical machine while you mess around getting it working right. If just calling the programs and running them doesn’t work. One thought might be to run the first one and then look for a keystroke before running the next one which you would hold off on until a check is done. There is probably a much more clever way to do this or a major problem I am not seeing atm. These are off-the-top-of-my-head thoughts. If this machine running correctly is critical to your health, as it sounds like it is, having at least one backup system (probably more) so there is minimum effective downtime (because no matter what something eventually will go boom) is something that should be in place anyway. There are systems in the winOS designed for this, but they need to be tested too so that problem remains. Edited August 15, 2022 by Bombastinator
The VM concept seems strong. I’m reassured with solid backups—I keep things safe on an external Macrium reflect and rescuezilla images. I was hoping for a simpler fix than using PowerShell, but it’s good to know there’s a theoretical path forward.
There is something about it. It’s a straightforward script, so if you’re a skilled programmer and type quickly, it might actually be faster and simpler. You could rely more on keystrokes instead of mouse clicks. Using the command line is usually quicker. The main drawback is the steep learning curve. But if you’ve already mastered it, it’s definitely better.
You're welcome on the topic. Scripting feels new to me, though I've seen Joe Collins' tutorials and used R for statistical work. PowerShell differs from bash in syntax and functionality, but both are useful. If you're starting out, look for beginner guides on PowerShell basics and R integration.
Powershell shares many traits with KORNshell, the popular tool for CMD users who didn’t dive into Linux. It replaced KORNshell, though with some noticeable changes. You’ll notice differences like the use of backslashes instead of dashes. The language also tends to have longer, more descriptive command names, which can feel cumbersome but helps clarify what each does.