WebJunction

Keeping your applications up-to-date is one of the most effective means to minimize security issues.  It’s easy to do and some applications can be configured to automatically perform update checks.  Listed below are several popular applications and vendor websites for downloads.  If your applications aren’t listed, check the vendor’s website for the latest updates.  Hardware operating systems can also be updated, so check their sites too. 

Internet Explorer and Windows Media Player

For the latest version of Microsoft’s Internet Explorer browser or Microsoft’s Media Player, go to http://www.microsoft.com and select Downloads from the menu on the left. From this page you can select any of several categories of downloads, including Internet, Media, and Windows updates.  

You can also configure IE to check for updates automatically by selecting Tools>Internet Options>Advanced>Browsing and selecting “Automatically check for Internet Explorer updates”

Microsoft Office

For the latest updates for Microsoft’s Office suite, go to http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/officeupdate/default.aspx.  As a word of caution, the service packs and service releases can be very large.  It is also advisable to create a system restore point if your OS supports them.

Adobe Reader

After upgrading to XP SP2, you may need to download the latest version. For upgrades and updates of the free Adobe Reader, go to http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html.

Follow the instructions on this page. User guides, system requirements, and a full description of other Adobe products are also available on this page.

Netscape Browsers

For the latest version of the Netscape browser, go to http://www.netscape.com. A link to the newest browser will be available from the home page.

RealPlayer

Go to http://www.real.com to download the latest version of RealPlayer.

Flash Player

To download the latest Flash player, go to www.macromedia.com.  In the “Shortcuts” section are links to all the products offered by Macromedia, including the free Flash Player.