The Mouse Trap
–by Janis Weber

Check out all of my archived articles from the Sylvania AdVantage HERE.

Those running Windows 10 on their computer, may have noticed there have been updates since the new year. Hopefully, they all completed, and your machine is running perfectly. Recently I have helped many people reconfigure their printers due to the update. It seems the update did not include the printer in quite a few instances. 

Here are some suggestions. First, check to make sure the Windows 10 updates are all downloaded and installed. Make sure there are no documents in the queue (waiting to be printed). You can see this in the Control Panel under Devices and Printers. Right-click on your unit and find “see what is printing.” Delete everything.

Next, go to the internet website for the printer. Type in the exact model number and search for its most current drivers. Drivers are the instructions for the computer and printer to recognize and function together properly.

Last month, Microsoft began privately sharing printing fixes. These installs fixed most of the Window’s printing errors but did not help with other error codes people were receiving. However, Microsoft told Windows admin, in private support chats, that the fixes would formally be released as part of the upcoming patches.

It takes about 8 hours to update

Microsoft says that Windows devices need to be online for at least eight hours to get the latest updates and have them correctly installed after they’re released through Windows Update. The amount of time devices running Windows are powered on and connected to Windows Update is tracked by Microsoft as ‘Update Connectivity.’ This measurement correlates the systems’ lack of enough connected time with why it’s not up to date while also making it easier to understand why some devices are unlikely to get recently released updates successfully.

What they found is that devices that don’t meet the required connection time are very unlikely to successfully update. Specifically, data shows that devices need a minimum of two continuous connected hours, and six total connected hours after an update is released to reliably update. This allows for a successful download and background installations that can restart or resume once a device is active and connected.

Summary

I would suggest everyone running Windows 10 do the following. Select the Start Windows logo Start button, then the Settings Gear-shaped icon, followed by the Update & Security Circular arrows Sync icon, then the Windows Update Circular arrows Sync icon. Finally, check for updates, and then install any available updates. Make sure there are no stragglers. Sometimes the screen will tell you to reboot but take a closer look; there may be more after the reboot (restart).

Next Sylvania Senior Center Classes
Many classes are open by reservation only. Computer classes are not scheduled yet, but you are welcome to use the computer lab Mondays and Wednesdays 1-4. Check the SSC newsletter and website for the most current information or call Susan Jennelle at 419-885-3913. I hope to hold classes this year. We are getting there. Check the Sylvania Center Newsletter to see what is happing.
I Make House Calls (I am vaccinated and wear a mask)
I will come to your home or office and help you with almost any predicament including repairs, upgrades including software, tutoring or printer issues. I can be your resident “geek.” I have an endless amount of patience and knowledge with years of experience. Give me a text or call at 419-290-3570.

BACK UP YOUR COMPUTER TODAY – It’s not if, but when you will lose data!

Janis Weber, B.A., owner of Ohio Computer Training & Support, is a professional computer adjunct instructor. E-mail any specific questions or comments to JwPCtutor@Gmail.com or contact her for assistance at 419-290-3570. Private tutoring and repairs are just a phone call, text, or email away.