How to Check Installed Patches for Microsoft Windows Server 2003

Testing patches prior to deploying them is best practice and can prevent downtime.

Microsoft Windows Server 2003 features automatic updates that can be configured to receive and install updates directly from Microsoft, automatically download but not install updates or just alert the administrator when updates are available. Windows Server 2003 can also be configured to receive updates from a server on the local network. If the server displays errors that indicate it may be missing an update/patch, use utilities in the Windows Control Panel to determine which patches have been installed.

Instructions

1. Click the "Start" button on the PC desktop of the Windows Server 2003 computer and then click "Control Panel."

2. Double-click "Add or Remove Programs" in the "Control Panel" window that appears.

3. Click the "Show Updates" check box in the "Add or Remove Programs" window. A list of all installed Microsoft Windows updates and patches will display.

4. Scroll through the list of updates displays to verify the installation of specific patches.

References

• Microsoft Technet: View a List of Updates on Your Computer