Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Hewlett-Packard (HP) Sytem Updates

If you use an HP computer or printer, as I do, you're undoubtedly familiar with its regular prompts to check for HP updates. Annoying as this may be, HP Tech Support tells me it's very important to install any HP updates.

In fact, under warranty, they've told me to ONLY check updates through the HP process, rather than through Microsoft Updates. I disagree, and suggest you check and install both.

The HP Advisor will rear its ugly head and ask to check for updates - that is, if you haven't already killed the Advisor process. You can still check and install HP updates by clicking Start - HP - HP Update and following the prompts.  Do this monthly when you check for other updates such as Adobe Reader, Flash and Java.

HP releases fairly regular updates for its software and hardware products (printers, scanners, cameras). I do know that after installing some HP patches, things worked better.

From the Voice of Experience Corner (meaning, it's my opinion, as is this whole blog): HP products are hugely popular, and most of us have at least one. They've done an incredible job of marketing, and their products are available everywhere, at a price we want to pay. However - to use most HP equipment, you must install (or endure what's already installed) their software.

HP software is huge. It takes up lots of disk space and lots of time and patience to install. Then it must be updated, after the installation. If you're installing new HP software, try going the Custom route, and uncheck anything you don't think you'll use.

HP software and hardware are often buggy. And the software does NOT uninstall easily or completely, most of the time. You may need HP's Tech Support help to completely rid yourself of HP software.

Point to Remember: When changing printers be sure to completely uninstall the previous printer and its software, then empty the temporary files (best to restart the computer) BEFORE installing a new printer and its software.
And install the updates.

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