How to Set Up and Manage an Automatic Software Update Schedule for Third-Party Applications on Windows 11

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to Set Up and Manage an Automatic Software Update Schedule for Third-Party Applications on Windows 11. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

Windows 11 handles updates for Microsoft applications automatically, but third-party software—such as web browsers, PDF readers, and productivity suites—often requires manual intervention. Keeping these applications current is essential for closing security vulnerabilities and ensuring compatibility across your business devices. This guide explains how to establish an automatic update schedule for non-Microsoft software on Windows 11.

Quick Fix Steps

1. Identify all third-party applications installed on your device.
2. Open each application and enable its internal automatic update setting.
3. Use the Microsoft Store to manage updates for apps installed from the store.
4. Schedule a monthly manual check for applications that do not support automatic updates.

Detailed Instructions

Enable Automatic Updates in Third-Party Applications

Most business applications include a built-in update mechanism. While menu names vary by vendor, the general process is similar across most software.

1. Open the third-party application you wish to configure.
2. Navigate to the application settings, typically found under Settings, Preferences, or Options.
3. Locate the Updates, Maintenance, or About section.
4. Select the option to Automatically download and install updates or Check for updates automatically.
5. Save your changes and restart the application if prompted.

Manage Microsoft Store Application Updates

Applications installed through the Microsoft Store can be updated collectively using the store client.

1. Open the Microsoft Store from the Start menu or taskbar.
2. Click the Library icon in the bottom-left corner of the window.
3. Click Get updates to check for available updates for all installed store applications.
4. To enable background updates, click your profile icon, select App settings, and ensure Update apps automatically is switched to On.

Schedule a Monthly Manual Review

Some legacy or specialised business applications do not support automatic updates. For these, schedule a recurring calendar reminder to check for new versions manually.

1. Open the application and visit the Help or About menu.
2. Select Check for updates.
3. If an update is available, download the installer from the official vendor website only.
4. Close the application before running the installer to avoid file conflicts.
5. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.

Troubleshooting

Update Fails to Install

• Ensure you are logged in as an administrator on the Windows 11 device.
• Close the application and any related background processes before installing the update.
• Check that you have sufficient free disk space for the installation.
• Temporarily disable third-party antivirus software if it is blocking the installer, then re-enable it immediately after the update completes.

Application Will Not Open After Update

• Restart your computer and attempt to open the application again.
• Visit the vendor's support website to check for known issues with the latest version.
• If the problem began immediately after an update, look for a Rollback or Uninstall update option in the application settings.

Updates Are Not Downloading Automatically

• Verify that the device is connected to a stable internet connection.
• Check that Windows 11 is not set to Metered connection, which can restrict background downloads. Go to Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi or Ethernet and ensure Metered connection is off.
• Confirm that the application's automatic update setting is still enabled, as some updates may reset preferences to default.

If you are unable to resolve an update issue or need assistance managing software across multiple business devices, Open a Ticket with 220 Internet Services.

Still Having Issues?