The 3 best update managers - a comparison

Microsoft only updates its own operating system and some drivers. The best update managers will help you to update software from other manufacturers.

Keep drivers up to date with SlimDrivers Update Manager

The freeware "SlimDrivers" examines your PC for outdated drivers. The program analyzes your system information and, with the integrated update function, provides a very easy way to keep your system up to date.

• After the installation you have to start a scan. The program lists all outdated drivers. You can also specifically ignore updates.
• The updates can be downloaded directly in the program. With a click on "Download Update" you first have the possibility to create a system restore point in case problems should arise later. Then the program starts the download and then the installation process.
• In the settings you can specify whether the program starts automatically with Windows or you automate the update process.

Keep software up to date with Secunia Personal Software Inspector (PSI)

"Secunia Personal Software Inspector" PSI for short is also available free of charge. In contrast to SlimDrivers, PSI does not check your drivers, but the installed programs for updates.

• After the first start of the program, your software will be examined. The program not only lists the outdated programs, but also all current ones. A percentage display shows you quickly how many programs are up to date.
• The program informs you if an update has to be installed manually. PSI does the rest automatically. You may have to set the language of the installation.
• You can reach the settings directly in the overview. How to specify that the program starts automatically with Windows and whether the updates are installed automatically in the background.

The Update Manager in the Microsoft Office look: UpdateStar

In contrast to the alternative free programs, you cannot install the updates automatically with "UpdateStar" in the free version. With the Premium Edition you can overcome this hurdle.

• The program shines in the familiar look of Microsoft Office. On the start page you get an overview of your system status. All installed programs are listed under "Programs".
• In the free version of UpdateStar, you cannot install updates directly in the program. The program also does not redirect you to the manufacturer's website.
• Similar to Microsoft Office, you can access the settings by clicking on the icon in the top left. There you can determine, among other things, how the program behaves.

In another practical tip, we will show you how necessary updates are at all.