ISC's Computing Resource Center

Run Office Update

Much like operating systems, Microsoft’s Office applications have inherent flaws or vulnerabilities built into them. Over time, hackers discover these vulnerabilities and write programs or viruses to try to exploit them. Application vendors, including Microsoft, release security updates in response to these exploits. That’s why it’s important to keep current with any updates released by the application vendor.

Microsoft offers a service similar to Windows Update that can be used to patch Microsoft Office applications. Follow the instructions below to install the latest Critical Updates for Office to help keep your computer safe.

NOTE: Penn’s WAUS Service is a service that automatically provides critical OS updates to your computer. In its current from it DOES NOT distribute patches for Microsoft Office applications. Therefore, it is important that you run Office Update as part of your weekly security regimen.

What you need to do:

1. Make sure you are connected to the Internet.
2. Close all active applications.
3. Launch Microsoft Internet Explorer, version 7.0 or above (FireFox or other web browsers will not work for this purpose). If you do not have at least Internet Explorer 7.0, you will need to install Internet Explorer 7.0 or above. A link to Internet Explorer is available on the Supported Products web page.
4. Point Internet Explorer to http://www.officeupdate.com. If Windows asks whether to install a newer version of the update software, click “Yes.”
5. Click “Check for updates.” Microsoft will scan your hard drive to determine what updates are already installed. Please wait until the scan reaches 100%
6. The Office Update window will show which updates are available and automatically check those marked Critical.
7. It is recommended that you install all critical updates.
   1. Click “Start Installation”
   2. Click “Accept.” Windows will download and install updates you have selected.
   3. IMPORTANT: When installing Office and other Microsoft application patches, you may be prompted to insert your original software DVD.
8. Windows will display a dialog box requesting you restart. Click “Finish.”Your workstation will restart and you may resume normal use of your computer.

Remember, to protect your computer from future vulnerabilities, be sure to run Office Update every week.