Installing upates - do not turn off this computer

January 26, 2015

Convenient

Isn’t it convenient: your computer telling you when to update your operating system? Sure it is. Any decent operating system offers this service. However, the dumb-ass at Microsoft that decided to make it the default for updates to be installed at shut down time, should have his half lobotomy completed.

or not?

Last night, I was about to go to bed, waiting for my computer to shut down. Alas: it displayed ‘Installing updates 1 of 1 – do not turn off this computer'... for twenty minutes!

Who's fault is it?

Stop nagging about the fact that I was working on a computer with a Microsoft OS. ‘You could have avoided that’, I hear you saying. You’re absolutely right, point taken: 0 – 1. Unfortunately, wife and kids don’t share my Linux perseverance. Therefore, the family computer runs Windows 7.

I admit, Microsoft has improved quite a bit over the recent years. But why – for crying out loud – do they install updates at shutdown time? I had been working all evening. There were plenty of CPU-cycles left to perform the updates while I was working. The smart-asses amongst you will probably think ‘hugh, why don’t you just leave for a good night of sleep? Your computer will switch itself off.’ Yes, I agree, but in that scenario my computer, my cable modem, my router, my switch, my printer (and all the other gear, the list is long) will silently consume energy during the night. I like to switch them off ‘the hard way’. It’s a small contribution to saving energy, but it’s worthwhile.

I bet you have been caught in similar situations yourself. About to end a day’s work at the office, longing to return to your home to start enjoying family life and a good book. No, sweat it out – updates first.

I will not blame Bill himself, because I assume he did not make the decision about the shut-down updates himself.

Penance

However, for the twat that is responsible, I propose the following punishment. When – at the very end of his life – all spirit of life is about to leave his body, when he’s longing for the eternal peace of mind he’s entitled to... send an angel that tells him: ‘We are very sorry, sir, but we need to install some upates before you can cross. We’re starting now with update 1 of 365. It will take about a year. Enjoy the waiting...’ The mere thought gives me comfort.