Are you avoiding Windows updates? You shouldn't, given that they generally include important updates and patches that let you keep doing what you're doing sans issue. Perhaps you have a very specific, technical reason for ducking these updates, but for most people, ignoring them seems like a pretty bad idea.

Not surprisingly, Microsoft agrees, so it will be harder to skip updates with its next-gen operating system, Windows 10.

As ZDNet first noted this week, the latest version of the end user license agreement (EULA) for Windows 10 covers automatic updates.

"The software periodically checks for system and app updates, and downloads and installs them for you," the EULA says. "By accepting this agreement, you agree to receive these types of automatic updates without any additional notice."

So will your Windows 10 PC just be restarting at random without any warning? A Microsoft spokesperson sent PCMag the following statement.

"With Windows 10, updates will be automatically downloaded and installed. Customers will be prompted when a restart is required, and will have options to manage at what time they would like to restart their device. Not all updates require a restart, and many can be installed seamlessly while the device is in use. Windows 10 Pro, Windows 10 Education, and Windows 10 Enterprise customers have additional update management options and controls, including the option to use the new Windows Update for Business."

On Windows 8.1, you're given the option to have Windows download and install updates automatically, just download them (and you install them whenever you want), just check for updates and you decide when to download and install them, or never check for updates.

Related How to Use Windows 10 Action Center

Windows 10 launches on July 29 as a free upgrade. But for those who need to install it on a new device, pre-order the OS on a flash drives via Amazon. The Windows 10 Home USB Flash Drive will be released on Aug. 30, and set you back $119.99 with free shipping.

With additional reporting by Chloe Albanesius

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