Chris Hodgdon's Computer Service LLC

Question:  When I open or visit certain pages on the internet, it tells me that I need to update either a Windows Driver, Flash Player, Java, Adobe, etc.  It just depends on the website that I am going to.  I question this because the website/link they are wanting to send me to for the update does not seem to belong to Microsoft, Adobe, Java or another other legit site

Answer:  We get asked about this all the time.  You need to pay attention to these "need to update" warnings.  In most cases, these are fake.  If you follow the link, you will likely be taken to a website that will try to download or will download software to your computer that may be named the same but is not truly related to the driver, plugin, etc. that its telling you that you need to fix.

If we are helping to maintain your computers or working with you to keep them up-to-date, the we try to make sure that all updates are taken care of.  If you have a question about one, please call or email us and we can work with you to determine if it really is needed.  If a website is telling you that you need to update/upgrade a Microsoft Windows Driver, don't even think about clicking on it.  All Windows Drivers get updated through the Windows Updates that run on your computer itself.  For others, such as Flash Player, etc., please use caution.  In fact, if you want to be sure that you are downloading the legit version of that software or have the most current version, please use the links below.

All of our links go directly to the manufacture websites for those items.  If any download pages have a check box for "Optional Offer" items please clear the check box.  This will download unwanted software, including McAfee Security software that will cause problems on your computer.