Why don't you try re-reading all of the posts on the subject. You entirely miss the point. Install the updates from whatever source you trust but READ the MS KB article associated with the patch/hotfix. If you can't find supporting documentation for the patch then don't install it. You should read the information on EVERY update anyway, weather you acquire it from windows update or download it. If it doesn't apply to you then why would you install it.
To summarize: Install important updates from WU and hotfixes you need to fix a specific problem on your Win7. Or if you are too lazy to search for the fixes, life with it and wait for the next ServicePack.
Ubuntu is even worse than microsoft for it. but since its open source everyone and their grandmother will release a fix for it in the meantime which is even worse than whats going on here. At least we know that microsoft made these updates. Its whether or not you need to install them without knowing what they are for that people seem to be having an issue with. Im pretty sure they are released the way they are the so called "unofficial" route, because people bloodywell enjoy getting their hands on fresh software, zipping and packaging it up, and spreading all over the internet like a virus. Its for this very purpose that people invented the internet for in the first place.
There is just as much chance, if not more, that by not installing these hotfix packages you experience a problem or problems the hotfixes resolve over causing a new problem by installing the hotfix in the first place. Hotfixes fix specific problems that few people may encounter. Windowsupdate covers security, widespread performance or compatibility issues, and on rare occasions feature updates. Windowsupdate in almost all cases cover updates that may affect the majority of people. The reason why hotfixes aren't covered (and why they are under a different name) is simply because people will not want to download and restart their computer every day after a new hotfix is applied. People complained about Windowsupdate as it was, and now restrict it to essentially once a month (apart from defender updates) and still people complain! So, Microsoft minimise required updates by dealing with the majority. Its up to you about the hotfixes, but to say flatly not to install them is in my opinion a more false argument than saying do install them. ITS USER CHOICE Since this has been covered in many threads a sticky should be made that highlights the definition of windowsupdates and hotfixes, and why Microsoft classify them as such.
Hello That is so nice collection.Well after finding your this comment there is no need for any book reading search of last few years.I like your idea for distributing the books by years.
Wise information here ! This is common sense among the clutter of information. I stand by every word you said here, Edd. Everyone is free to make the call of installing every single leaked/official/unofficial update they get their hands on. But don't dismiss a simple warning about checking the kb first as some kind of BS. Installing sh**t without any knowledge of it is just plain stupid. Period. If you do the research, and still install everything, at least you know what to expect.