READ THIS FIRST

Here's what you need to know before using Windows Update Restored.

Last Updated: 05/17/2026

 Table of Contents
 Disclaimer and Important Notices
This site is not affiliated with or endorsed by Microsoft Corporation. This software is provided "as is", without warranty of any kind. We don't believe anything should go wrong, but please ensure you have backups of any important data anyway. The Windows Update websites offered here are unofficial. This project is for archival purposes only. Read the Legal Information page to learn more.

Using Windows Update Restored doesn’t mean you should continue using unsupported Windows versions. Even with updates, these operating systems still have major security risks and aren’t safe against modern threats. It’s recommended to use a supported OS like Windows 10 (with ESU), Windows 11, or Linux. For more information, read the Frequently Asked Questions.
 Welcome to Windows Update Restored!
Thank you for visiting Windows Update Restored! This exciting project is dedicated to the restoration and revival of the Windows Update functionality for legacy Windows operating systems, specifically Windows 95, Windows NT 4.0, Windows 98, Windows Me, Windows 2000, and Windows XP. Our primary goal is to reinstate the convenience and user experience of the original Windows Update websites, allowing users to revisit these essential features just as they were during their heyday.

In August 2011, a significant change occurred when Microsoft discontinued the Windows Update websites for many older operating systems. This decision effectively severed access to critical updates and security patches that were vital for the continued security and functionality of users’ systems. Windows Update Restored aims to bridge that gap by reviving those classic update websites, allowing users to experience the nostalgia of these updates while maintaining their legacy systems in a more secure manner with original security updates. Please note that this does not make your system secure enough for modern use.
 Key Features
Here are some of the key features and offerings of Windows Update Restored:

Comprehensive Update Access:

Windows Update Restored provides a broad range of updates, including:

  • Security updates to protect your system from vulnerabilities.
  • Optional software updates for enhanced features.
  • Driver updates to ensure compatibility with your hardware (which still has to be compatible with your operating system).
  • Essential tools that enhance system performance and stability.

Revived Classic User Experience:

We have successfully restored the full user interface and features of the original Windows Update service, including but not limited to:

  • Critical Update Notification Tool for the Windows Update v3.1 and Windows Update v4 website.
  • Automatic Updates functionality for systems from Windows Millennium Edition (Windows ME) through Windows XP.

Optimized Viewing:
  • For an optimal experience, we recommend viewing the Windows Update Restored sites at a resolution of 800x600 pixels, which was standard for the older computers.
  • This website functions best with Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.0 or later, though we encourage usage of Internet Explorer 5.5 for the best possible functionality.
 Restored Websites
We offer restored versions of the classic Windows Update and Microsoft Update websites from 1998 to 2006. Here's more information about them:

Update websites Notes
Windows Update V2 Designed for:
  • Windows 95 (Internet Explorer 4.0)
  • Windows NT 4.0 (Internet Explorer 4.0)
  • Windows 98 First Edition (Internet Explorer 4.0)

Experience the earliest available version of the Windows Update website!
Windows Update V3.1 Designed for:
  • Windows 95
  • Windows NT 4.0 (Service Packs 3-6a)
  • Windows 98 (First & Second Edition)
  • Windows ME
  • Windows 2000 (up to Service Pack 2)

Relive the classic updating experience as it was in 1999!
Windows Update V4 Designed for:
  • Windows 98 (First & Second Edition)
  • Windows ME
  • Windows 2000
  • Windows XP (up to Service Pack 2)
  • Windows Server 2003 (up to Service Pack 1)

Take a nostalgic trip back to the early 2000s with this version!
Windows Update V5 Designed For:
  • Windows 2000 (Service Pack 3 and above)
  • Windows XP
  • Windows Server 2003

This version requires system modifications. Refer to our prerequisites page for detailed instructions.
Windows Update V6 Designed For:
  • Windows 2000 (Service Pack 3 and above)
  • Windows XP
  • Windows Server 2003

This version requires system modifications. Refer to our prerequisites page for detailed instructions.
Microsoft Update Designed For:
  • Windows 2000 (Service Pack 3 and above)
  • Windows XP
  • Windows Server 2003

This version requires system modifications. Refer to our prerequisites page for detailed instructions.
 Understanding Compatibility
It’s crucial to understand that every version of the Windows Update website requires Internet Explorer 4.0 to 6.0 SP1 for proper functionality. Using any other browser may lead to unexpected issues.

Additional Compatibility Information

Compatibility details for Windows Update Restored are as follows:

  • The restored websites also work for the Windows Server and Windows Embedded counter part operating systems too (Except Windows 2000 Datacenter Server). View our Compatibility page for more information.
  • Windows Update Restored doesn't support updating Windows Vista and newer along with their Windows Server and Windows Embedded counter parts. Use our sister project, Legacy Update to update those operating systems.
  • Windows Phone, Windows RT, and Windows Compact Editions do not support Windows Update Restored.
 Known Issues
Refer to the Known Issues page.
 Community and Support
Join our community through these platforms!
If you have questions, concerns, or suggestions, feel free to reach out through there!

Platforms Notes
MSFN Forum The forum where the project began back in March 2022.
Discord Server Engage in real-time interaction, troubleshooting, and updates with community members and project developers.
Legacy Update Discord Server Get help regarding both projects, ask questions concerning retro tech, and help find new bugs!

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