How to update your Lenovo computer

Ever had one of those days when your Lenovo® laptop starts acting up right before an important meeting or assignment deadline? Your keyboard might stop responding, the trackpad gets jumpy, or the battery life suddenly drains faster than usual. If that sounds familiar, it might be time for a Lenovo® update.

Asurion tech care goes beyond troubleshooting. Connect with our experts for quick fixes, tech care plans, and expert advice—all in one place. This guide will show you how to update Lenovo® laptops, PCs, and ThinkPad® laptops.

Before you update

On Lenovo laptops, Windows operating system updates come from Microsoft and focus on improving the overall security, functionality, and performance of the Windows™ operating system. In contrast, Lenovo updates are provided by Lenovo to optimize Lenovo-specific hardware components, drivers, and pre-installed software. Installing both types of updates ensures your Lenovo laptop runs smoothly, securely, and efficiently.

Before diving into any Lenovo updates, taking a few preliminary steps is important to making sure everything goes smoothly.

1. Back up your data. Updating can sometimes lead to unexpected data loss. Always back up important files to an external drive or cloud storage.
2. Connect to a stable power source. Updates can take time, and losing power during the process can cause errors. Keep your device plugged in throughout.
3. Make sure your internet connection is stable. A strong and stable internet connection can help you avoid interruptions for downloading updates, especially large ones.

Updating the Windows operating system

A straightforward way to manage your Lenovo PC updates is through the built-in Windows Update feature. This method ensures that both your operating system and drivers are up to date.

How to update Lenovo laptops and ThinkPads using Windows 11

1. Open the Start menu > Settings.
2. Select Windows Update > Check for updates. Windows will search for updates for the OS and Lenovo drivers. If updates are available, click Download and install. If prompted, restart your Lenovo laptop or PC to finalize the update.

How to update Lenovo laptops and ThinkPads using Windows 10

1. Open the Start menu > Settings.
2. Select Update & Security > Windows Update > Check for updates. Windows will search for updates for the OS and Lenovo drivers. If updates are found, click Download and install. If prompted, restart your Lenovo laptop or PC to finalize the update.

Updating Lenovo-specific system software

It's a good idea to update the Lenovo system whenever a new update is available, especially if you notice any hardware issues or glitches with Lenovo-specific features, like the trackpad, keyboard, battery management, or if a specific driver is causing trouble.

You can manually download the necessary files from the Lenovo support website.

1. Go to the Lenovo Support page.
2. Enter your device model, or use the Detect Product feature.
3. Select the Get Lenovo System Update section to find available updates. Then, click on the desired update and follow the download instructions.
4. Open the downloaded files, and follow the on-screen instructions to install them.
5. After the updates are installed, restart your Lenovo laptop or ThinkPad.

Updating through Lenovo Vantage

Another way to keep your Lenovo-specific software up to date is to use Lenovo Vantage. It’s a preinstalled application on most Lenovo devices that helps manage system updates and optimize settings. It simplifies finding and installing necessary drivers and other Lenovo software updates.

How to use Lenovo Vantage to update your Lenovo system

1. Open Lenovo Vantage from your Start menu, or download it from the Microsoft® Store if you don't have it installed.
2. Click Device > System Update. Then, click Check for updates to see if any are available for your Lenovo laptop or ThinkPad. If updates are available, click Download and then Install. Follow the prompts to complete the update process. After installing the updates, you should restart your Lenovo device to apply the changes.