I like how the thread takes a turn on page one. First RD is like
always use Window's updates, then someone says drivers and she's like
always manually update those things instead of using windows.
Anyway, updates reduce security risks. Of course, antiviruses (free), firewalls (router instead of defender), decent browsers (instead of explorer), using website based email (instead of outlook), and being smart enough to double check urls on downloading applications before opening them can all lend a part.
So are they good? Yes. No one is really saying they are not. What they are saying is a working computer with a dozen other safeguards in play is better than one that doesn't fucking work at all. Because
that is what many of the windows updates can do to your system. Shut the entire thing down so your locked on the window loading screen until you reinstall windows, probably wiping your entire HD perdition in the process.
You can enjoy the best of both worlds by turning off automatic updating and periodically running it based on user feedback. If the complaints are superficial you run the update, if they screw people over you keep your PC running and wait until it's fixed. Problem solved.
And as for the real topic, I won't bother with 10 until the next one after that comes out. Better to run a stable platform with most of teh bugs worked out of it than the one they shit out half-done but claim otherwise.