Why Do I From Time To Time...

[Jackdaw33]

...get a pop- up message saying, 'W 10 will restart your computer out of active hours', with the option to 'Restart now'. Is this harmful?

[Togo]

Just updates Jackdaw usually to Defender security. No Worries.

[Jackdaw33]

Thanks.

[Togo]

If you do not restart, the next time you boot up the upgrade will take place.

[Buenchico]

Windows 10 automatically installs updates. You're not given any choice in the matter. (Actually there is a 'workaround' that disables the function but it's not worth going into it here).

Some updates need to make registry changes which can only be implemented when Windows restarts, so it's essential that your computer is restarted after such updates have been downloaded. Recognising that people won't want their computers to restart when they're in the middle of writing their novel, or watching a movie online, Microsoft have designed Windows 10 to only restart when it's unlikely they'll actively be using their computers. However, if they're really paranoid about security threats, they might prefer to restart your computer without waiting until then.

So all that you're seeing is a message saying:
"Windows 10 has just downloaded an update but can't install it until your computer is restarted. We'll make that happen automatically during a 'quiet time' later on but, if you prefer, you can make it happen straight away".

No big deal!

[Jackdaw33]

A very clear explanation, Chico.

[Togo]

Cumulative Update for Windows 10 Version 1607 for x64-based Systems (KB3201845).

Haha Jackdaw I have just had this pop up it looks like quite a big patch so I set it to auto boot up a 6am tomorrow. Are you side kick? (^_*)

[Jackdaw33]

Decided to restart. Took ten minutes.

[Old_Geezer]

Best to get it out of the way.

It's all about MS's belief that it should control your PC but will give you a concession on when to reboot within a period they are willing to offer.

Meanwhile I'm not getting any updates, may never do again, as they are continually failing to install. I've given up taking notice. I don't need this hassle. How difficult is it to offer patches that actually work ?