During the past week, we have received numerous calls that the auto updater / backup system has stopped working. In each case this has been tied to Windows updates to your computer(s).
Microsoft issues major updates to it’s operating system every year in April and October. These always lead to a continuing stream of updates to fix errors caused by the initial updates, and then the subsequent fixes which break other areas.
During the update process Microsoft shuts down certain networking features, and even internet connectivity. Some of these features remain off until the update is completed which usually requires a reboot of the computer. While the initial update work is done automatically, and beyond the display, the reboot requires the operator to intervene.
We have even heard of problems where Windows updates are wiping out the entire computer, including all programs and data. Thus, be absolutely sure you are backing up daily to an external drive. This can be a setting in Windows to make sure this is happening.
None of these problems are limited to ASW. This is a world wide problem amply documented on the internet. Millions of computers all face issues from this, and with newer versions of Windows 10, you are prevented from actually stopping Windows updates.
The problem is also not limited to Windows. Apple also issues updates to their operating systems and encounters similar problems. In fact, we use computers made by Apple, which also run Windows for our software development, and thus we see a double impact. Sometimes it can take many hours for these updates to conclude.
We would suggest at this time that you go to the settings on each computer and select updates. Have the system check for updates, and if some are downloaded and applied, repeat the process until clicking on the Check button no longer shows updates are available. Then reboot the computer one more time.
If you have further questions, please email support@masterlinksoftware.com and we will help.