SoniClear's Tips on Managing Patch Tuesday

About Patch Tuesday & SoniClear

Learn how to prevent Microsoft Windows Updates from running unexpectedly while using SoniClear. By proactively managing your system’s update schedule, you can ensure your recordings are never interrupted by background system maintenance.

What is Patch Tuesday and how does it affect your PC?

Patch Tuesday happens every second Tuesday of the month and is a series of software updates and fixes that are important for Windows. The Windows update process can sometimes affect the normal operation of SoniClear if it runs while recording, so it’s important to be aware of how Windows update works.

What kind of updates does Microsoft release?

Windows updates include crucial security updates and “patches” for Microsoft products. Typically, Microsoft updates your Windows operating system automatically, or your IT staff can control when the update is sent to your computer. In most cases, the changes to your computer start running invisibly in the background to avoid disruptions. The updates may run without being noticed or run during hours when you are not working (if the computer is left on).

Can Windows Updates interfere with active work?

Unfortunately, Windows Update may run during normal working hours leading to dramatic changes to your computer. This can cause the computer to stop functioning normally, interfering with your work. For example, twice per year, Microsoft releases major "Feature Updates" to Windows 10 and 11 that can affect every aspect of how the computer handles resources while the update is being processed.

How exactly does Patch Tuesday affect SoniClear recordings?

When the Windows update is performing more significant changes to your computer, it may cause SoniClear to stop running properly. When this happens, you can experience errors and audio loss while recording.

How can I prepare my recording computer for Patch Tuesday?

The most effective way to be ready for Patch Tuesday is to anticipate the update. Risks can be minimized in several ways:

Should I restart my computer before recording?

Yes, restart your computer with plenty of time before you use SoniClear. This allows any pending updates to complete their installation before you hit the Record button. Emergency updates sometimes also occur on days other than “Patch Tuesday”, so it is always a good idea to give yourself time to restart your computer before running SoniClear to ensure everything is running smoothly.

How do I take control of Windows Update scheduling?

Work  with your IT department/consult to ensure updates are scheduled to run outside of work hours. If you cannot control when updates are sent to your computer, you can “Pause” updates before using SoniClear. You can then resume the update process when you are not using SoniClear for recording.

Is it safe to disable Windows Updates permanently?

No, do not permanently disable automatic updates. For security reasons, you should never operate a Windows computer that is missing critical patches. Automated updates ensure your system receives security fixes without manual intervention.

Best Practices for Data Protection and System Health

Why is it important to back up SoniClear files regularly?

Regularly back up your important SoniClear recording files to an external drive, network folder, or cloud storage. Although it is not common for a Windows Update to affect files on the computer, it does happen sometimes in extreme cases. SoniClear includes integrated Make Backup and Auto Archive features to help you protect your data.

Why should I avoid "Sleep" or "Hibernate" modes?

For maximum reliability, SoniClear recommends rebooting your computer regularly, especially if it has been in "sleep" or "hibernation" mode. Laptops that have been suspended may not correctly resume the connection to external USB audio interfaces, which could lead to recording failure.

Additional Support

If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to our dedicated support team at SoniClear Support.