Installing the Microsoft Windows Update patches to your computer is entirely up to you, as the end user. What I mean by that is that if you don’t patch your computer you are more prone to being infected with a virus, spyware or malware. The idea behind these patches are to fix problems with the original code that allowed the malicious software to be installed in the first place.
By installing these patches one can assume that the likelihood of getting a worm is less; however, it is not foolproof. You must exercise restraint and not visit sites that are deemed unsafe. How does one do that you might ask? It’s not always easy. Most bad sites are riddled with advertisements of nudity or such. That is a good first indication. Another indication is that links you are clicking on that ‘appear’ to be accurate, but bring you somewhere else.
Lastly, pick up a anti-virus scanner. There are free ones out there such as Microsoft Security Essentials and AVG Free. The list is endless, but try to have one running at all times to ensure your PC’s safety.