Hi GreenGoose1,
A little TIME is given up for the cause of SECURITY.
It's not that bad.
You have to allocate the time, or someone will be spending more time fixing a problem that was overlooked and not tended to properly earlier.
The time dedicated is based on the extent of security implemented, for updating and using the services they provide to insure that the computer remains clean.
Since I have two types of connection available, Dialup and Cable Connection (not my service, but available to me), insuring that the dialup system remains clean is accomplished quickly after every disconnect, whereas insuring that the Cable system remains clean relies more on a set schedule.
For me, updating and maintenance is an everyday occurrence, and only takes a few minutes of my time.
Regardless of whether I feel like doing it or not, it is really necessary, so that's what I do, like it or not.