Why it's important to install updates on your device
Ever wondered if installing updates is worth the bother? Here's what you need to know.
Whether you use an iPad, tablet, laptop or desktop computer, you have probably been prompted at one point to update your device. While these pop-up boxes may look like the spam you see on websites, they’re far from it.
The device you use will have an operating system built into it, so iPads or Mac laptops will operate on Apple’s iOS system while tablets and laptops not made by Apple will run on Windows. Whichever system your device uses, it will eventually need an update. While it can be easy to dismiss the update notifications when they pop up on your screen, here’s why you shouldn’t.
What’s the point?
When a software program is developed, it is put through tests and quality checks and only once that has been satisfied is it released to the general public. However, once the software is out there in the world, and being used in real-life environments, it can come across little issues which get reported back to the developer. These companies then fix the issues and release the solutions as software updates.
For electronic devices, especially laptops and desktop computers, security issues can be a big problem. Software updates include security solutions to malware or hackers, as well as fixes to bugs and any other issues that have occurred since the software was released.
Is it different to an upgrade?
While they may sound similar, a software update and an upgrade provide two different functions. An update will install a current version of your software to your device, so basically updating your existing version of iOS or Windows. On the other side of the coin is an upgrade, which allows you to upgrade a program to its next major version. Generally, there will be a cost for a software upgrade.
How do I get updates?
If your device is connected to the internet and it detects an update is available, it will prompt you with a notification message. This will alert you to the fact that an update is available and advise you of the next steps to step, such as clicking on a button on the notification message which will start the process for you.
In System Settings on Apple devices and Control Panel for Windows devices, there’s an option where you can turn on automatic updating. This can provide significant benefits, such as improved security and reliability.
Ultimately, software updates exist for a reason. While they may take a little while to download and install on your device, they are worth it. So, the next time that grey box pops up on your screen saying there’s an update available, click on it. It’ll keep your tablet or laptop secure and up-to-date with your software’s latest features.
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