How Important Are Software Updates for Device Safety and Your Protection?

We’ve written extensively about cybersecurity and much of the time it’s about prevention.  In most areas related to safety, one of the tips commonly conveyed is to keep your software updated.  We hear it so often, it’s easy to take for granted.  You may even ask, “Does updating software really matter that much?” 

Personal privacy and device security are at stake when we do not heed the warnings.  You can do everything possible to follow safety strategies to keep scammers at bay and protect your identity from cyberthieves, but if your apps, software, and operating systems are not up to date, you remain vulnerable.

What Are Software Updates?

Software is updated by developers when known threats are discovered. It happens often because the battle to close loopholes and fend off newly found vulnerabilities never ends.  But there is one simple thing you can do to stay up to date without even thinking about it. Say hello to “Automatic Updates”.

Now, you may say that you do not want to have things updated regularly. You may say you don’t like it when features change with an operating system or app.  But the fact is, change is inevitable.  As hardware devices become faster, software must be updated eventually to keep your device operating properly.  And, you simply must accept updates to ensure safety online.

Why Automatic Updates Are Necessary

Software updates often patch weaknesses that cybercriminals could exploit to gain access to your system.

• Turning on automatic updates is recommended to ensure your software is updated without delay.

• Automatic updates help keep your software current and secure by applying patches as soon as they are released, not by waiting for you to do it manually.

​Delaying software updates leaves your system exposed to attacks that exploit known weaknesses, increasing the risk of a cyber attack.  This includes apps, software programs on PCs and Macs, and gaming consoles.

And let us not forget about smart home technology, such as your smart TV, smart appliances, your router, and even your printer.

Are Automatic Updates Safe?

Automatic updates are safe because they always come directly from the software provider.  Make sure you never download software updates from unsolicited emails or untrusted links. Legitimate companies only notify you about updates within the systems you are using.

What About Manual Updates?

If you are going to update manually, always use the official platform or device settings.  Sometimes you’ll get a notice that the update will happen later in the day or overnight.  You may be presented with an option to update now.  This is OK. But in the event you forget, having automatic updates enabled will ensure it happens without your input.

Some devices will give you the option to delay an update. You may be working on a large project and wish to ensure your system is not unavailable at a specific time.  Most will do the updates when you traditionally are not using your device, such as in the middle of the night or after work hours.

Firmware Updates

On some devices you may see a request to do a firmware update, such as on a printer.  In reality, firmware is basically software for hardware and can be updated as well.  The main difference between firmware and software is that firmware is what helps a device boot up and communicate.  Software is more about user interaction.

Sometimes devices, such as a printer, may not have auto updates selected by default.  Check with the user manual of any device you have and you’ll find ways to set them to update automatically. The option to update printer firmware can be done directly on the printer or by selecting it on the software you’ve installed to run the printer.

Smart home devices like your smart TV should be doing these updates automatically.   The same goes for your Wi-Fi router, which is updated by your internet company.  However, keep in mind that hackers can easily access your Smart devices if your Wi-Fi password is weak.  This is also true of baby monitors.

Software Updates for Online Safety

If there is an option to turn on automatic updates, do it.  This includes your smartphone, tablets, any other device connected to Wi-Fi, Macs or PC computers.

Heed warnings when a device is asking you to update, such as printers or smart home devices.

Software runs our lives online, so be safe.  Ensure it is always up to date.

Ensuring Only Safe Apps are Installed

Once an app is safely installed, automatic updates will ensure the app stays up to date and secure.  But what about new apps you want to download?  Learn about our safe app search that filters out bad app downloads.