The Importance of Software Updates: Why You Should Always Install Them

Everyone’s gotten those pop-up windows or messages stating that they have an update ready to download. Whether it’s Windows 10, that’s bugging you to let it update, or an app that’s requesting a download, they’re everywhere. But trying to escape these little messages isn’t the answer.

It might be easier to ignore the request or put it off until later. But it’s as easy to forget about it and never let the software or app update. Not only does it mean losing out on new features, but it could also have dire consequences.

Check out these two primary reasons why it’s so important to let updates install — and then go install them!

Reason #1: Updates Contain Important Security Patches

Skipping an update means also skipping the security patch that often comes with it. These patches are critical because they protect against identified software vulnerabilities.

Developers often detect vulnerabilities before any real harm can be done. Then they release a patch to make sure everyone stays protected from those who would take advantage of that vulnerability. It is especially critical for operating systems and browsers. Those programs handle a lot of data and are big targets for hackers.

But sometimes updates go unnoticed, and that’s when hackers swoop in. That’s pretty much what happened with that massive Equifax breach when they forgot to update their software. Anyway, companies usually jump into action the moment they realize the threat and release a security update. It is sometimes known as a zero-day attack. Those who don’t update right away put themselves at risk of being targeted by the hackers.

Some people take extra security precautions by downloading antivirus, VPNs, and using password managers. While security tools like NordVPN and Malwarebytes can protect your devices from many threats, they can’t replace security updates.

Only updates can fix security holes that hackers would otherwise exploit to get access to that app or the device. There’s nothing most other security tools can do about that particular problem.

Therefore, security updates are there to protect your data. They are a vital part of everyone’s cybersecurity defense. Don’t ignore them!

Reason #2: Updates Add New Features and Improve Performance

Updates can be annoying, especially for those who have a lot of applications installed. Each one of them receives regular updates from its developers. And that’s a usual scenario these days since people have 30+ apps on their phones alone.

But that doesn’t mean the updates don’t have any value. They don’t only exist because developers need to patch software vulnerabilities. They are also a valuable source of new content that developers add as they continue to improve their products. Now, who wouldn’t want a few extra gadgets and features to tinker with?

Moreover, updates are the only way that developers can fix bugs and increase performance. That means no more crashes or freezes, and no strange behavior when selecting something or pushing a button.

Sometimes developers add new code while other times they alter or delete old code. Whenever old code gets replaced, the new code could be more light and take up less space or time to do the same job. It’s for that reason that updates can make apps faster, and sometimes they can even take up less space as well.

So you should meet new updates with enthusiasm rather than irritation.

Updates Add to People’s Quality of Life

Updates wouldn’t exist without a good reason. Developers wouldn’t spend their time and energy on creating updates for an app or piece of software if it wasn’t necessary.

It’s important to remember that updates do many things. They protect people from malware and keep their data safe from potential hacking exploits. Updates also add new features and exist to make the user experience better and faster.

If they tend to be a significant pain, then try to see if the device allows auto-updates. Most devices these days do. Software and apps can quietly update in the background without bothering the user. Although, periodically checking for manual updates is still a good idea. Not everything will auto-update, especially on computers.