Updates – sometimes it seems as if your devices want to update all the time. What are
these updates and should you update?
The simple answer is: yes you should update as soon as practicable. There are essentially
two types of updates (both on phones and on computers): system updates and software
updates. Both fix security and other problems, and also sometimes add extra functionality.
System updates update your operating system (Windows, Android) which is what makes
your device work, software updates update your apps (like Facebook, Chrome etc). In the
case of Apple devices (Mac, iPhone) both these types are generally combined in one
package.
An operating system and apps are always a work-in-progress; although they are tested
before they are released, there are so many variables in devices and use that some glitches
only appear once lots of people use them, so there will be ‘fixes’ for that. Also there are
those generally called ‘hackers’ that try their best to find ways into the app or system,
sometimes just to make sure they are ‘unhackable’ but of course also for nefarious
purposes. Whenever a security hole is discovered, an update is sent out to plug it.
So even if you are happy with the way your device and your apps work, because of these
security fixes it is important that you do install these updates whenever they are offered.
Usually you can use your device while they are downloaded (in case of phones make sure
you have enough data or link to WiFi), but the device will need to restart after or during the
install.
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