Operating system updates

Why do I need to do operating system updates?

We get this question very often.  The first thing we need to clarify is the difference between an update and an upgrade.  An update is a patch, fix or modification to the existing operating system.  An upgrade is a change in the operating system, for example Windows 7 upgraded to Windows 8, or Apple Leopard upgraded to Apple Snow Leopard.

Updating your operating system serves many purposes.  The most important is it patches any discovered security risks in the software.  We cannot stress the importance of this.  You may be the best computer user.  You have anti-virus software, a firewall, don’t download illegal movies and music, and only check the weather.  If your computer does not have the current updates, it is at serious risk of being compromised.

Another import reason to update is standardization.  This is very true with Apple devices.  Many updates are schedule.  For example, the new release of iTunes generally has associated updates on Apple devices.  One wants to stay current for compatibility.  Bug fixes may also be included.

Finally, updates can provide new features.  As technology progresses, one’s computer generally does not.  Operating system updates can include new features that were not available to your computer prior.  They may also allow new services to your computer.  A good example is an update for Windows XP that allows it to connect to an Xbox to share media and videos.  Those features were not available originally to Windows XP, but the update now allows it.

The downside for updates is sometimes they don’t work.  We always suggest you backup before doing any update.  If possible, test the update on another computer or in a test environment before installing it on your main computer(s).  Even with that, updates are important and should always be installed as soon as possible.