We may find them annoying when they pop up in the middle of something we are doing, but software updates are important. The main reason why companies such as Microsoft and Apple release updates is to fix errors or problems in existing software. Sometimes, updates are also called patches, because they are used on an already existing software to fix a bug or hole. Mostly, the updates are for minor things, but sometimes they are fixes for security issues. They are also used to improve on a software program.
Microsoft Updates
These updates are created for all Microsoft programs including the operating system, internet browser and programs such as EXCEL. Alternately, some users prefer to use Windows updates just for the internet browser and operating system. The decision to use one or the other depends on your computer usage, computer savvy and the type of risks you feel you may be exposed to. Microsoft normally releases their updates every second Tuesday of the month, which is known as patch Tuesday.
Most software updates can be downloaded freely from the company that sells or distributes the software. A few have to be purchased, however. In general they are downloaded via the Internet, although there are ways to install updates without Internet access.
There is no need to always remember when to download updates. This can be set up to be done automatically at a particular time. For some people doing this every week at first log in works, for others, it’s right before they turn off the computer. Some installation of updates requires human input. With these there is no other way but to spend the few minutes required to get it done. The good thing is that updates are now easy to manage and can be done with just a few clicks of the mouse.