Is It Bad to Skip Software Updates?

That little notification urging you to update your computer, app or device software might appear at the worst time, and it’s tempting to keep clicking “Remind Me Later.” Delaying a software update is generally fine, but completely skipping software updates is a bad idea and can leave your device vulnerable to security risks, performance issues, and compatibility problems.

Software updates are designed to fix an issue or make an improvement, and should be seen as an important life admin task to keep up to date. As time goes on, any issues and holes in old software versions will get bigger and bigger and will become easier for hackers and cybercriminals to exploit. 

In this article, we’ll look at why software updates are essential and how keeping your software up-to-date can save you from potential headaches.

What is a Software Update?

Software can best be defined as a set of instructions, technically referred to as programs, that tells a computer, laptop, tablet or cell phone what to do. It’s the opposite of hardware, which refers to the physical components that make up the device itself. 

Software updates, also known as ‘patches’ come from the developers of the application or product and get released in ‘versions’ ie v2.1.06. Each software update can be as simple as a small word change or be a very large and visible update to the end user. Software updates typically contain upgrades, improvements or fixes which aim is to enhance the performance, security, and functionality of an application or operating system. 

Updates can include:

• Security Patches: Fix vulnerabilities that hackers might exploit.
• Bug Fixes: Resolve known issues or errors in the software.
• New Features: Add or improve functionality to enhance your experience.
• Performance Improvements: Optimize speed and efficiency.

Why Software Updates Are Crucial

Cybercriminals are constantly looking for ways to exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software. Looking after software should be seen as no different than looking after goods within your home. Keeping them clean, functional and fit for purpose.

By ignoring updates, you leave your system open to exploitation by hackers who target known flaws in older versions of software.

Software developers frequently identify bugs or glitches that can affect the performance, stability, or usability of a program. Updates often include fixes for these issues, ensuring your device or application runs smoothly.

New features that have been launched are also only available in the latest software update, so by not updating you’ll be missing out on these developments.

The Risks of Ignoring Software Updates

Ignoring software updates can have pretty serious consequences, including:

• Increased Vulnerability to Cyberattacks – Out of date software is a prime target for hackers. High-profile data breaches often result from un-fixed vulnerabilities that could have been resolved with a simple update.
• Incompatibility Issues – Old software may stop working with new hardware or applications.
• Loss of Access to Support – Software developers eventually stop supporting older versions, leaving you without technical help.

How to Stay On Top of Software Updates

1. Enable Automatic Updates – Most devices and apps allow you to enable automatic updates so this is done automatically, sometimes without you even realising.

2. Schedule Updates at Convenient Times – If you are concerned that a software update will disrupt what you are currently doing or it’s not a convenient time, typically you can schedule them to occur later during downtime, such as overnight or on weekends.

3. Regularly Check for Updates – For software that doesn’t update automatically, a good habit is to regularly check for updates manually.

Software updates are not just optional upgrades; they are a critical part of maintaining the security, performance, and longevity of your devices and applications.

The next time you see a software update notification, don’t ignore it. Take a few minutes to safeguard yourself.