7 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Delay Software Updates

Time to get honest: Do you ever ignore or delay those software update notifications popping up on your devices? 

It's understandable - updating takes time out of your busy day. However, neglecting those updates leaves you more vulnerable to serious issues down the road - from data breaches to unusable devices that no longer support the latest apps and operating systems.. 

Software updates for desktops, laptops, mobiles, and tablets have become indispensable to digital life. Beyond mere version number changes, they deliver vital security protections, new features, and performance enhancements that keep our devices running smoothly over years of use. 

Unfortunately, a staggering 60% of data breaches are due to unpatched software – realities hackers are all too ready to exploit. 

Don’t become part of the statistic. Let’s explore seven reasons you should keep devices updated across the board - no matter your device. 

Reason #1- You Need to Patch Those Security Vulnerabilities 

With so many breaches caused by software vulnerability, keeping your guard up is crucial. Software vendors and security researchers constantly uncover potential exploits that could allow attackers to invade networks, steal data, and install crippling malware. 

Hackers are notoriously opportunistic - they aim for the easiest targets. When a major vulnerability becomes public but remains unpatched, hackers launch widescale attacks before users get around to updating. 

Critical security patches usually require immediate installation as soon as an update is available. When an urgent security update comes along for your operating system or apps, it’s vital to act swiftly and not delay installation.

Reason #2 – Updates Keep Your Apps and Devices Running Smoothly

Have you noticed your laptop or phone freezing up or apps crashing lately? 

Annoying glitches and performance lag are often caused by bloated caches, memory leaks, and other software issues - all problems that updates aim to address. 

Neglecting updates allows performance bottlenecks and stability issues to pile up over time. Apps launch slower, web pages hang and freeze, and unexpected crashes ruin your workflow. 

Reason #3 – Updates Ensure Compatibility with New Apps and Devices

Digital ecosystems are constantly evolving - new apps arrive, and new gadgets hit the shelves daily. Software updates are crucial in sustaining compatibility over time so your devices can make the most of new innovations. 

Updates modify APIs, improve hardware integration, and expand feature support so that new apps and peripherals can sync smoothly with existing gadgets. 

Missing these "under the hood" updates could result in frustrating glitches when interacting with new devices or apps leveraging the latest standards.

Reason #4 – Updates Unlock New Features That Expand What You Can Do 

Beyond the dreary security patches and stability tweaks, software updates also introduce fun new features that expand the functionality and utility of your devices. Updates add capabilities that keep your user experience fresh, no matter how old your device is. 

Missing out on major OS updates means missing out on great new features that could boost your productivity or entertainment potential.

Reason #5 – Updates Keep Apps Functioning Properly Over Time

At its core, app functionality relies on a complex foundation of system frameworks, libraries, and APIs supplied by the operating system and chip manufacturer. Software updates deliver vital upgrades to this foundation, ensuring that the system and third-party apps continue working properly over time. 

Neglecting OS updates can ultimately break app functionality, leading to frustrating crashes, missing features, security flaws, and more. Updating apps and system software is the only way to guarantee flawless app performance.

Reason #6 – Updates Extend the Usable Lifespan of Your Devices

Keeping up with software updates over time is a key factor in extending a usable device's lifespan. Updates optimize performance, enhance hardware integration, address battery aging issues, and add capabilities missing from outdated operating systems. 

Without proper updates, devices age more rapidly as hardware and software drift out of sync leading to instability. Staying updated keeps aging laptops, tablets, and mobiles running like new - allowing you to hold onto them substantially longer. 

Reason #7 – Updates Safeguard Your Personal Data and Privacy

With growing concerns over data privacy, software updates focus heavily on transparent data handling policies and more stringent app permissions. 

Updates add layers of protection that safeguard personal info from unauthorized access while also putting you in control over what data apps can access. Falling behind on updates means missing vital data protections that ensure your personal information stays private.

Keep Your Software Updated - It's Easier Than You Think 

Software updates are far more vital than most users realize. They patch security flaws, boost performance, unlock new features, and help keep devices running optimally for years of active use. Yet despite the immense benefits updates offer, many continue dragging their feet each time a new update pops up. 

Sure, updates still require periodic reboots and minor adjustments as features shift - but modern operating systems have made installations smoother than ever. 

Major developers release substantial updates in more frequent, smaller increments - eliminating the need for major overnight installation marathons. Most updates are complete within minutes in the background while you continue working uninterrupted. 

Don't let update fatigue lead to lackadaisical patching schedules - it pays to stay vigilant. If you want to stay aware of the latest changes, protect yourself by subscribing to timely cybersecurity update alerts through authoritative sources like CISA. Today's software updates are unobtrusive, powerful, and crucial for protecting your investment in your devices.

Get Professional Help Keeping Devices Updated 

With the constant barrage of software updates, it can be challenging for individuals and businesses to stay on top of patching schedules. This is where enlisting the help of a managed service provider (MSP) like Makios Technology can make all the difference. 

Our expert IT staff takes care of time-consuming update tasks so you can focus on your work. We deploy a centralized patch management solution across client networks to automate patching. Critical updates are rolled out to devices as soon as they become available to minimize security risks. We handle any compatibility issues, test patches, and ensure minimal user disruption. 

With Makios Technology, you can trust your systems and devices will remain updated with the latest protections. Contact us to learn more about our managed services. We're here to help lift the update burden!