Software Updates

Published by Nick on April 8, 2019April 8, 2019

Have you ever wondered why we must update our software and operating systems? Are you sick of the popups on your phone or computer asking you to do so? Software updates contain new features and important fixes for bugs and vulnerabilities. In this post I’ll cover some of the reasons for updating software, why it needs to be done so frequently, and the negative consequences that can come from ignoring those pesky updates.

Software and operating systems are written by developers. They use code to provide functionality. However, they often don’t have enough time to focus on security. The initial code could be prone to security breaches. Most of that isn’t intentional on the developer’s part, but it’s rather a fact of the program being new and the vulnerabilities not yet being known. Hackers will always find a way to break the code, even after patches are released. Hence the continual updates. When a developer writes code and publishes it, hackers read the code line by line and find bugs and vulnerabilities. They can then create exploits to hack programs and operating systems to steal information and wreak havoc on devices. Software updates are used to patch these vulnerabilities and keep the code safe.

Frequency is affected by the global reach hackers have and by the pressure developers face to push code into production before it’s ready. Products, like shoes, must be perfected before being sold to a customer. But code is unique in that regard. Organizations know that code can be updated; this causes management to force developers into publishing new code quickly. The result is new software with bugs that need immediate updating. Security professionals then scour the code and submit vulnerabilities to the organizations developing products in an effort to keep the software secure from hackers.

What happens if you ignore the software updates? Well, if you don’t perform software updates, your devices could be vulnerable to many exploits and attacks. This means the risk of someone hacking into your device and causing harm is higher. Hackers can get into your system to steal information or use your machines in a botnet to cause harm to others and assist in criminal activities online.

Software updates are essential in keeping your system and application safe. We run into a lot of people who don’t care about technology and don’t see a reason to update or learn about their devices. Once we explain how that can lead to their devices aiding criminals, they usually change their mind. Technology is going to continue to evolve. As such, you’ll find an abundance of informa