While computer users know that Microsoft regularly provides updates to its Windows operating system, we want to underscore how important it is to install these updates — especially those involving cybersecurity — as soon as they become available.
- What they are: Microsoft provides updates via Windows Update, a free service for keeping the Windows operating system and other software up-to-date so it will run smoothly and safely. These have traditionally included a service pack, which is a collection of updates and fixes, called patches.
- When they happen: Patches and other security updates are routinely released through Windows Update on the second Tuesday of every month — known as Patch Tuesday or Update Tuesday. However, Microsoft does release updates on other days as well, when urgent issues arise.
- Where to find them: Windows Update can be found in the Control Panel feature of the Windows operating system. The update can be set to occur automatically, or it can be set to check for updates weekly. Windows Updates are classified as optional, featured, recommended and important.
Information about all Windows updates — involving both security and non-security issues — is available on the Microsoft Office Updates blog.
Prevent Serious Problems
Windows users receive a notification when it’s time for updates, such as the Windows 10 October 2018 Update.
“We will use real-time feedback and telemetry to update your device when data shows your device is ready and will have a great experience. You don’t have to do anything to get the update; it will roll out automatically to you through Windows Update,” explained Microsoft’s John Cable.
Once an update is downloaded to the Windows device and ready to be installed, Microsoft will notify the user with a message like this.
Photo source:
https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2018/10/02/how-to-get-the-windows-10-october-2018-update/#TDU6iLb7fRvk6txZ.97
Software updates such as these play critical roles in solving or preventing potentially serious problems:
- They protect against security risks.
- They introduce new software features.
- They improve battery life or performance speed.
- They fix bugs in the software and improve functionality.
According to the security folks at McAfee, not installing updates would be “a mistake that keeps the door open for hackers to access your private information, putting you at risk for identity theft, loss of money, credit and more.”
Updates Include Added Features
While security remains the most important reason to install updates, these new features also have been added with Windows updates. Users can:
- See photos from an Android phone on a PC.
- Send an Android text message from a PC.
- Search the web and a phone from a single location.
- Use the cloud to copy and paste images and text from one PC to another.
- Use the magnifier to enlarge all or part of the screen.
If you have concerns about the security of your Windows devices, an IT managed services provider can ensure your software is up-to-date and create a plan for making sure it stays that way to protect your business data.
Call us for a free consultation and we’ll talk about your security needs — no strings attached. Our expert engineers can design safeguards that are an integral part of your IT network right from the start. Together, we can develop an IT security plan that meets your needs and fits your budget.
Since 1995, Manassas Park, VA-based V2 Systems has employed local systems administrators, network engineers, security consultants, help desk technicians and partnering companies to meet a wide range of clients’ IT needs, from research, to implementation, to maintenance. Concentrate on your VISION…We’ll handle the TECHNOLOGY!