Keeping software updated can reduce the risk of being exploited by malicious actors. It can also help ensure that programs are working properly and programs and devices remain compatible with each other.
A software update is a patch, upgrade or other modification to code that corrects security and functionality problems with a piece of computer software, hardware device or operating system. It is often provided free of charge by the software publisher.
For example, Windows computers and applications usually receive updates through a program called Windows Update, which periodically polls Microsoft servers to determine what updates are available for the system. These can include security updates, which are sometimes rated as critical or important, and service packs, which may contain multiple updates in one package.
It is a good practice to apply these updates as soon as they are available. Many security issues have a time limit on how long they will remain viable, and the longer an unpatched system remains in use, the more vulnerable it becomes.
Another type of software update is a video game patch, which is often used to fix bugs or add new features in a game. These can be especially common in games with multiplayer capabilities, such as first-person shooters and massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs).
Updating software is generally a very simple process that depends on the platform and application being used. In Mac OS, for example, you can update most apps through the App Store. In Android, you can open the Google Play Store and tap the profile icon in the top right to view apps with updates available. Tap the Update button next to individual apps to begin the process or tap Install All Updates to do all of them at once.
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