Updating Device Operating Systems, Software and Apps

Updating device operating systems, software and apps is an essential step towards securing yourself from malicious activity. These updates often address security flaws as well as stability and usability issues. Maintaining updates is a good idea to keep your devices and software protected, but also improving your overall computing experience.

WINDOWS

AUTOMATIC UPDATES
Scheduling Automatic Updates through the built-in Microsoft Update app will help keep you on top of Microsoft's latest patches for the Microsoft suite of products - including Office and various developer tools. This can be scheduled to run on a specific interval, which can be selected for whatever time is convenient for you. 

• Configuring Automatic Updates
  • Windows 7, 8.1, and Windows 10 (Windows 10 Automatic updates configured by default)
  • Office Updates
  • Updates FAQs

APPLICATION AND PLUGIN UPDATES
Application and plugin updates are often forgotten or ignored leaving many computers vulnerable to a multitude of attacks.

Ninite: Ninite offers a tool for updating various Windows plugins and applications, such as QuickTime, Chrome, FireFox, Adobe Reader, and more. This tool is free for home users. Simply visit their site and choose the programs you have (or want to install) from their selection guide and download the executable. 

Automatic App Updates: You can configure applications purchased from the Windows Store to update automatically (Windows 8-10). 

MAC OS 

Periodically Apple will release new build's of OS to address issues, security flaws, or to add features. Keeping your operating system at the latest build will help protect you from exploits. The following article reviews how to keep your Mac updated:

• How to Upgrade to macOS Catalina
• Keep Software Updated
• Set Automatic Software Updates

ANDROID

Depending on your carrier or your manufacturer, you may see a notification on your Android device to update it's operating system. It is highly recommended that you do so whenever available. In the absence of a notification, you can prompt your device to check for updates manually.

• Update an Android   
  

UPDATE APPS
Updating your applications will help you keep on top of the latest fixes:

• Update your Android Apps

iOS

Updating iOS is a simple process that will help keep you protected from malicious activity. If your device is too old to run the latest iOS it may be time to consider getting a replacement. Please follow this guide on checking for and installing the latest version of iOS:

• Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch

The App Store can be used to update your iOS device's applications. Follow this guide to learn how to update apps manually or turn on automatic updates.

• Update your Apps

WEARABLES

Weables like smartwatches need to be updated too! Please use the following resources to update your wearbles:

• Apple Watch
• Fitbit
• Samsung Gear Line
• Android Wear Devices

Web Browser Updates

Use the Qualys BrowserCheck Tool to check the version of your browsers and popular browser plug-ins (Java, Adobe reader, Acrobat, Flash, etc.) and to get instructions on how to update each. (Note: you do not need to install the plugin to use the browser scan.