Turn on automatic software updates

Estimated reading time
 4 min

Key points

• Software updates can help strengthen the protection of your devices to ensure your device runs smoothly and has the most up-to-date protection available.
  
  
• Automatic software updates can help reduce the likelihood of a criminal getting into your device and alert you to suspicious activity, such as accidentally downloading a corrupted file or app.
  
  
• You can turn on automatic software updates in your device’s system settings or by typing in ‘automatic software updates’ in your device’s search bar. 

When you’re on the go with your business or busy looking after the grandkids, taking the time and effort to update your devices might be the last thing on your mind.

But having up-to-date software on all your devices can be a quick win for online safety. And the best part? You can set up automatic software updates and go back to doing what you love, knowing that your device’s software is helping to keep you safe.

“To stay ahead of cyber threats, keeping your software up to date is a highly effective measure,” says Sushma Bhandary, ANZ’s Journey Expert in Security Operations, Intel and Influence.

That’s why we’re covering some of the basics of software, so you can feel safe and confident when you’re online.

What are software updates?

In its simplest form, software is a set of instructions, data or programs that your device uses to operate and do specific tasks. For example, the notes app on your phone is a piece of software that lets you jot down notes.

Software updates provide new and improved functionality for your apps and devices, while addressing existing issues, such as bugs and crashes. The developers often continue to improve their products to help keep you safe from new viruses and malware. So, it’s important to keep your apps and devices up-to-date.

“Software updates often fix vulnerabilities in your application software or device's operating system and software through patches,” Sushma explains. “These patches are sets of changes applied to your device's programs, including the operating system and apps, to update, fix, or improve them. Any device that uses software, such as your phone, tablet, smartwatch, or computer, requires regular software updates for both its operating system and apps to ensure they stay safe and secure.”

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Why are software updates important?

Updating your software regularly helps ensure your apps and devices are up-to-date and protected against security threats. A critical patch is an important update that fixes big device issues, like addressing security weaknesses. The developer wants you to install these patches as soon as they’re available to ensure your device is secure.

Automatic software updates can help reduce the likelihood of hackers getting into your device through malware, which is harmful software that can steal data, lock files, and damage your device’s systems.

“Because the latest software patch and update information is available online, cybercriminals can become aware of potential gaps that they can exploit,” Sushma says. “So, when you don’t install the latest patch or update, you’re helping hackers get one step closer to your device. At the end of the day, one of the best things you can do to help stay safe from these criminals is keeping your software up to date.”

How to set up automatic software updates

The easiest way to set up automatic device is through your system settings:

• Go to your system settings.
  
  
• Head to ‘general settings’ or ‘software update’ – this will be based on your device and program.
  
  
• Turn on automatic updates.

You can also type in ‘automatic software updates’ in the search bar on your device to go there straight away.

Another security option is to invest in security software, to regularly detect anything suspicious, like a computer virus, or help filter spam calls or emails. Some software can back up your data and files in the event your device’s system becomes compromised. 

How to make the most of automatic updates

While software updates ensure your device has improved functionality and protection from malware, here are four ways you can make the most of automatic updates:

1. Turn on automatic updates on all your devices – even the ones you don’t use that often! This can ensure you’re getting the latest security features as they become available.
   
   
2. Just installed additional security software? Then run a full scan on your devices to check if there’s anything suspicious you need to be aware of. Most security software will also help you remove suspicious apps or malware that might be lurking.
   
   
3. If your security software detects something but can’t remove it, contact the manufacturer of the device (the brand) that’s been compromised. If you can’t get in contact with them, then contact an IT professional or cybersecurity specialist to remove the suspicious activity for you.
   
   
4. Whether it’s a physical hard drive or online, back up your data and files regularly. This can come in handy if any of your files are deleted or damaged from a virus or malware.

Stay cyber safe on all your devices

Turning on automatic software updates will go a long way in helping you to stay safe online. Here are some other ways you can be cyber safe:

• Pause before you share personal information with another person or website.
  
  
• Activate multiple layers of security to help keep your accounts and data safe.
  
  
• Call out any suspicious messages – chances are it’s a scam that you can report.