June 3, 2005

This discussion covers updates and why they are important.

Windows, and most all of your software programs either update automatically or have a link on one of the menus to do updates.  Why are updates important?  Well, there are many reasons.

First of all, with all the pressure on software manufacturers to get the product to market, many times they do not beta test the programs long enough to make sure everything works OK.  Lots of times there are bugs in the program when it is released.  They will issue updates to correct the problems, usually through their web site.

Sometimes when Microsoft updates Windows, and usually when they come out with a new version of Windows, many of the software manufacturers will have to patch their programs in order for them to work properly with the new operating system.  A good example of this is when Windows XP came out, many drivers and programs had to be updated in order for the program to work properly. 

Then, when service pack 2 was issued, there were major software compatibility issues.  Most companies provided updates for their software. 

Hackers are another cause for concern regarding updating.  When they discover a "hole" in the code of a program, they will exploit it with viruses or spyware, so you need the security updates in order to prevent this from happening.

Also, don't forget about firmware updates.  These are programs built into devices such a CD drives, and other hardware.  Firmware tells the computer how to interface with the device.

Now there are some new programs which will help you with updating.  I recommend about once a quarter, you visit the web sites of the vendors of your computer, hardware, and software companies, go to the support area of the site, and check for updates to your stuff.  As I said, most programs have a link on one of the menus for this process and some will check automatically. 

In order to keeps things running smooth, you should keep everything up to date. 

If you have any questions or comments, click