Why You Should Update Your Software (and How to Make It Painless)

May 29, 2020

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Keeping your software up to date is one of the simplest things you can do for your devices' security, but a lot of people put it off or don't understand why it matters. This is one of Your Tech Makeover's earliest episodes, recorded in 2020, and the core lesson still applies today.

Frank walks through the difference between minor and major software updates, explains why security patches exist, and covers the easiest ways to make sure your devices and apps stay current, including how to set things to update automatically so you never have to think about it.

In this episode, you'll learn:

  • The difference between a minor update and a major update, and what each one means for you
  • Why security fixes are included in updates and what can happen if you skip them
  • How to check for updates on macOS, Windows, and your phone's apps
  • What to check before installing a major update so nothing gets broken unexpectedly
  • How to turn on automatic updates so your devices stay protected in the background

Note: this episode references a specific software requirement from May 2020 that is no longer relevant. The broader advice is still true: keep your software updated.

Have a topic you'd like Frank to cover? Reach out at frank@yourtechmakeover.com.

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