Software updates can feel like an interruption. They appear at inconvenient times and take a few minutes to finish. But keeping your software up to date is one of the most important things you can do to keep your computer safe and running smoothly.
Why Do Updates Exist?
Updates do several things at once. They fix security problems that hackers have found and could use to get into your computer. They fix bugs that cause programs to crash or behave strangely. They also sometimes add new features. The security fixes are the most important reason to update promptly.
What Happens If I Skip Updates?
When a software company discovers a security flaw, they release a fix in an update. They also publicly announce what the flaw was, which means hackers now know exactly how to attack computers that have not updated yet. Delaying updates leaves a known door open for attackers.
Which Updates Matter Most?
- Your operating system (Windows or macOS) — These are the most important. Update as soon as you reasonably can.
- Your web browser — You use it constantly, so it needs to be current. Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari all update themselves automatically if you let them.
- Your phone — Phone updates matter just as much as computer updates.
- Other programs — Things like Adobe Reader, Office, and media players should also be kept current.
How to Turn on Automatic Updates
On Windows 11, go to Settings, then Windows Update, and make sure automatic updates are turned on. On a Mac, go to System Settings, then General, then Software Update, and turn on automatic updates.
On a Mac, the Software Update screen should let you confirm that automatic updates are on.
How to Check for Updates on Each Device
You can check for updates by hand at any time. Names and places vary by device and version.
- iPhone: Go to Settings, then General, and then Software Update.
- Android phone: Go to Settings, then look for Software update or About phone. Check for updates there, and look for an automatic option.
- Windows PC: See the Windows section below.
- Mac: Use the System Settings steps in the automatic updates section above.
On each device, the update screen should tell you whether it is up to date, or offer an update to install.
Warning: fake update pop-ups. Pop-ups that say “update now” in a web browser or on a website are a common scam. Never update from a pop-up, or from a link in an email or text message. Update only through your device’s own settings or its official app store. If you see one of these pop-ups, close it and check through the settings yourself.
Windows
Windows 11 version 24H2 Home and Pro editions stop receiving updates on 13 October 2026, so check which version you have and plan an update before then.
Microsoft sends out security updates on the second Tuesday of every month, often called “Patch Tuesday.” These are the most important ones to install promptly.
To check for updates by hand on Windows 11, follow these steps. Names and places vary by version.
- Click the Start button.
- Click Settings (the gear icon).
- Click Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
You should then see a message saying whether your computer is up to date.
On Windows 10, which is past standard support, the update settings may be in a different place. Look for something similar in your Settings app, because names and places vary by version. Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates for a limited time. Check Microsoft’s support pages for current options and dates.
Some updates cannot fully install until your computer restarts. Windows needs to change core system files, which it cannot do while they are in use. The restart lets it finish. You can usually choose a more convenient time for the restart. Look in the Windows Update settings for options that let you choose a convenient time. Names vary by version.
Optional updates are usually driver updates for hardware such as printers or graphics cards. You do not need to install them unless you have a problem with that specific device. Security and quality updates, however, are worth installing as soon as you can.
Is It Safe to Update Right Away?
For most people, yes. Occasionally a new update has a bug, but that is rare. The risk of not updating is far greater than the small chance an update causes a temporary issue. If you are cautious, waiting a week before installing a major update is a reasonable middle ground.
A simple rule: if an update is described as a security update or a critical fix, install it as soon as you can. New major releases sometimes have bugs that are found after launch and quickly fixed, and waiting a short while lets those early fixes arrive.
Think of updates as regular maintenance — like changing the oil in a car. Skipping them saves time now but causes bigger problems later.
Before You Install a Major Update
A big update, such as a new version of Windows or a new version of your phone’s operating system, is worth a little more care. Before you install one:
- Back up your device first, just in case. Keep the copy in your cloud account or on an external drive.
- Make sure your device has enough battery. Plug it in if you can.
Last updated: October 9, 2026