L’software update of our electronic devices is an operation that we carry out regularly and, in addition to involving smartphones, tablets and PCs, it affects practically all the technological “trinkets” in our possession. Regarding this “routine” procedure, many wonder: Is updating electronic devices bad or good?
In general, we can say that installing system updates and the different applications you use is important both for security and for the correct functioning of the devices. This operation, in fact, does not involve any particular risks, provided that you pay attention to a few simple precautions, in particular by installing updates when the device is connected to the mains and only after making a backup.
Why updating electronic devices is useful
A software update is essentially a new version of an operating system or application, which usually includes fixes (literally “patches”) to resolve any security issues, improve performance, and sometimes make aesthetic improvements to the user interface. It is for these reasons that Updating Your Electronics Definitely Helps.
On the front of securityFor example, software updates are one of the most effective weapons to counter cyberattacks from cybercriminals. Indeed, over time, hackers (or, better yet, crackers) find new methods to breach previously inaccessible security systems. If they manage to break into a system, they can spy on the activities of the unfortunate victim, perhaps planting dangerous malware without their knowledge.
Correct the zero-day vulnerability (i.e. vulnerabilities in software which are not yet known to its developers or which, in any case, are known by them but not fixed), software updates significantly raise security standards devices, making them more difficult to attack.
As for the correction of what is called ” insects “or errors in the software code that can compromise their correct operation, this improves the usability of the system and the applications used by eliminating various types of problems, including accident and sudden slowdowns, less than optimal battery usage, and difficulty connecting to Wi-Fi.
One last positive aspect we mention concerns casual workers aesthetic and functional improvements which are included in software updates. Some updates − called in jargon major update (literally “important update”) − bring changes to the graphics and design of the elements visible in the interface (e.g. buttons and icons) or introduce new functions.
It must be said, however, that sometimes particularly “large” system updates, full of many new features and aesthetic innovations, can have the opposite effect from a performance point of view, slowing down devices (especially if they are relatively old) . This is what we call the phenomenon of planned obsolescence.
How to avoid problems during a software update
Ultimately, we want to highlight this aspect: Updating device software is a tricky operation which must be carried out according to the methods provided by the manufacturer.
In fact, there are some possible risks associated with updating software that must be taken into account to avoid potential problems, such as data loss. To minimize these problems, we advise you to pay attention to the following points.
- Before installing an update, make a backup complete with the data. If something goes wrong during the update, it will be possible to restore the backup and return the situation to normal, eliminating the risk of irretrievable loss of files and data.
- Download the software update once there connected to a Wi-Fi network (if possible). This way you will not erode the data available in your phone plan and you will avoid possible additional charges from your operator.
- Connect the device to the power supply so that it does not turn off during the update (this can lead to potential data loss).
