PC Updates and Why They Are Important

In a recent survey, it was found that over 81% of the computers across the world have software applications and operating systems installed that are not up-to-date. This percentage is alarming since most software manufacturers not only continuously remind users to regularly update their software, but also make updating a seamless and often an automatic process. The only explanation for not performing computer updates regularly could be that most users simply do not understand the importance of having an updated computer or do not know how to update their computer. This article provides an insight into PC updates and why they are important. If you are using Windows XP or Vista, you can easily keep your operating system updated by using the built-in Automatic Update feature. This feature automatically downloads and installs new updates for your system when they are released by Microsoft. You must ensure that this feature is always enabled on your machine. To check if this feature is selected, go to Start | Control Panel | Security Centre | Automatic Updates. If you are using an older version of Windows, you can perform updates by visiting the Microsoft computer updates section on the Microsoft website. This website will check your computer for updates already installed on it and then list the products that need to be updated. You can then choose the updates you want to download and install on your computer. Keeping your operating system updated with the latest hotfixes, patches and security releases helps in fixing any security loop holes or bugs that may be present in the operating system you are using. Additionally, it also helps in preventing system errors and improves the efficiency of your computer. In addition to your operating system, keep your device drivers up-to-date. Using old drivers can lead to various system errors due to compatibility issues. Outdated drivers can also cause various security issues on the system. You can keep your drivers up-to-date by visiting the website of their manufacturers and installing new updates or by downloading the latest drivers from a free driver download website. However, updating your drivers manually can be quite tedious. Also, it is not the best approach, as you may end up downloading a driver from a dubious source. An easy and more practical approach is to use a reliable driver scanner tool. These tools automate the driver update process and can save you the pain of updating each and every driver manually. Using old software can also cause various errors to appear on your system. Most software applications today come with a feature that allows you to check for new updates and install them if required. Keeping your security software, such as antivirus and antispyware software updated beefs up your system security and makes it less vulnerable to the latest malware programs. Last but not least, it is prudent to regularly check to see if your hardware components, such as RAM, processor, and graphic cards require upgrading. It is essential to have proper hardware configuration with your system requirements. Insufficient hardware configuration not only slows down your system's performance, but may also cause frequent errors. In the end, it is worthwhile to remember that by regularly updating your system and software you can make your system more secure and less prone to errors, will also enhancing its performance.