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Neglecting software updates puts you at serious risk of cyber attacks. But staying on top of patching provides critical protection from data-hungry hackers.

Updates Fix Security Flaws

Developers constantly release software updates and patches to address vulnerabilities. Out-of-date programs give hackers easy access points to steal your personal data.

Automate the Update Process

Manually checking and installing updates on all your devices is tedious and time consuming. Take advantage of automation tools that make patching efficient and hassle-free:

• Windows Update automatically handles system patches for Windows PCs in the background.
• The Software Update utility keeps Mac computers up-to-date effortlessly.
• Linux package managers like apt for Ubuntu can install security fixes for multiple programs at once.
• Mobile device operating systems like iOS and Android nag you to install important updates and make it quick and easy.
• Individual apps like web browsers may have built-in updaters that fetch the latest secure versions.

Enable auto-updating everywhere you can so you always have the most recent software fixes.

Update All Your Software

It’s not just operating systems and browsers that need updating. Keep firmware, apps, plugins, and utilities up-to-date across all of your devices. Be thorough about keeping all software on all your devices updated:

• Firmware is low-level software that controls specific device hardware like routers, printers, and monitors. Firmware updates add features and fix bugs.
• Plugins are add-on programs that extend web browser functionality, like Flash or Java. Keep them updated to close vulnerabilities.
• Utilities are software tools for specialized tasks like compression or media playback. Patching them eliminates exploits.

Neglecting to update any program on any device opens up opportunities for hackers to steal data or access systems. Cast a wide net when patching!

The Easy Button for Updates

I know the question on your mind and keeping all your software updated can sound daunting. But modern tools make patching simple:

• Enable auto-updates in System Preferences on Macs and Windows Update settings on PCs so you don’t have to think about it.
• The App Store on iPhones and iPads updates your apps automatically. The Play Store does the same for Android.
• winget is a command line package manager included in Windows 10 and 11 that installs updates with one command.
• The Microsoft Store and Mac App Store update all apps from those stores seamlessly.
• Browser extension dashboards conveniently update all your plugins at once.
• Sign up for vendor email alerts about new updates for specific hardware like routers.

By leveraging these set-it-and-forget-it update options, you can painlessly stay on top of patches. Just a few minutes of initial setup makes the process easy.

Get Protection You Can Trust

Empower yourself against cyber attacks by subscribing to our [software and security newsletters] for home users. You’ll get weekly update reminders so hackers can’t exploit any weaknesses.