That familiar notification appears again: Update available. You are busy, your phone or laptop appears to work fine, and the update might need a restart. It’s tempting to press “Remind me later”.
But some updates repair security weaknesses that criminals could exploit. Others fix crashes, improve compatibility or correct problems with battery life and performance. Knowing which updates matter—and where to install them safely—helps you protect your devices without making the process complicated.
Quick answer: Install security updates promptly, enable automatic updates where available, and check whether your device still receives support from its manufacturer. The UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) recommends keeping both device software and apps up to date.
What Does a Software Update Actually Do?
An update changes existing software after its release. Updates may be issued for your operating system (such as Windows, Android or iOS), your web browser, individual apps, or a device’s firmware.
| Type of update | What it does | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Security patch | Fixes a known security vulnerability | Can prevent an attacker from exploiting that particular weakness |
| Bug fix | Corrects software behaving incorrectly | May stop crashes, errors or unusual battery use |
| Compatibility update | Improves how software works with other devices or services | May resolve connection or app problems |
| Feature update | Adds or changes capabilities | May improve usefulness but can require learning new settings |
| Firmware update | Changes software built into hardware such as routers or smart TVs | Can address security and reliability problems in connected equipment |
Not every update makes a device faster, and a feature update is not necessarily as urgent as a patch for an actively exploited vulnerability. Read the manufacturer’s release information when you want to understand a particular update.
Why Security Patches Matter
A vulnerability is a flaw that could allow software to behave in an insecure way. A patch is a correction intended to fix that flaw. If a patch is available but has not been installed, the vulnerable software may still be exposed.
For example, suppose a browser has a weakness that could be triggered by a malicious webpage. Its developer releases a security update. Installing that update can close the specific weakness; ignoring it means the old flaw may remain.
This does not mean every out-of-date device has been hacked, or that updates make you immune to malware. It means keeping software current reduces avoidable risk. Good passwords, two-factor authentication and care with suspicious messages still matter.
How to Check for Updates on Your Device
Use the operating system’s own Settings app or the official manufacturer’s instructions. Menu names may differ by software version or device manufacturer.
| Device | Where to look | Official help |
|---|---|---|
| Windows 11 PC | Start → Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates | Microsoft Support |
| Android phone or tablet | Settings → System → Software update on many devices; Samsung and others may use a different menu | Google Android Help |
| iPhone or iPad | Settings → General → Software Update; check Automatic Updates there too | Apple Support (iPad example) |
| Smart TV, camera or router | Look for a firmware or system update section in the device’s official app or settings | Consult the manufacturer for your exact model |
Apps need attention as well. Check their updates through your normal trusted app store or official software-update mechanism. Some browsers update automatically but still need a restart to finish installing a new version.
Should You Turn On Automatic Updates?
For most home users, yes. Automatic updates reduce the risk of forgetting an important security fix. The NCSC explicitly recommends enabling them where possible.
Automatic does not always mean instant. Downloads may wait for Wi-Fi, sufficient battery, available storage or a restart. It is sensible to check occasionally that updates have installed successfully, especially if a device repeatedly reports an error.
A Simple Five-Minute Update Routine
- Check your backup. Make sure irreplaceable photos, documents and other important files are backed up, especially before a major operating-system upgrade.
- Use a reliable connection. Large downloads can use significant data, so check your broadband or mobile-data allowance.
- Connect power if needed. Avoid the battery running out while an important update installs.
- Install using official settings. Do not download a supposed update from a pop-up on an unfamiliar website.
- Finish the process. Restart when required, then check whether the device says it is up to date.
There is no need to create a new backup manually before every small app update, but maintaining a reliable backup is good practice. Updates normally preserve your files; backup protection is useful because occasional failures can happen.
What If an Update Fails?
Before trying complicated fixes, check these common causes:
| Problem | Safe first step |
|---|---|
| Not enough storage | Remove unneeded files or apps carefully; confirm important files are backed up first |
| Download is stuck | Check internet connectivity and try again using the official update screen |
| Battery or charging warning | Charge the device or connect it to power |
| Restart required | Save your work and restart when convenient |
| Update keeps failing | Use the manufacturer’s support instructions for your specific device and error |
Do not install unofficial firmware, disable security protections at random or factory-reset a device merely because an update is slow. Those actions can introduce new problems or cause data loss.
What Happens When Software Is No Longer Supported?
Manufacturers eventually stop releasing security updates for some products. The device may continue to operate, but newly discovered vulnerabilities may no longer be patched. That is different from having an update waiting to install: the supplier may have stopped providing fixes altogether.
UK readers using Windows 10 should pay particular attention. Microsoft ended standard support for Windows 10 on 14 October 2025. Some devices or organisations may have access to specific extended security update arrangements, so check your actual support status rather than assuming every Windows 10 installation is in the same position. Microsoft recommends moving to a supported Windows version where possible. See Microsoft’s Windows Update information.
If your phone, computer or smart device has reached end of support, consider these questions:
- Does the manufacturer still publish security updates for this exact model and software version?
- Do you use it for banking, email, payments or sensitive personal information?
- Is there a supported upgrade path, or is replacement necessary?
You do not necessarily need the newest or most expensive device. The aim is to use equipment that receives the security support you need. The NCSC guidance also explains the risks of unsupported phones and smart devices.
Don’t Forget Routers and Other Smart Devices
Software lives in more places than computers and phones. Your Wi-Fi router, smart television, doorbell camera or home-security equipment may all need firmware updates.
Check the manufacturer’s app or support website, enable automatic firmware updates where supported, and never install files supplied by an unknown third party. If your home internet is unreliable, our guide to improving Wi-Fi without replacing the router explains how to diagnose coverage and connection problems before buying equipment.
Beware of Fake “Update Your Device” Messages
Scammers know that people are used to update notifications. A webpage may display a dramatic warning that your browser is infected or dangerously out of date and insist you download a “repair tool”. That is not a reliable way to update your device.
If a message looks suspicious, close it and check for updates through your normal device settings or a known official app store. For more warning signs, see how to spot a phishing email before you click and how to check whether a website is safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do software updates always make devices faster?
No. Some updates improve speed, battery life or stability; others mainly address security or add features. New software can also place greater demands on older hardware.
Will an update delete my photos?
Routine updates are intended to preserve personal files, but errors can happen. Keep reliable backups of important photographs and documents.
Why does my device need to restart after an update?
Some system files cannot be replaced safely while they are in use. Restarting allows the device to complete the installation.
Is it risky to keep using an unsupported phone or computer?
The device does not become compromised immediately, but the risk can increase as security flaws go unpatched. Check the manufacturer’s support policy and plan an upgrade when reasonably possible.
Are app updates as important as operating-system updates?
Yes. Browsers, messaging apps, banking apps and other programs can have their own security issues. Keep both the operating system and important apps up to date.
The Bottom Line
Installing updates is one of the simplest ways to reduce avoidable security risks. Enable automatic updates, apply important patches promptly, keep backups, and check that your devices are still supported. Use official update settings rather than unexpected download prompts.
Further reading: NCSC — Install the latest software and app updates.