Is updating technology a bad thing?
There tend to be two types of technology
users in the world—those that update their devices as soon as a patch or upgrade is released, and those that hang on to their device as is, never performing updates because they don’t like change or are skeptical of what the update actually entails. After all, sometimes they work and sometimes they don’t. But is updating the technology on your device always the best thing to do? Here are some tips of when to update and when you might want to hold off a little while longer.
Software update versus software upgrade
The term ‘software update’ is often confused with the term ‘software upgrade’. Though both the terms sound similar, there is a huge difference. A “software update” updates your existing version of the program to the current version, but does not upgrade it to the next major version. For example, when you install Service Pack 1 on your Windows 7 computer, you are actually updating your Windows 7 computer with minor software updates that don’t change the look and feel of the system.
On the other hand, a “software upgrade” allow you to upgrade a program to its next major version. For example, if you are moving from Windows Vista® to Windows 7, you are actually performing a software upgrade. Upgrades are usually noticeable changes, where the user interface looks different and commonly-used features may have been moved to different locations. A software update usually comes free and there’s usually a cost for a software upgrade.
Security vulnerability patches
When security patches for your device are released, it’s always a best practice to install the updates. Security-based updates help prevent hackers from accessing your device and possibly gaining access to sensitive information. Companies are constantly on the move to stay ahead of hackers and release these patches more often than other updates. If you’re on a Windows-based machine, you might find Microsoft’s guide to updating your computer helpful.
Bug fixes
A ‘bug’ refers to unintended mistakes done by the programmer which causes the program to give unexpected results and errors. Whenever new bugs are found and reported, developers create fixes and offer them as a part of the software update. These updates are helpful because they can help programs run more efficiently when used.
Mac operating systems
Apple is known for pushing out updates on a regular basis and has a history of releasing a new operating system each year. While Apple’s updates tend to be good for the user, they aren’t always the best option for the user’s device. For instance, Apple’s Mavericks operating system is not the best choice for older Mac computers. Older Mac computers have experienced issues with Mavericks because their device does not have enough RAM to run efficiently. The result? A slow, lagging computer with the dreaded spinning beach ball that never seems to stop. When Apple released iOS 5 in 2011, the new operating system contained a bug that caused devices to lose Wi-Fi access. While the problem was quickly fixed, it’s sometimes best to leave major operating system upgrades alone until the initial bugs can be taken care of.
Beta software and systems
Unless you are a tech-savvy individual, it’s best to leave beta versions of software and operating systems alone. Beta software and operating systems are the first versions of a new product aimed at users who don’t mind experimenting with new products and are willing to provide feedback to developers to fix bugs before the product is released to the public. Currently, Apple has OS Yosemite out in beta and some users have taken advantage of using the new operating system. However, users have reported problems with internet access once they upgraded. While the problem is sure to be fixed, users are left on the developer’s timeframe, and not their own.
What should I do?
In general, keeping your device updated is always a best practice. In my opinion, I always wait about two weeks before taking advantage of major software upgrades to let the developers iron out any remaining bugs. But, if you ever have questions about whether or not to perform updates, upgrades, or patches, you can contact the Technology Service Desk at 278-5200.
Image by Ryan Gay
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