To take action : 5–15 min, excluding downloads and restarts · Depending on your devices and accounts
You never update your devices?
Install available fixes and check that your devices still receive support.
PatchYourself · Last editorial revision : · Sources
Fictional example: an everyday situation
An update reminder appears on Lou’s phone every evening. She chooses a time when the device can restart and then checks that installation has finished.
The problem
Updates can add features, fix bugs and close security weaknesses. An available fix protects a device only after installation. It does not remove every risk, but reduces exposure to the defects it addresses.
Devices, apps, browsers and routers each have their own maintenance. A device that no longer receives security fixes needs particular attention.
What to do now
Step 1: Open update settings
On Windows, open Settings → Windows Update, check for updates and confirm they are not paused. The option to receive new features earlier is not required for normal security updates.
On macOS, iPhone and Android, search settings for “Update”. Names and automatic-update options depend on the model and version.
Step 2: Enable automatic installation where offered
Choose a suitable time and maintain sufficient battery and free space. Save work before restarting. For a work device, follow your organization’s process.
Step 3: Check apps and the browser
Open the official app store and the browser’s “About” page. Remove software you no longer use after checking whether it holds data you need to keep.
Step 4: Check product support
Consult the provider to see which versions remain supported. If your device no longer receives fixes, prepare to move to a supported version or device. Back up data before a major migration.
Go further
Known weaknesses and zero-days
A known vulnerability may already have a fix. Zero-day generally describes a flaw unknown to the provider or lacking an available fix when exploited. Updates therefore cannot protect against every attack.
Check the source
A web page that suddenly reports an infection and offers an update may be fraudulent. Open the software’s own settings or official store to check.
Sources and verification
References used for this revision. Menus and offers can change; consult the provider’s help for your version.