If your computer or connected device alerts you to the availability of new critical system updates, don’t ignore them. Instead, install them as soon as possible.
Windows computers can get critical system updates from the Microsoft Update website (note that you must use Internet Explorer to obtain updates in this way). Visit Microsoft’s Updating Your Computer page for an overview of this feature.
Apple computers can get critical system updates from the Apple Support Downloads website. For a chronology of updates since 2003 and earlier, visit the Apple Security Updates site.
Tip: Set the frequency on checking for Apple updates at: Apple main menu > System Preferences > Software Update.
Besides your OS and its associated software, be sure to keep other programs and apps up to date.
Running the most current version of your browser is key to protecting your computer against Internet threats like spyware and other nefarious hacker exploits. When asked to accept an update, be sure to do so. Note that some browsers will always check for the latest version. Here is a list of the top four browsers and how they handle updates:
- Firefox: Configure it to auto-check for updates at Tools > Options > Advanced > Update > Automatically check for updates to (Window only)
- Google Chrome: Automatically checks for updates by default (See Google Chrome and Browser Security)
- Internet Explorer: Configure it to auto-check for updates at Tools > Internet Options > Advanced > Browsing > Automatically check for IE updates
- Safari: Takes advantage of Apple Software Update and checks for the latest versions of Safari when you’re on the Internet. it is recommended that Windows users install Software Update for Windows to keep Safari and other Apple software up-to-date.