KEEP YOUR SOFTWARE UPDATED
Out-of-date software is vulnerable to cyber attacks by cybercriminals. They “study” software code for security holes that allow them to infiltrate your computer. The software company may have already fixed the security holes, but if you have not installed the updates, you are still vulnerable.
Luckily, there are ways to automate the update process:
- 1. Microsoft Windows - Windows 10/11 downloads and installs security fixes for your Microsoft software once a week, as well as new feature releases twice a year.
NOTE: Windows 7 is now a vulnerable operating system because it is no longer supported / fixed by Microsoft. - 2. Third-party software - Non-Microsoft software is not updated by Windows. I install the Heimdal Thor Software Updater program to automate this process for you. Once installed and configured, it requests security fixes and and updates for third-party software and installs them in the background with no action required from you.
- 3. Drivers and Firmware: This special class of software makes the hardware on your computer work. Updated drivers are offers as optional Windows updates and/or from your manufacturer’s support assistant program.
NOTE: Never use a “free driver updater” since these are offered by cybercriminals in order to spy on your computer.
If you are not sure if your software and drivers are up-to-date, call to have us check it for you.
I am committed to protect your computers at an affordable price. Thank you for trusting me to keep your computers healthy. Contact us at 239-567-0104 when it is time to renew your protection software, or if you need computer and internet help. Be well.
By Linda Lindquist, June 13, 2022
