Many of you have probably seen the word “update” or a message while operating your computer or smartphone.
Not updating your apps and OS increases security risks.
On the other hand, the current situation is that many people feel that they can use the app without updating, or that they would not like it if updates change the specifications of the app and make it difficult to use.
In this article, we will explain the meaning and purpose of updating and the precautions and preparations for updating.
By reading to the end, you should be able to understand the “importance and necessity of updating” and “procedures for updating.”
What is an update?
First, I will introduce the meaning and examples of updates.
What is an update?
“Update” is a word that means “to update” or “to bring to the latest state.”
In the IT world, it means keeping software and apps up to date to fix defects and implement new features.
- What are software and apps?
Software and apps are programs that run on a computer. App is an abbreviation for “application software” and is a type of software. Software is a broader concept than an app. An app is software programmed for a specific purpose, and examples include Microsoft Word/Excel/PowerPoint and LINE. Application software for smartphones is sometimes referred to as “app,” and software for computers is sometimes referred to as “software.” Software and app updates occur from time to time, and may occur automatically.
Differences from version upgrade
“Version upgrade” is a word that is often confused with update. We have summarized the differences between updates and version upgrades.
| update |
To update a portion of an existing program version. This is done to fix bugs and improve security. When it comes to cars and motorcycles, it can be compared to “maintenance.” (Example) Update from macOS Venture 13.4 to macOS Ventura 13.5 |
| Version upgrade |
To update the entire program to a new version. The usability of apps and software often changes significantly as new features are added or old features are removed. In terms of cars and motorcycles, this can be compared to “replacing parts.” Upgrading also refers to replacing your existing software with a higher-level or newer version. (Example) Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 |
Updates are usually small and version upgrades are large.
There is a word “upgrade” that is used interchangeably with version upgrade, and Apple and Microsoft express it as “upgrade”.
Update price
Updates are basically free.
In the case of paid updates, “Information about fees” and “Payment screen” will be displayed when downloading, so be sure not to overlook them.
However, even with free updates, “data communication charges” will occur.
If you have a flat-rate internet connection (such as unlimited gigabytes), you don’t have to worry about additional communication charges. If you do not have a flat rate plan, please be aware that you may be charged usage fees due to the large amount of data communication associated with updates.
Update example
As a specific example of updates, we will introduce “Windows Update”.
Windows Update is one type of “OS update” that updates Windows, the OS (operating system) of your computer, and there are two main types:
| Feature updates | This is a major update that includes new features and security updates. |
| quality updates | Contains minor fixes and security updates. |
Many of you may have seen a message saying “Update and Shut Down” or “Update and Restart” when you try to turn off your computer running Windows. When you see the message above, you know that Windows Update has downloaded the update.
Since Windows Update is basically automatic, many general users may not be aware of the details of the updates. You can check what specific program updates are being performed by following the steps below (for Windows 11).
1. Click the start button
2. Click on settings (gear mark)
3. Click “Windows Update” displayed at the top or “Update & Security” at the bottom of the page after scrolling down.
4. Click “View update history”
5. Click on the history you want to check
There are mainly two types of updates.
Updates are broadly divided into two types: “firmware updates” and “software updates.”
Firmware update
Firmware update is updating software called firmware to the latest version.
- What is firmware?
Software that is pre-installed in a device to control a specific device such as a computer. In addition to computers and smartphones, it is also installed in home appliances, digital cameras, game consoles, and in-vehicle devices. It is called “software that runs hardware.” It is pre-installed by the manufacturer and is not intended to be rewritten or modified by the user. Users are unlikely to even be aware of the existence of firmware.
Firmware updates are carried out when “a serious defect is found” or “when it is necessary to support a new OS,” and update files are distributed by each manufacturer. However, there are many firmwares that have not been updated since their release.
Firmware updates can occur automatically or manually. Here is an example of how to manually update the firmware of a device connected to the Internet.
1. Check the model number of your device (computer or smartphone)
2. Find out how to update on the manufacturer’s official website
3. Download and run the update
Methods vary depending on the manufacturer. If you receive a firmware update notification from the manufacturer, please check the official website for instructions on how to update.
Firmware updates often take time, but avoid turning off the power during the update. If you turn off the power during the update, your device may not work properly.
OS Update
<br/> Similar to firmware, there is an OS, and the OS is also updated as needed. OS updates are sometimes called “system updates.”
- What is OS (Operating System)?
Basic software to run computers and smartphones. It is called “software that provides a place to run software” or “software that connects devices and users.” Firmware is sometimes compared to the “foundation” and the OS to the “building.” It also differs from firmware in that users can install and uninstall the OS themselves. Windows and iOS updates are basically automatic.
There are two ways to update Android to the latest OS: “Update from automatic notification” and “Manual update.” If you have turned off automatic notifications, you can update them using the following method.
How to update to the latest OS on Android
1. Tap Settings
2. Tap device information (device management, version information, etc.)
3. Tap on Software Update
4. Tap Software Update (Software Update, Update Now, etc.)
5. Tap Install > OK
For Android smartphones, the notation in the settings menu varies depending on the manufacturer. For more information, please check each manufacturer’s official website.
Software update
Software update refers to updating the software and apps installed on your computer or smartphone. When updating each app installed on a smartphone, it is sometimes called an “app update.”
For software other than the OS (such as apps you installed on your smartphone), manually update them from the App Store or Google Play Store. Additionally, when you open an app that can be updated, you may receive a message that says, “The latest version is available. Please update.”
Apps downloaded from the App Store app are automatically updated by default, but you can also update them manually by turning off automatic uploads.
To turn off automatic updates, the following steps are required:
1. Select “App Store” from “Settings”
2. Turn off “App updates”
We will show you how to manually update installed apps.
How to update installed apps on the App Store
1. Open the App Store
2. Tap the profile icon on the top right
3. Check “Available Updates”
4. If you want to update only a specific app, tap “Update” next to the app. To update all apps that can be updated, tap “Update All”
Automatic updates are recommended for apps downloaded from the Google Play Store.
To turn off automatic updates, the following steps are required:
1. Open the “Google Play Store app” and tap the profile icon on the top right
2. Tap Settings > Network Settings > Auto-update apps to turn it off.
Follow the steps below to manually update installed apps.
How to update installed apps on Google Play Store
1. Open Google Play Store
2. Tap the profile icon on the top right
3. Manage apps and devices > Tap Manage
4. Tap the app you want to update from among the apps that are displayed as “Updates available”
5. Tap Update
However, if the OS is too old, you may not be able to update the app. If you are having trouble updating the app, please make sure your OS is up to date.
The details of updates for each app are listed in the release notes (updates, latest information) on each app’s page in the store. The release notes include a history of modifications, such as “Changed the popup color” and “Fixed a problem that caused the screen to freeze.”
Name of update by version
Each time software is updated, it is managed using numbers such as “ver1.1.2,” “ver1.1.3,” “ver1.2.0,” and “ver2.0.0.”
The name of the number changes depending on whether the integer (the leftmost number) or the number after the decimal point becomes larger.
major update
If the integer increases, it is called a major update and is a large update. For example, updating from “ver3.6.5” to “ver4.0.0” is a major update.
There is no clear definition of the content or scale of a major update, but examples include “addition of new features”, “specification changes”, and “security enhancements”.
Major updates may significantly change the basic functionality and usability of software/apps.
Minor update
Updates that increase the number after the decimal point are called minor updates. For example, updating from “ver3.6.5” to “ver3.6.6” or “ver.3.7.0” is a minor update.
Similar to major updates, there is no clear definition of what is included in a minor update. Examples include “improving functionality,” “fixing minor bugs,” and “providing security patches.”
- What is a security patch?
A program distributed to fix security flaws (vulnerabilities) in operating systems and software. By applying patches, you can keep your OS and software safe. A patch is a piece of cloth that covers holes in clothing. It’s easy to imagine this if you think of “plugging holes (problems) in software with security patches.”
Update frequency
Update frequency varies depending on the OS and app. For example, the update frequency for iOS and Android is as follows.
| iOS | Major updates occur once a year (usually in September). Minor updates occur about 10 times a year. |
| Android | Major updates occur about once a year. Minor updates occur about once to three times a year, but this varies depending on the manufacturer. |
Since the OS of Android smartphones is arranged by manufacturer, the number of updates varies depending on the manufacturer.
Purpose of update
Some people may feel that they don’t understand the purpose of taking the time to update the OS and apps.
Why are updates performed in the first place? Introducing the purpose of the update.
Enhanced security
The first purpose of the update is to strengthen security.
As technology advances, programs that threaten the safety of computers and smartphones are being created one after another. Additionally, as time passes after the release of an OS or application, vulnerabilities are often discovered.
One of the important purposes of updates is to fix vulnerabilities and stay resistant to the latest attack techniques.
Fixed bugs and defects
Updates can fix problems with the OS and apps.
Examples of problems include “the screen freezes or the app closes when performing certain operations” or “it takes too long to operate.”
Even if software is repeatedly tested when it is released, defects are often found when users actually use it.
When a defect is found, the vendor (developer, manufacturer) will distribute a program to resolve the problem. Updating allows the software to work properly.
By operating normally, there may be benefits such as “improved operating speed” and “better battery life.”
Adding new features
Updates add new features to the OS and apps, improving convenience. This is because updates include the addition of new features that reflect user needs.
Updates may also improve usability by changing the UI (user interface) design. Updates also have an important meaning in improving business efficiency.
Continuation of manufacturer support
Updating also has the benefit of continuing to receive support from the developer.
There are many cases where support for an older version is discontinued after a new version is released. For example, support for Windows 10 is scheduled to end on October 14, 2025.
Once support ends, updates will no longer occur, leaving you vulnerable to new security risks. Therefore, it is necessary to update or switch to a supported version.
Risk of not updating
The risk of not updating is that you will not be able to benefit from the “purpose of updating” mentioned earlier. Please update appropriately to reduce risks.
Increased risk of virus infection or attack
If you do not update your OS, your risk of being damaged by a cyber attack increases. Specific damage may include the following:
As the methods of cyberattacks are evolving day by day, it is necessary to update your computer and smartphone to strengthen their security.
Problem not resolved
If you use the device without updating the OS or apps, you will not be able to resolve problems such as the screen suddenly freezing or the battery draining quickly.
If operations cannot be performed smoothly, it may lead to a decrease in productivity in business settings. Even in your private life, if your smartphone is behaving strangely, you will be irritated and stressed.
Can’t use new features
If you do not update, you will also have the disadvantage of not being able to use newly released features. You may lose opportunities to improve efficiency with new features, and you may find yourself out of touch with users who are already using the new features.
Additionally, software and apps will be developed to fit the “mainstream OS”. Therefore, there are disadvantages such as “If you do not update the OS, some apps will not work properly.”
Points to note when updating
There are some things to keep in mind when updating. Please note that if you update carelessly, important data on your device may be deleted.
Take a backup to prevent data loss due to unexpected problems
Basically, updates do not erase data on your device. Photos and videos you have taken, contacts, app settings, etc. will remain as they are.
However, if the update fails, you may end up in situations such as “data on the device disappearing” or “the device needs to be initialized.” Make sure to back up important data.
We will show you how to back up your data using Windows 11’s “Backup and Restore (Windows 7)” feature.
1. Open control panel
2. Click “Backup and Restore (Windows 7)” from “System and Security”
3. Click “Backup settings”
4. Select backup destination
5. Select data to back up (automatic selection is also possible)
6. Check settings
7. Change backup schedule if necessary
8. Click “Save settings and run backup”
Check free space on your device
If your device does not have enough free space, you will not be able to update. In particular, smartphones tend to run out of free space, so be sure to check the free space before updating.
The method to check the free space is as follows (for iPhone).
1. Tap Settings
2. Select General > iPhone Storage
The method for checking free space on Android differs depending on the manufacturer, so please check the official website of each manufacturer.
If you do not have enough space for updates, the methods you can use are as follows.
- What is cloud storage?
A storage location for files on the Internet. Some services are available for free.
Charge the battery so it doesn’t run out midway
We recommend updating while charging to avoid running out of battery during the update. If the update takes a long time and the device turns off before the update is complete, there is a risk that the update will fail or data will be erased.
Please note that your computer, smartphone, or app may become unusable during the update. Please be aware that it may take some time to update, so update when you have time.
Connect to Wi-Fi in preparation for large amounts of data communication.
During updates, large amounts of data may be transferred. Therefore, we recommend working in a Wi-Fi environment instead of using mobile communication.
When updating via mobile communication, the following disadvantages may occur.
Make sure you have a Wi-Fi environment, especially if you are doing a major update that requires a lot of data.
For business use, check in a test environment
When updating software used for work, we recommend that you first update it in a test environment and check its operation. This is because updates can cause long business interruptions or cause compatibility issues.
- What is compatibility?
Even if one product (such as an old OS) is replaced with another product (such as a new version of the OS), it can still be used in the same way as before.
Especially in the case of major updates, there is a high possibility that compatibility will be broken. For example, a situation may occur where, after updating the OS, apps that were previously available no longer work properly.
To avoid this situation, first install the update program on the verification PC. We recommend that you wait a few days to a few weeks to confirm that it can be used without any problems before updating in the production environment.
summary
If you neglect to update your computer or smartphone, security risks may increase, problems may remain unresolved, and new features may not be available. In order to use computers, smartphones, and apps safely and comfortably, it is important not to postpone updates.
In particular, we recommend that you promptly perform updates related to security (security updates). Also, updates that are highly urgent will be released as “urgent updates,” so in such cases, you should consider taking immediate action.
Please note that updates may be discontinued if your device or OS is too old. Security risks will increase, so if you are using an old device or OS, please consider purchasing a new device or changing/upgrading the OS before support ends.