Forget new features and fancy emojis, software updates are your unsung heroes when it comes to online safety. Yes, they patch annoying bugs and add shiny new features, but their true strength lies in bolstering your digital defenses against ever-evolving threats.
We all know we should update, but in the face of annoying pop-ups and vague upgrade descriptions, it's easy to hit snooze. So, how many of us apply updates in a timely manner? It’s true that software updates can come at the most inconvenient time and it may take a while to take effect. Many people choose to click “ignore” or “remind me later” so they can carry on with business as usual. However, repeatedly delaying software updates can lead to more serious issues further down the line and leave you vulnerable to cyber threats.
Many security vendors, including Gallagher, keep focusing on raising awareness on this timely topic by urging organizations to update their software as soon as they are available.
Our Security Industry Trends Report for 2024 identified that End Users, Channel Partners, and Consultants all recognized the need to strengthen their cybersecurity efforts with an emphasis on upgrades to existing systems. So, let’s dive into the hidden world of software updates and unlock their untapped potential for a more secure digital world.
What is a software update?
A software update, also known as a ‘patch’, is a set of changes made to a software program that is already installed on a computer or other device. These changes fix bugs, improve performance, add new features, or address security vulnerabilities. Updates are typically delivered electronically by the software vendor and can be installed manually or automatically.
Why software updates are important
Software updates are importance for a number of reasons, including:
- Updating old software
- Guarding against security vulnerabilities
- Reducing your cyber risk
Update old software
As of September, in 2023 alone there have been over 800 publicly disclosed global security incidents resulting in an estimated 4.5 billion breached records, significantly up from the estimated 31.5 million breached records in 2022. And although the type of attack may vary, there’s one commonality among the statistics: most are a result of legacy hardware and software.
From a security standpoint, software updates have specific and important implications. When an update includes a fix for security vulnerabilities, devices running out-of-date versions of the software are particularly vulnerable. This allows cybercriminals to know what vulnerabilities exist on a given system and consequently, puts devices running this outdated software version more at risk.
Installing software updates are important to ensure you are running the newest version of software with the latest security improvements and feature enhancements.
Guard against security vulnerabilities
Hackers are constantly searching for weak points to gain entry to sensitive information. Software updates act like reinforcements, ensuring any weak points are secured before they are exploited. A 2022 Ponemon Institute report found that unpatched vulnerabilities were the source of 80% of successful breaches, a chilling statistic that underscores the importance of staying updated.
Reduce cyber risk
Software updates may be the single best way to protect businesses from cyberattacks — a threat that’s increasingly rampant with no signs of slowing down. It is a proactive security measure that reduce the risks for companies to be exposed to cyber-attacks in which cybercriminals target their sensitive data.
Software updates fix security vulnerabilities, but did you know they also fight emerging threats before they even make the headlines? Software companies have dedicated security teams constantly analyzing attack trends and proactively patching software against potential vulnerabilities.
At Gallagher Security, our solutions are designed from inception to be as cyber-secure as possible. We continuously evolve our solutions to meet the changing threat at a software and physical level, building in robust cybersecurity at every stage.
Gallagher carries out internal and external penetration testing during development to identify vulnerabilities before updates or new solutions are released. You just need to implement the regular software updates available across all devices to stay current with cyber threats.
Gallagher has an ongoing program to update our hardware devices. Each generational update is an opportunity for Gallagher to bake in more cybersecurity robustness right down to the hardware level.
Common misconceptions about software updates
Despite the evident benefits of software updates, there are common misconceptions that often discourage users from updating their devices. One common misconception is that updates are unnecessary and merely serve as a marketing tactic to push users into purchasing new software or devices. However, this is far from the truth. Software updates are primarily aimed at improving user experience and enhancing security, rather than forcing users to upgrade their devices.
Another misconception is that updates are time-consuming and disruptive. While it's true that updates can sometimes take a few minutes to install, the benefits they provide far outweigh the temporary inconvenience. Users can schedule updates to occur at a convenient time, such as when they are not actively using their device. Additionally, updates often run in the background, allowing users to continue using their device while the software is being updated.
Lastly, some users believe that updating their software will cause compatibility issues with their existing applications or hardware. While compatibility issues can occasionally arise, developers work diligently to ensure that updates are compatible with a wide range of devices and software. In rare cases where compatibility issues do occur, developers typically release patches to resolve them promptly or provide upgrade pathways.
The risks of not updating software
The risks of not updating software extend beyond user experience. Outdated software is more susceptible to cyber attacks as hackers exploit vulnerabilities that have been discovered but not yet patched. This puts users at a higher risk of having their personal information, such as passwords or financial data, compromised. Additionally, outdated software may lack the latest security features, leaving users more vulnerable to emerging threats.
Best practices for installing software updates
To ensure a smooth and hassle-free software update experience, it is essential to follow best practices when installing updates. Firstly, it is recommended to regularly check for updates manually. While most devices are set to automatically check for updates, it's always a good idea to manually check for any pending updates. This ensures that you are aware of the latest updates available and can install them promptly.
Furthermore, it is crucial to have a stable internet connection when installing updates. Slow or unreliable internet connections can cause updates to fail or take longer to complete. To avoid any complications, ensure that you have a stable internet connection before initiating the update.
Additionally, it is important to be patient during the update process. Depending on the size and complexity of the update, it may take some time to install. Avoid interrupting the process or turning off your device, as this can lead to incomplete installations or potential issues with the software.
Lastly, think outside the desktop. It’s tempting to think of updates as just for our computers, but in today's hyperconnected world, everything from your smart fridge to your fitness tracker needs patching. A Fortinet report revealed that 54% of organizations experienced attacks targeting Internet of Things (IoT) devices. With more and more aspects of our lives going digital, neglecting updates on any device is increases your cyber risk.
By following these best practices, users can ensure a smooth and successful update process, ultimately benefiting from the latest features and security enhancements.
Receive care
With Gallagher Care Plan, you receive regular software updates, so you can ensure your security system is always in sync with the latest technology. For example, by updating to a newer version of Command Centre, you receive richer value and protection with added enhancements, features, integrations, and cybersecurity improvements.
Track the state of the security system over time
If you are a repeat offender of delaying or skipping software updates, fret not. Gallagher offers a Security Health Check (SHC) tool that helps you identify and further understand the vulnerabilities that could reside within your Gallagher security system. Based on the results, a simple and easy to understand summary report is generated that assesses the severity of threats and recommends specific actions to take to mitigate risk. The SHC report prioritizes issues and recommendations to help you plan upgrades effectively and supports funding approval.