Software patches are much more than pesky reminders to update and restart your computer. These often-ignored acts of regular PC maintenance frequently mean the difference between a happy experience using technology, and a miserable one.
Throughout its lifetime, any piece of software will run into problems, commonly referred to as “bugs.” These problems may cause the program to malfunction under certain conditions, or compromise its security in a manner unforeseeable at the time of the program’s original writing.
What is a software patch?
Software companies routinely issue updates, called software “patches,” to fix the bugs within the software. Unfortunately, many computer users dismiss them as mere annoyances, and they are never installed.
We get it: Installing software patches can be annoying. You’re at your desk, typing away and finding a rhythm to your work when an insistent little pop-up materializes on your desktop, demanding you stop to install an update and restart your PC.
As frustrating as it may be, heed our advice: Install software updates as soon as the manufacturer issues them. This habit is one of the basic IT best practices.
There is a long list of good reasons to install patches right away, but here are our top 3:
1. More features and improved functionality
Software patches aren’t created strictly to address security flaws or subtle coding issues in the program’s background. Sometimes, these updates include new tools or features that improve the functionality of the product. Since you’re already paying for the software and its associated support, you may as well use the best version of the software available. Take two minutes, download the software patch, and get the most value for your dollar.
2. Better performance
Have you ever used a program that took forever to load? What about a program that crashed on a routine basis? These are performance issues, and software developers create software patches to improve performance all the time.
Are you having issues with a particular piece of software that does not function as it should? Check the manufacturer’s website to see if they’ve issued a software patch for that program. This could very well be the answer to your problems.
3. Enhanced security
Software patches are designed to protect against threatware you may not even be aware of, such as zero-day vulnerabilities and system backdoors. Keeping your systems updated may help prevent a data breach. We can’t stress how important these updates are to maintaining a safe and secure experience as a computer user.
One way around this is to enable your machine to automatically download and install software patches. Windows 10 offers users the ability to schedule updates and software patches for specific dates and/or times. This means you can have your PC download software patches when you aren't using it.
Jordan Weber
