The Benefits and Pitfalls of Updates

June 14, 2015 3:15 pm

Daniel Prestwood

There is a lot to be said about this topic and the importance of keeping your software up to date, but sometimes an update can wreak havoc on your productivity. Updates are rolled out by companies when they locate an error in their programming or have a solution to a security vulnerability that was discovered. It may also add functionality to current software or resolve compatibility issues between different programs. However, a new update brings the possibility of its own new range of vulnerabilities and compatibility errors. There is also the chance of introducing unintended security vulnerabilities to the table by installing 3rd party toolbars and extensions that are automatically checked for installation when updating items like Adobe. Case in point, Java updates attach an optional installation of
the Ask.com toolbar for your web browser.

java

It was recently discovered that this toolbar contains a wide variety of security vulnerabilities that can make your systems susceptible to attacks. This toolbar in particular can be also be quite a nuisance to completely remove from a workstation resulting in time and productivity loss.

Other pitfalls can occur when a Windows update is rolled out and contains errors in the programming that may cause the system to crash. When these errors occur they can be resolved by rolling back the updates and running the system on the previous versions until the errors have been identified and corrected by the software manufacturers.

While it is always recommended to keep your software and operating systems up to date, M&H would implore you to let us handle your updating needs to help avoid any unnecessary downtime or added security threats! If you have any questions about any updates please contact us at 866-9MH-TECH or support@mhconsults.com

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