Home NCSC Guides Updating your devices and software

Updating your devices and software

Published:

Aug 15, 2025

Updated:

AUG 22, 2025

Who can use this content?

Individuals

Updating your devices and software isn’t just about getting new features; it’s critical for security.
Updates often fix vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit to steal data, install malware, or take control of your device.

 

"

How to keep devices updated

Enable automatic updates

Turn on automatic updates for your operating systems, applications, and security software to ensure you get the patches as soon as they are released.

Windows

Settings → Windows Update → Turn on Automatic Updates

macOS

System Preferences → Software Update → Check “Automatically keep my Mac up to date”

Android/iOS

Settings → System/General → Software Update → Enable automatic

"

Manually check for updates

If automatic updates are not possible, for instance, on critical servers or specialized software, check regularly and update them.

"

Update security software first

Keep antivirus and firewall tools updated daily for real-time protection.