Keeping your devices updated: a simple routine

Why updates are a big deal

Every piece of software has mistakes in it. Some of those mistakes are security flaws that let criminals break in. When a maker finds a flaw, it releases a fix in an update, sometimes called a patch. As soon as a fix is published, criminals study it to learn what was wrong, then go after devices that have not installed it yet.

Our news round-ups regularly report flaws that were being used in real attacks before or soon after the fix came out. Updating promptly closes the door before anyone tries the handle.

Turn on automatic updates

• Phone: in Settings, find Software update or System update and switch on automatic updates. Do the same for apps in the app store settings.
• Windows: Settings, then Windows Update. Updates install automatically; restart when asked.
• Mac: System Settings, then General, then Software Update, and turn on automatic updates.
• Browser: Chrome, Edge, Firefox and Safari update themselves, but some fixes only apply when you close and reopen the browser.

A five-minute monthly routine

1. Restart your phone and computer. Pending updates often finish installing during a restart.
2. Open the update page on each and install anything waiting.
3. Open your router's app or settings page and check for a firmware update. See Your home network explained.
4. Check the apps for your smart TV, cameras, doorbell and other gadgets for updates.
5. Delete apps you no longer use. Fewer apps means fewer things to keep updated.

Tip: Pick a memorable day, such as the first Sunday of each month, and set a repeating reminder on your phone.

Is this update real?

Criminals sometimes show fake "update now" messages on websites or in emails to trick people into installing harmful software. Real updates come from your device's own settings or the official app store, not from a pop-up on a website. If a web page says your browser or phone needs an urgent update, close the page and check through the settings instead.

When updates stop

Makers only support each device and software version for a limited time. After that, no more security fixes arrive. Windows 10, for example, reached the end of normal support in October 2025. A device without updates may keep working, but every new flaw found in it stays open.

• Check the maker's website for how long your phone or laptop will be supported.
• Move banking, email and shopping to a supported device.
• Keep an unsupported device off the internet or use it only for simple tasks, such as playing downloaded music.
• When buying, compare how many years of updates each model promises. EU rules now require at least five years of operating system updates for new phones and tablets sold there.

Our explainer Windows 10 end of support explained covers the options for older PCs.