Many operating systems offer a unique service to their users, which allow them to easily download new software updates and to install them automatically. This functionality is meant to address security issues that can pop up at any time. By creating an automated system, the operating system developers hoped to give their users a more seamless experience. Unfortunately, like many new technological advances, this concept is at least somewhat flawed. There are a growing number of users who believe that automatic updates are simply a bad idea and can actually cause more harm than good. The debate, to update or not to update, continues to rage.
First, let’s take a look at why automatic updates are good. The truth is the Internet and computer technology are faced with a constant stream of threats in the form of viruses. Automated updates can be utilized to addressed security holes and loopholes within a system. By creating a system under which updates occur automatically users are less likely to miss important security updates. This is an obvious benefit in a world where threats are frequent.
Now, let’s talk about the downfalls. Many automated updates require a certain set of parameters in order to be successful. For example, a given update might require that the previous update be successfully installed on a computer. In instances where this prerequisite is not met, an automated updates can actually cause problems. This was recently in issue with a Microsoft update in which some users experience system failure due to one of the operating systems automated updates. Some users believe that no automated updates are 100% safe.
Some believe that this debate is pretty much a glass is half empty or half-full question. The truth is there are obvious benefits to automated updates, except in rare situations. Perhaps the ideal answer means human users take the time to understand what updates are being applied to their system. Maybe what we need is melding of the two worlds.