Updating your operating system

Keeping your computer's operating system up-to-date is just as important as maintaining your antivirus protection software. The two precautions work together to ensure that known threats are minimized, and that your system works reliably. Operating system updates are critical for information security, as online criminals are always looking for new points of vulnerability.

Most operating system updates for computers on campus can now be delivered automatically. However, for home computers, servers, or older computers with obsolete operating systems, you may need to manually set up a an update schedule, and periodically check that your system is up-to-date.

NOTE: Updating your operating system does not update the programs you use (Microsoft Office applications, Adobe Photoshop, etc.). Major application suites like Microsoft Office or Adobe Creative Suite offer you the option to check for application updates (see the software's "Help" menu).

Choose your operating system:

• Microsoft Windows
• Apple Macintosh OS X
• Linux systems