As a business owner in North Dakota, Minnesota, or South Dakota, you know how critical it is to keep your systems running smoothly and securely. However, neglecting software updates can leave your business exposed to costly cyber-attacks. With hackers constantly evolving their tactics, using outdated software creates vulnerabilities in your network that are hard to ignore.

But how do you know when it’s time to update, and should you always rely on your computer to remind you? Here are five clear signs it’s time for a software update, along with some tips on how to handle it safely.

1. Your Software Is No Longer Supported

If your software provider has stopped releasing updates, your software is officially out-of-date and vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Unsupported software often has well-known vulnerabilities that hackers exploit. Watch out for announcements from your software providers regarding end-of-life support, and make a plan to upgrade to the latest version.

Tip: In our region, planning ahead is crucial. Weather disruptions or other local factors can delay transitions, so migrate to newer versions while you still have full support and time on your side.

2. Slower Software Performance

If your software is suddenly slowing down or becoming less responsive, this is a strong indicator that it’s outdated. Newer software versions are optimized to perform better and more efficiently. Skipping updates often leads to sluggish or buggy software that slows down your team’s productivity.

Tip: Check for pending updates in your system settings or visit the provider’s official website to manually download the latest versions. This simple step could save you countless hours in lost productivity.

3. Frequent Security Alerts

Receiving warnings from your antivirus or cybersecurity software that flag your software’s vulnerabilities? This is your wake-up call! Cybercriminals target outdated software to exploit its security gaps, leading to potential breaches and data loss.

Tip: Use a reputable antivirus tool that integrates with your software and flags outdated programs. It’s important to double-check the authenticity of update alerts to avoid phishing scams, which are increasingly common in North Dakota and the surrounding region.

4. You Haven’t Updated in Over Six Months

If your software hasn’t been updated in more than six months, chances are it’s overdue for one. Most major software providers release updates regularly to fix vulnerabilities and add enhancements. Keeping your systems current means you’re better protected against cyber threats.

Tip: Set a recurring reminder to check for software updates every quarter or six months, especially for critical applications like operating systems or security software. This small effort can make a significant difference in your cybersecurity posture.

5. New Features Have Been Announced

If you’ve heard about exciting new features being added to the software you use, it’s a clear sign you need to update. New features not only improve functionality but often come bundled with important security patches.

Tip: Follow the blogs and announcements from your software vendors to stay in the loop. Sign up for newsletters or update alerts so you can take advantage of the latest improvements as soon as they become available.

How To Update Safely

Updating your software is critical, but you must do it with caution to avoid mishaps. Here are some guidelines to ensure your updates are safe and successful:

  • Verify The Source: Always download updates from your software provider’s official website or a trusted app store. Avoid suspicious links or third-party sites, which can be riddled with malware.
  • Back Up Your Data: Before any significant updates, make sure to back up your data to an external location, whether that’s the cloud or a secure external drive. This step ensures nothing gets lost during the update process.
  • Restart Your Device: After completing an update, reboot your system to ensure that all new features and patches are fully installed.

By staying on top of your software updates, you’re safeguarding your business from unnecessary risk. For organizations in North Dakota, Minnesota, and South Dakota, ensuring that your technology stays current is more than just smart—it’s essential for maintaining secure and efficient operations.

Need help managing your software updates? Call us at 701-364-2718 or click here to schedule a consultation.