A software update is a change to installed software that fixes problems or improves performance and security. It is an important component of a well-developed software lifecycle.
In addition to bug-fixing, software updates are sometimes used to add new functionality, often for free, such as features and game-play tweaks in multiplayer online games like MMORPGs. They are also common for first-person shooter games and some other types of video games that allow players to interact with each other.
Many software vendors publish updated versions of their products, including patches and upgrades, on their websites for download. It is usually a good idea to install these as soon as they become available, to avoid attacks by hackers and other malicious users who take advantage of unpatched software vulnerabilities.
If the installation of a software update fails, it will usually display an error message to alert the user. The most common errors include insufficient storage space for the downloaded file, a problem connecting to the Internet, or not having a compatible device for the update (e.g., a Windows phone that does not support the latest version of Windows).
To ensure that an organization can apply software updates quickly and effectively, it is recommended that a centralized software patch management system be in place. This solution typically consists of a server component for downloading updates from Microsoft or other sources, and a client program that offers a unified way to manage updates for all machines in the network. Thorough testing and incident response plans are also essential for managing the effects of a software update failure.