Whether you have a Mac or Windows Operating System (OS), applying system updates in a timely manner will mitigate known vulnerabilities, fix bugs, reduce system downtime, and in many cases, add new features to the device.
Update Your Device
- Check your computer for regular updates and enable automatic updates whenever possible.
- Best practice for remote devices is to connect to UMN VPN once a month for a full day to maintain the health of the device and access to University resources.
- Restart your computer after updates are made.
- Some updates are time sensitive and your system may be unavailable during this time.
- Setting aside time to make these valuable updates will prevent your device from becoming unavailable when you need it the most.
Systems and applications that are not updated can become a major security risk. New vulnerabilities are emerging everyday, and the best defense against attackers is making sure the devices you use are up-to-date.
In some cases, vendors will discontinue support for an operating system, software or program, known as End of Life (EOL). Use of EOL technology poses additional risk to our organization as attackers know how to exploit security vulnerabilities in these EOL systems to gain access to university data and personal information found on your device.
Best Defense Is You
Keep your software and applications up to date. Technology allows you to do wonderful things and is often directly connected to social media, online banking, and work activities. Next time those notifications pop up asking you to update your system, don't hit "decline" but take the necessary steps and time to update your device and protect yourself and the environment.