Install updates
Device and software manufacturers are constantly working to improve the security of their products. Make sure devices and software are up to date and enable automatic updates.
Animation
Watch this short animation made by DTC about installing updates. The video comes with English subtitles. You can download the media files here:
Keep your devices and software up to date
Manufacturers of equipment and software are continuously developing their products. Through updates, the latest functionalities reach the end users. Updates also offer fixes for vulnerabilities or better security. So always install the most recent security updates immediately so that you are and remain well protected.
Why this basic principle?
Updating is important for all devices connected to a network. Not only your computer and/or printer, but also your smartphone, tablet, router, or Network Attached Storage (in Dutch), for example. The software on your device cannot work properly if you do not run updates. Cybercriminals know this too. They look for vulnerabilities in outdated software to get access that way. Keeping your devices and software up to date minimises the risk of viruses and keeps you protected from the most current cyber threats and risks. A virus or cybercriminal uses vulnerabilities in older versions of devices and software.
What should you do?
- Check if devices and software are up to date. If not, install the latest security updates immediately;
- Enable automatic updates so that your devices and software will always run on the latest version;
- Incidentally, producers also issue a so-called 'patch'. These are often minor updates that fix a very specific problem. Do not forget to install it right away.
Read more about updating your devices (in Dutch) in your work environment.
Tips to stay up to date
It is important to do your updates regularly. Here are a few tips to keep track of your updates:
- Do not ignore the automatic update notifications from your devices/software. Make sure to install the update as soon as possible, but at least within 24 hours;
- Subscribe to all notification options from relevant suppliers to receive timely notifications of updates, or set up notifications yourself;
- Choose suppliers who have an adequate and effective update policy and the associated procedures;
- Make clear agreements (in Dutch) with suppliers and make sure you know which patches are relevant to you;
- Record in a log what you do and do not do.
How do I update smart devices?
Search online for the correct software update. The type number can in many cases be found on the box, the bottom of the device, or the battery cover.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions. If possible, enable automatic updates;
- Cannot figure it out? Then contact the manufacturer.
Want to know more about your smart device? Check this overview of smart devices (in Dutch) and how you can update them.
In addition
- Check monthly whether devices and software are up to date;
- Consider device or software replacement if supplier updates are no longer available or supported. Read why 'End-of-Life' (in Dutch) makes you vulnerable and what the options are.
Read more about the 5 basic principles of running a secure digital business.