3 Critical Reasons All Businesses Should Prioritise System Updates for Security & Performance

Businesses today rely on a variety of different software, systems, and tools to assist with management, compliance, data protection, and overall operations. Keeping these systems maintained and secure is vital to protecting business assets.

Software updates act as reinforcements, ensuring vulnerabilities are patched before they can be exploited. A 2023 Ponemon Institute report found that unpatched vulnerabilities were responsible for over 80% of successful breaches.

This highlights how critical timely updates are in safeguarding business systems from cyber threats.

Beyond security, updates improve system performance, introduce new features, and ensure compatibility with evolving technology.

Let’s explore why regular software updates are essential for businesses.

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What Are Software Updates?

Software updates are modifications to existing software that improve security, performance, and functionality. These updates come in different forms, each serving a distinct purpose.

Regular updates ensure that software remains reliable and secure while keeping pace with technological advancements.

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Why Software Updates Are Essential For Australian Businesses

When businesses neglect updates, they expose themselves to potential security threats, system inefficiencies, and compatibility issues. Below are three key reasons why keeping software up to date is critical.

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1. Security Enhancements

One of the primary reasons for updating software is to fix security vulnerabilities. An update that fixes specific vulnerabilities is called a security patch, which you can read more about in this guide on What is Patch Management?. Cybercriminals actively search for weaknesses in outdated software, and once a vulnerability is publicly known, systems that haven't been updated become easy targets.

Regular updates help:

• Protect sensitive business data by closing security gaps before they can be exploited.
• Prevent malware and ransomware attacks that target outdated software.
• Strengthen compliance with industry regulations that require businesses to maintain up-to-date security measures.

An example of a major security enhancement via an update is Microsoft's October 2024 release, which addressed 118 vulnerabilities, including two actively exploited flaws.This update strengthened system security, reducing risks of data breaches and system compromise.

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2. Performance Improvements

Software updates often include optimisations that enhance system stability, speed, and efficiency. Over time, bugs and inefficiencies can slow down software performance, causing frustration for employees and reducing productivity.

Updating software helps:

• Resolve known issues that cause crashes, freezes, or slowdowns.
• Optimise performance by improving resource management and system responsiveness.
• Enhance user experience with smoother functionality and better usability.

For example, in early 2023, Microsoft released updates for Windows 11 that significantly improved battery life and system responsiveness, addressing user complaints about sluggish performance.

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3. Compatibility & New Features

Technology evolves rapidly, and outdated software may struggle to work with the latest hardware or applications. Compatibility issues can lead to inefficiencies and disruptions in business operations.

Updating software ensures:

• Seamless integration with new hardware and other business applications.
• Access to the latest features, improving workflow and productivity.
• Support for industry advancements, keeping businesses competitive.

In iOS 18, Apple introduced several security enhancements that required developers to update their applications to maintain compatibility and ensure optimal functionality. Notable changes include the introduction of Apple Intelligence and Bluetooth Privacy Enhancements.

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Best Practices for Managing Software Updates

To ensure smooth operations and security, businesses should implement structured update management strategies. Here are some best practices:

1. Enable Automatic Updates

Whenever possible, configure software to update automatically. This reduces the risk of missing critical security patches and ensures systems remain protected without manual intervention.

2. Schedule Regular Maintenance

Some updates require downtime or system reboots. Scheduling maintenance windows helps minimise disruption by allowing IT teams to apply updates at the least disruptive times.

3. Use Patch Management Solutions

For businesses managing multiple systems, patch management solutions help automate and streamline update processes. These tools provide visibility into update status, ensuring that all devices receive necessary patches in a timely manner. To better understand patch management, explore our guide with expert insights into patch management for your business.

4. Test Critical Updates Before Deployment

Some updates may introduce compatibility issues or unintended side effects. Before rolling out updates across an organisation, testing them in a controlled environment helps identify potential conflicts.

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Staying Updated with DefenderSuite

At Superior IT, we understand the importance of keeping systems updated as part of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. Our DefenderSuite solutions include proactive update management to ensure IT infrastructure remains secure and compliant.

With DefenderSuite, businesses benefit from:

• Automated updates that reduce manual workload and minimise human error.
• Regular monitoring and reporting to ensure updates are consistently applied.
• Expert support to address compatibility challenges and deployment issues.

Don’t leave your business exposed to cyber threats due to outdated software. Explore DefenderSuite to secure your IT infrastructure.

For more information, contact us at 1300 93 77 49 or info@superiorit.com.au today.