Security

Why updates matter

In a nutshell

Updates fix security holes that criminals can use.
Install them, and turn on automatic updates.
Restart when asked so the update finishes.

Show me how

Takes about a minute. Updates can be large, so check you are on Wi-Fi first, or they could use up your mobile data.

iPhone

Open Settings, then tap General, then Software Update.
Tap Automatic Updates.
Turn on Automatically Install. Your iPhone installs updates overnight while charging on Wi-Fi.

Android

Open Settings, then tap System, then Software updates.
Check for an update and follow the on-screen steps.
Most updates install on their own. Pixel phones install them in the background and finish on your next restart.

What to expect: your phone may restart once, or a few times, while the update installs. That is normal, so let it finish and do not switch it off.

Other phones are available. Samsung, Xiaomi, Motorola and others use slightly different menu names, so if you cannot find these, search your phone's Settings for "software update" or ask the maker's support site.

Read the longer version in plain English

It's like a recall notice for a car: the fix matters most once the problem is known.

What is it?

Updates change the software on your phone, computer or router. Many of them fix security holes that criminals could use, and others fix bugs or add features.

Why does it matter?

Once a security hole is public, attackers know about it too. Installing the update closes it.

What does it mean for you?

Turn on automatic updates where you can. Restart when asked, because many updates only finish after a restart.