Automatic updates

Updated: 11/12/2023 by Computer Hope
Fictional Update button on computer keyboard

As problems are found with programs, they get updated by the developer. An auto update or Automatic updates allows users to keep their programs updated without having to check for and install available updates manually. The software automatically checks for available updates, and if found, the updates are downloaded and installed without user intervention.

Note

An automatic update may also be called an auto upgrade or live update.

For example, the Microsoft Windows operating system has automatic updates to help keep Windows updated with the latest bug fixes, feature updates, and other modifications automatically. Automatic updates help keep software better protected from viruses and hacking attempts.

Other programs allow automatic updates to be enabled by users, if not enabled by default upon installation. Internet browsers feature automatic updates, including Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge. Antivirus programs also feature automatic updates, to keep the computer protected.

Some programs allow for the automatic update feature to be disabled, requiring users to manually check for and install available updates. However, turning off automatic updates is not recommended, as it can leave the software and the computer vulnerable to viruses, hacking, and becoming outdated.

Hotfix, Software terms, Update