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Cyber Security Basics: Install Operating System and Software Updates

Home > IT Security Awareness > Cyber Security Basics: Install Operating System and Software Updates

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Why should you install operating system (OS) and software updates?

  • Updates are "patches" that fix problems in your operating system (the basic program that runs your computer) or in software and programs that you use.
  • Unpatched computers are especially vulnerable to viruses and hackers.

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UCSC's Minimum Network Connectivity Requirements require devices connected to the campus network to run versions of operating system and application software for which security updates are made available. Updates must also be installed in a timely fashion.

To ensure that your OS and software is updated:

Install all critical and security-related updates when your programs tell you they are available. If you've never been prompted to do this, your computer and applications may not be configured to notify you when updates are available. Submit a ticket to the ITS Support Center for assistance to make sure you are able to receive and install updates as appropriate.

Some general guidelines:

  • Windows users: Set your computer to download operating system updates on a regular basis. Look in your Control Panel and find System or Automatic Updates. You can also find Windows updates in the Tools menu in Internet Explorer, or by visiting Microsoft's Web site at http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com.
  • Mac users: Consult the "software update" pane in the System Preferences utility to manually or automatically schedule updates. Or visit http://www.apple.com/support
  • Everyone: Look in the menu of your applications and web browsers when they are running to see if there is an "update", "auto update" or "check for updates" option, or something similar. If so, select the option and set it to check for updates as frequently as it allows.

GETTING HELP:

Contact the ITS Support Center if you would like your computer configured to meet these requirements. For fastest response, open a request. You can also email help@ucsc.edu or call 459-HELP (4357).

Contact the ITS Support Center or your ITS Divisional Liaison with questions or concerns about any of this information.

(Back to Minimum Requirements Main Page)

Rev. 10/3/08