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Why bother with software and hardware updates for security?

Remember software and hardware updates are essential to cyber security

When was the last time you thought about software and hardware updates? For many, updating software and hardware is not a priority because “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. At OXEN, we politely disagree with this age old wisdom because it’s abundantly clear that today’s cyber attacks pointedly prey on vulnerabilities present in old software and hardware. (This holds especially true for operating systems such as Microsoft Windows.)

It may not be “broke”, but it’s still old. “Working” does not mean “secure”. Old software and hardware simply do not have the latest defenses like security patches and advances in firmware to keep you safe from new and ever-evolving threats.

Update and upgrade your software

At OXEN Technology, we run into all types of software when troubleshooting for clients. It’s not uncommon for us to see people working on outdated, unpatched Windows operating systems or other software that is sometimes 6 or more years old! You’ve probably heard this before, but it always bears repeating: Keep your software updated and patched regularly and automatically, and upgrade to newer software versions as frequently as you can. This should feel especially critical after seeing how missing OS updates have fueled massive ransomware attacks this year with both WannaCry and Petya.

Upgrade old hardware

We also see this when it comes to hardware like servers and PC’s. And hackers have found security weaknesses in them as well. Another effective way to increase your security is to update any computers in your business or organization that are more than 3 years old. New desktops and laptops will come with the new and better parts, such as better memory, network interface cards, hard disks, and processors such as the latest Intel Core ones. These processors can help your operating system and security software products run more efficiently.

And also keep in mind that often the latest software will not run on outdated hardware. Are your old PCs or servers holding your security up because they won’t run the best protective measures?

So we encourage you to commit to software and hardware updates as a regular task. You really can’t go wrong with it as you’ll be increasing your security as well as your productivity, with the latest tools and fastest speeds.

Find out where you stand with software and hardware updates

Not sure where to begin? We’d like to help you by providing an asset management report of your installed software and hardware. With this report, we can help you to begin updating your software and hardware to strengthen your cyber security defense.

Call us today at 888-296-3619 or email hello@oxen.tech for more information!

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