Software Updates (Edexcel IGCSE Ict)

Spec point — 1.3.7

Software updates

Why is software updated?

• Software is updated to:

  • Fix bugs or software vulnerabilities
  • Increase compatibility with newer operating systems
  • Improve performance
  • Introduce new features
  • Improve usability

• Updates are typically downloaded from the internet by a user or automatically from within the software itself

• Operating system can schedule updates to suit user needs and minimise disruption

What are the risks of updating software?

• Software updates typically require the removal of components to be replaced with new ones

• This process can cause

  • Incompatibility - may not work with older hardware or software
  • Workflow disruption - new features/interface tweaks may need time to adjust to, slowing down productivity
  • Update issues - in rare cases the installation process can go wrong, leading to data loss

What are the risks of NOT updating software?

• Software is often released in a less than perfect state and flaws/vulnerabilities may exist which can provide an opportunity for hackers

• Unpatched/outdated software can lead to:

  • Data breaches
  • Installation of malware

Worked Example Fyn want to play a game he installed a year ago

A. Describe how Fyn can update the game software

[2]

B. Give 2 reasons why Fyn should update the game software

[2]

Answers

A.

• Download (the update file) [1]
• Install (the file)[1]

B.

• Any two from:

  • To get new features (perfective)
  • Improve compatibility e.g. with operating system/hardware changes (adaptive)
  • To fix/patch bugs (corrective)
  • To protect against new security vulnerabilities (preventative)