Software updates are supposed to improve things, but every so often, they do the exact opposite. Let’s talk about why updates sometimes cause problems, how to reduce the risk, and what you can do if it’s already too late.

Why Updates Break Things

New software, old connections
One of the most common causes of an update breaking your workflow is that the new version no longer “talks” properly to the other systems or programs you rely on. Software programs often connect to other apps behind the scenes, whether it’s your accounting software linking to a bank feed, or your POS system syncing with inventory tools.

An update may change how that communication works. If the other apps haven’t been updated to match, things can fall apart. Suddenly, you’re stuck with software that no longer plays well with the rest of your setup.

Hardware drivers get left behind
Hardware drivers are small bits of software that help your computer use physical equipment such as printers, scanners, or even keyboards. When your system updates but the driver hasn’t been updated (or doesn’t exist for the latest version), that hardware might stop working.

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For example, that reliable printer in the corner might suddenly become a paperweight if the driver doesn’t support the latest operating system.

Some updates are just… bad
Sometimes the update itself is flawed. A recent high-profile example was a faulty update from CrowdStrike that caused widespread issues on Windows machines across the globe. No one saw it coming, but it took out PCs and servers in thousands of businesses overnight.

Even the biggest tech companies can release buggy updates that cause damage, and once they’re installed, rolling back can be tricky without technical help.

What to Do Before an Update

Don’t let updates happen blindly
It’s tempting to allow every machine to automatically update itself, but that’s risky. Some updates are safe, others need testing first, especially if you rely on specific apps or equipment to keep your business running.

Working with an IT partner like Hopedale Technologies means updates are reviewed before they go live. We test compatibility with your setup, check vendor release notes for known issues, and time the rollout so there’s a backup plan if something goes wrong.

Keep track of what matters most
We like to sit down with our clients and identify the software and hardware they can’t live without. These are the areas that need special attention during updates. If something breaks, we know what to focus on first and how to get things back up quickly.

What to Do If an Update Breaks Your System
Don’t panic, but don’t push random buttons either
When something stops working after an update, it’s tempting to start clicking around or trying to uninstall things. That often makes the situation worse.

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Call Hopedale Technologies first. We can assess whether the update can be rolled back safely, whether a patch has already been released, or if there’s a workaround to your business moving while we sort it out properly.

We might roll it back or patch it up
Depending on the situation, we might uninstall the update, roll the system back to a restore point, or apply a patch from the vendor. In other cases, we might isolate the issue and reconfigure things to temporarily work around it.

The main goal is to keep your business operational with as little downtime as possible.

How We Can Help

If you’re tired of unexpected tech headaches, we can help you take control of updates. We don’t just apply patches and hope for the best, we review what’s changing, test it against your setup, and have rollback plans in place before anything is touched.

When something breaks, we already know your systems, your software, and your team, which helps us fix things faster and with less disruption.

Final Thought

Updates are important, but they shouldn’t break your business. If you’ve ever been burned by a surprise software change, you’re not alone, but it doesn’t have to be that way.

Few of us are big fans of change. It can be easier to keep going down that same path or use that same computer software; it’s comfortable and familiar. However, as of January 10, 2023, Microsoft has stopped providing support for Windows 8.1, which means you need to change.

It’s time.

If you’re still on Windows 7, you are long overdue. Microsoft stopped providing security updates and technical support for that in January 2020. Microsoft did launch an extended service update (ESU) period for Windows 7, but that’s over, and there’s no ESU program for Windows 8.1.

Microsoft recommends moving to a new device that can run Windows 11. They warn against “performance and reliability issues” with older, unsupported operating systems. Another option? Upgrade your current device and install a newer operating system on it.

READ MORE:Should I Upgrade or Buy a New Computer?

You might be suspicious, thinking, “They just want more of my money,” but the manufacturer has already supported these tools for ten years. Plus, computing is changing enough that they must keep up with new iterations of Windows. Then, they focus on keeping the latest releases updated and secure.

Benefits of Upgrading to Windows 11

Statcounter data in 2023 shows that Windows 11 is only on 15.44 percent of Windows systems. Windows 10 has the majority (over 70 percent), but if you’re one of just under 10 percent of users still on Windows 7, make the change now.

Cybercriminals know that people will wait to make the change, and they find ways to exploit the weaknesses of unsupported software. You are particularly vulnerable when relying on Windows 7 or Windows 8.1.

READ MORE:End of Windows 7:  Protect Yourself From Tech Support Scams

Windows 11 is the latest Microsoft offering. They have worked to reduce risk from the latest cybersecurity threats. With Windows 11, you can better protect your files and cut the risk of today’s viruses and malware.

The new operating system is built to be more efficient. Microsoft has tweaked the Windows layout and navigation to help users find what they need and perform tasks more efficiently.

READ MORE:Cool Windows 11 Features That May Make You Love This OS

Not sure what version of Windows you’re using? In the bottom left of your screen, click the Start Menu and press the Windows button on your keyboard. Then, type “system.” Click either the System or System Information icon. Your Windows version is listed at the top of the open window.

Upgrading to Windows 11 from 7 or 8 isn’t free. Only Windows 10 users can upgrade at no cost. Also, to upgrade to a Windows 11-compatible device, you’ll need to get a security chip called TPM 2.0. You’ll unlikely find that chip on a computer over four years old.

Hopedale Technologies stocks desktops and laptops with the newest chip technology. We also can special order just what you need from our suppliers.

Look at it this way, when software is first delivered, the manufacturer believes it is the best thing it can offer or at least the best software it can provide by the delivery deadline. But, as you know, there are still changes after the software is released. Glitches can be discovered, and security vulnerabilities may be identified. If you’re on Windows 10 right now, you can wait to upgrade to Windows 11. Let some of those bugs get worked out by the early adopters first.One change that isn’t getting glowing reviews? The Windows 11 taskbar. It isn’t as customizable and is permanently centered. This means you can’t make it taller or move it around the screen. So, maybe wait and see if they tweak the taskbar before making the change.

Are you a home gamer? You might think Windows 11 is going to give you more gaming-centric features, but although it’s being touted as “the best Windows for gaming,” Windows 10 has all the same features.

So, what’s the appeal of Windows 11?

Why are people making the move to Windows 11? It offers some appealing features. The new OS aims to simplify the user experience. Microsoft has added snap controls allowing users to resize and reposition desktop windows, content personalization tools, and widgets.

Windows 11 also embraces a Zero Trust framework to combat cybersecurity risk. The new OS validates user identity and the platform you’re using to safeguard access to your computer. Encryption and malware protection are also now the default rather than add-ons.

But those changes need more

The enhancements to Windows 11 demand more advanced hardware than those required for Windows 10. You’ll need:

• a compatible 64-bit processor;
• a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 chip (to help protect encryption keys, user credentials, and data);
• 64 GB or more available storage;
• 4 GB of RAM;
• a high-definition (720p) display

Unlike Windows 11, Windows 10 runs on everything. So, you won’t need to make any changes to meet hardware requirements.

You may also need to change some of your habits with the move to Windows 11. If you’ve been loyal to Internet Explorer, you’ll need to adapt. The new OS moves away from Explorer and its ActiveX-based applications. Also, if you’re a fan of Android apps, you’re going to be annoyed. Windows 11 has limited Android capability right now.

No rush to upgrade

Ultimately, there’s no reason to rush to update your Windows. Microsoft promises to support the Windows 10 OS until October 14, 2025.

Of course, all this is assuming you have already upgraded to Windows 10. If you’re still using Windows 7, you need to update your operating system to Windows 10 NOW. Upgrade to more secure software that continues to benefit from Microsoft support and patching of any vulnerabilities. Wondering why? Read our blog post Windows 7 and Microsoft Office 2010 Support are Ending.

Not sure about the best software solution for your home, or overwhelmed by the idea of upgrading? We are here to help. We can check your device compatibility with Windows 11 and assess your systems and needs. Contact us today at 508-478-6010.