To keep your PC running smoothly and securely, you need to update its software on a regular basis. By updating your software, you can fix bugs, gain free enhancements, and plug security holes. There are three main kinds of software you need to update:

1. Operating systems
2. Applications
3. Device drivers

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Update your operating system

The most important software updates are the ones that affect your PC or Mac's operating system, such as Windows XP or Mac OS X. These updates provide you with security patches, upgrades in functionality or stability, and they usually help your computer run better overall.

I recommend: For Microsoft Windows operating systems, go to Windows Update and select the appropriate links for you operating system version. For Apple Mac computers, go to the Apple menu and select "software update" to check for updates, to download, and to install.

Update your applications

The applications that you use with your computer can usually be updated via the Web or through a built-in software update service. In addition, some applications let you set an automatic update schedule. Different applications have different update methods, so you'll have to look for the update command by clicking through the application menus or by going to the software provider's Web site.

I recommend: You can do it yourself with a monthly schedule or you can use a program that can automatically check for updates for you, like VersionTracker Pro for Windows or VersionTracker Pro for Mac OSX.

Update your device drivers

Drivers are mini software applications that let your PC communicate with your hardware peripherals, like printers, video adapters, network cards, sound cards, mice, CD and DVD drives, keyboards, and hard drives. You usually only need to check for driver updates every few months unless you're experiencing a problem or bug with your peripheral.

I recommend: Check for driver updates via the manufacturer's Web site or use Drivers Headquarters' Driver Detective application, which scans your PC system and keeps track of available drivers. VersionTracker Pro for Windows or VersionTracker Pro for Mac OSX can also track drivers for you.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Before you update your operating system and business-critical applications, make sure you have backed up your important files on the rare chance that something goes wrong during your update.
• •  If you have several or many computers to update, consider hiring an IT consultant or training an employee to be responsible for your update schedule.
• •  If your applications run on a server, you pretty much need an savvy IT employee or consultant to get the job done efficiently and safely.