Sub Total
Excluding delivery and voucher code discounts.
Go to basket

Free Delivery on all orders to UK mainland within 3 working days.

HP TECH TAKES /...

Exploring today's technology for tomorrow's possibilities
The_Importance_of_Updating_your_Software_and_Hardware_Regularly

Why Regular Software and Hardware Updates Are Essential for Your PC

Dwight Pavlovic
|
In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, many UK PC users find themselves putting off software and hardware updates, viewing them as an unwanted interruption to their daily workflow. Whether you’re working from home in Manchester or running a small business in London, it’s tempting to click “remind me later” when those update notifications appear.
However, there are compelling reasons to embrace these updates sooner rather than later:
  1. Enhanced PC performance
  2. Strengthened security measures
  3. Optimised workflow efficiency
  4. Improved device compatibility
  5. Access to latest features
  6. Greater reliability for business operations
  7. Extended hardware lifespan
  8. Reduced energy consumption
  9. Quick resolution of minor issues
  10. Time and cost savings
Let’s explore why these updates are crucial for various users across the UK, from home office workers to business professionals.

Why Update Software and Hardware?

Updates often prompt questions, particularly when you’re dealing with an unexpected issue or trying to schedule around system maintenance. But what’s the real purpose behind these frequent update requests?
Software updates provide new functionality while addressing existing issues such as bugs and system crashes. Hardware updates, whether through firmware or physical upgrades, help improve your overall computing experience and keep pace with modern demands.

1. Enhanced PC Performance

Regular updates are vital for maintaining optimal performance. Outdated software and hardware may struggle with newer tasks, particularly those introduced after their initial release.
For instance, the HP Pavilion Plus 14-eh1001na Laptop comes with the latest Intel® Core™ Processor, but keeping its drivers and software updated ensures it continues to deliver peak performance long after purchase.

2. Strengthened Security Measures

While antivirus and spyware protection are crucial, security updates for all software and hardware components help maintain comprehensive protection throughout your device’s lifespan. Updated systems are significantly less vulnerable to security breaches and cyber attacks.

3. Optimised Workflow for Staff

For business users, incorporating regular updates into your fleet management routine can significantly boost efficiency. The HP ProBook 460 G11 business laptop, for example, includes multi-layered endpoint security that requires regular updates to maintain optimal protection and performance.

4. Best Way to Guarantee Compatibility

Updates ensure compatibility with newer devices and software. This is particularly important if you use your PC with various peripherals or specialised input devices. HP’s range of business monitors and accessories, for instance, often receive firmware updates to maintain compatibility with the latest operating systems and hardware.

5. Access to the Most Up-to-date Features

Software developers and manufacturers continue to support their products long after release. While many updates address technical issues and stability, others deliver new features and functionality to improve the user experience.

6. Improved Confidence for Customers and Clients

For customer-facing businesses, updated systems provide an extra layer of reliability and professionalism. Consider the HP ZBook Fury G11, which offers desktop-class performance for demanding workflows – keeping it updated ensures consistent performance for client projects.

7. Maximises the Lifespan of Your Hardware

Regular updates help extend device longevity by minimising exposure to bugs, viruses, and defects that can strain your hardware. This is particularly important for high-performance systems like the OMEN by HP 45L Gaming Desktop, where optimal performance is crucial.

8. Reduce Energy and Maintenance Costs

Updated systems typically run more efficiently, which can lead to reduced energy consumption – an important consideration given the UK’s energy costs. They also tend to require less maintenance, saving both time and money in the long run.

9. Updates Can Provide Quick Fixes

Avoiding updates increases the likelihood of encountering performance, compatibility, and security issues. While significant problems may require professional attention, many minor issues can be resolved through routine updates.

10. Saves Time and Trouble Later

Most update benefits ultimately translate to saving time and effort in the future. Updates are typically free and easy to install, and most can be configured to install automatically during off-peak hours.

Manage Your Auto-update Settings

Setting up automatic updates is a practical way to maintain your system without interrupting your workflow. Most programs allow you to manage update settings through their individual preferences or your system’s control panel.
Windows 11 Update Management
To manage Windows 11 updates:
  1. Click the Start button
  2. Select Settings (gear icon)
  3. Choose “Windows Update”
  4. Configure your update preferences and schedule

Firmware Updates

Firmware – the software that controls hardware components – requires regular updates to maintain optimal performance. For HP devices like the HP Pavilion 32-b1001na 4K All-in-One, you can find the latest firmware updates through HP Support.

BIOS/UEFI Updates

The BIOS or UEFI firmware that boots your device requires occasional updates for troubleshooting and maintenance. This is particularly important for business devices and workstations that require optimal performance and security.

Summary: The Value of Regular Updates

While setting up update routines may require some initial time investment, the benefits far outweigh any temporary inconvenience. Regular updates provide essential protection against potential issues while ensuring your system performs at its best. Whether you’re using a powerful HP Desktop Computer or a portable laptop, staying current with updates is crucial for optimal performance and security.
Remember, these updates are designed to protect and improve your computing experience – so next time you see an update notification, consider it an investment in your device’s future rather than an interruption to your day.

About the Author

Dwight Pavlovic is a contributing writer for HP Tech Takes. Dwight is a music and technology writer based out of West Virginia.

Disclosure: Our site may get a share of revenue from the sale of the products featured on this page.

Disclaimer

Prices, specifications, availability and terms of offers may change without notice. Price protection, price matching or price guarantees do not apply to Intra-day, Daily Deals or limited-time promotions. Quantity limits may apply to orders, including orders for discounted and promotional items. Despite our best efforts, a small number of items may contain pricing, typography, or photography errors. Correct prices and promotions are validated at the time your order is placed. These terms apply only to products sold by HP.com; reseller offers may vary. Items sold by HP.com are not for immediate resale. Orders that do not comply with HP.com terms, conditions, and limitations may be cancelled. Contract and volume customers not eligible.

HP’s MSRP is subject to discount. HP’s MSRP price is shown as either a stand-alone price or as a strike-through price with a discounted or promotional price also listed. Discounted or promotional pricing is indicated by the presence of an additional higher MSRP strike-through price

The following applies to HP systems with Intel 6th Gen and other future-generation processors on systems shipping with Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1 or Windows 10 Pro systems downgraded to Windows 7 Professional, Windows 8 Pro, or Windows 8.1: This version of Windows running with the processor or chipsets used in this system has limited support from Microsoft. For more information about Microsoft’s support, please see Microsoft’s Support Lifecycle FAQ at https://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle

Ultrabook, Celeron, Celeron Inside, Core Inside, Intel, Intel Logo, Intel Atom, Intel Atom Inside, Intel Core, Intel Inside, Intel Inside Logo, Intel vPro, Itanium, Itanium Inside, Pentium, Pentium Inside, vPro Inside, Xeon, Xeon Phi, Xeon Inside, and Intel Optane are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries in the U.S. and/or other countries.

In-home warranty is available only on select customizable HP desktop PCs. Need for in-home service is determined by HP support representative. Customer may be required to run system self-test programs or correct reported faults by following advice given over phone. On-site services provided only if issue can't be corrected remotely. Service not available holidays and weekends.

HP will transfer your name and address information, IP address, products ordered and associated costs and other personal information related to processing your application to Bill Me Later®. Bill Me Later will use that data under its privacy policy.

Microsoft Windows 10: Not all features are available in all editions or versions of Windows 10. Systems may require upgraded and/or separately purchased hardware, drivers, software or BIOS update to take full advantage of Windows 10 functionality. Windows 10 is automatically updated, which is always enabled. ISP fees may apply and additional requirements may apply over time for updates. See http://www.microsoft.com.

“Best All In One Printer” and “the easiest printer you’ve ever had to set up” from Wirecutter. ©2020 The Wirecutter, Inc.. All rights reserved. Used under license. https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-all-in-one-printer/

Get Marvel’s Avengers when you purchase HP gaming PCs with qualifying 9th gen or 10th gen Intel® Core™ i5, i7 and i9 processors. Redemption code will be sent out by email within 60 days of purchase. Limited quantities and while supply lasts. Offer valid thru 12/31/2020 only while supplies last. We reserve the right to replace titles in the offer for ones of equal or greater value. Certain titles may not be available to all consumers because of age restrictions. The Offer may be changed, cancelled, or suspended at any time, for any reason, without notice, at Intel’s reasonable discretion if its fairness or integrity affected whether due to human or technical error. The Offer sponsor is Intel Corporation, 2200 Mission College Blvd., Santa Clara, CA 95054, USA. To participate you must create an Intel Digital Hub Account, purchase a qualifying product during the redemption period, enter a valid Master Key, and respond to a brief survey. Information you submit is collected, stored, processed, and used on servers in the USA. For more information on offer details, eligibility, restrictions, and our privacy policy, visit https://softwareoffer.intel.com/offer/20Q3-19/terms.

© 2020 MARVEL. © Intel Corporation. Intel, the Intel logo, and other Intel marks are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries in the U.S. and/or other countries. Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others.

The personal information you provide will be used according to the HP Privacy Statement (https://www8.hp.com/us/en/privacy/ww-privacy.html)