Keeping your device’s operating system (OS) up to date is essential for security, performance, and access to the latest features. Whether you're using a smartphone, tablet, or computer, the process varies depending on the device and OS. Here's a breakdown of how to check for and update the most common types of devices.
Checking the Operating System
On Windows laptop or desktop
On Windows laptop or desktop
Click Start ⊞, then go to Settings > Windows Update.
Click Check for updates.
On Mac
On Mac
On the main screen, click the Apple icon.
Select System Preferences.
On the next page, check Version Name and Version Number.
On Android phone or tablet
On Android phone or tablet
Go to the Settings app on your mobile device.
Tap About Phone or About Device.
Check Android Version.
Note: Settings may vary based on the device brand and model.
On iPhone or iPad
On iPhone or iPad
Open the Settings app.
Go to General > About.
Check the iOS Version.
Updating the Operating System
Windows PC
Windows PC
Steps:
Click the Start menu and open Settings.
Go to Update & Security.
Click Windows Update.
Select Check for updates.
If updates are available, click Download and install.
💡 Tip: Restart your PC after updates to ensure they’re fully applied. For more information, please visit the Microsoft website.
Android Devices
Android Devices
Steps (may vary slightly by manufacturer):
Open the Settings app.
Scroll to System or About phone.
Tap Software update or System update.
Follow the prompts to check for and install updates.
📱 Samsung, Google Pixel, and other brands may have slightly different menus. For more information, please visit the Google Android help center.
macOS (Apple Computers)
macOS (Apple Computers)
Steps:
Click the Apple menu and choose System Settings (or System Preferences on older versions).
Select General > Software Update.
If an update is available, click Update Now or Upgrade Now.
🔒 macOS updates often include important security patches—don’t skip them! For more information, please visit the Apple Support website.
iPhone and iPad (iOS/iPadOS)
iPhone and iPad (iOS/iPadOS)
Steps:
Open the Settings app.
Tap General > Software Update.
If an update is available, tap Download and Install.
⚠️ Make sure your device is connected to Wi-Fi and has at least 50% battery or is plugged in. For more information, please visit the Apple Support website.
Chromebooks (Chrome OS)
Chromebooks (Chrome OS)
Steps:
Click the time in the bottom-right corner.
Select the Settings gear icon.
Go to About ChromeOS.
Click Check for updates.
Restart to apply the update.
💻For more information, please visit the Google Chromebook help center.
❓Why Updates Matter❓
Security: Patches fix vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit.
Performance: Updates often improve speed and efficiency.
Features: New tools and interface improvements are regularly added.