Safer Internet: Offline: Software Updates

Quotes

Definition. software upgrade:...
A client calls to hotline of internet service provider.
Client: "I have a problem, internet stopped working two days ago, neither I nor my son nor anyone else can access it now."

Hotline: "I see. Do you know what's the operating system on your PC?"
Client: "Of course I do,... it's Facebook"
"Chaos reigns within.
Reflect, repent, and reboot.
Order shall return.

Program aborting:
Close all that you have worked on.
You ask far too much.

Windows NT crashed.
I am the Blue Screen of Death.
No one hears your screams.

Yesterday it worked.
Today it is not working.
Windows is like that.

First snow, then silence.
This thousand-dollar screen dies
So beautifully.

A crash reduces
Your expensive computer
To a simple stone.

Serious error.
All shortcuts have disappeared.
Screen. Mind. Both are blank.

There is a chasm
of carbon and silicon
the software can’t bridge.

To have no errors
Would be life without meaning
No struggle, no joy.

Seeing my great fault
Through darkening blue windows
I begin again.

The code was willing,
It considered your request,
But the chips were weak.

Errors have occurred.
We won’t tell you where or why.
Lazy programmers.There is a chasm
of carbon and silicon
the software can’t bridge.

To have no errors
Would be life without meaning
No struggle, no joy.

Seeing my great fault
Through darkening blue windows
I begin again.

The code was willing,
It considered your request,
But the chips were weak.

Errors have occurred.
We won’t tell you where or why.
Lazy programmers.

I'm sorry, there's -- um --
insufficient -- what's-it-called?
The term eludes me." ~Haiku error messages
Dear Tech Support,
Last year I upgraded from Boyfriend 5.0 to Husband 1.0 and noticed a slowdown in the overall performance, particularly in the flower and jewelry applications that had operated flawlessly under Boyfriend 5.0.

In addition, Husband 1.0 uninstalled many other valuable programs, such as Romance 9.5 and Personal Attention 6.5, but installed undesirable programs such as NFL 5.0 and NBA 3.0. And now...

Summary

"If it ain't broke, don't fix it"?
Even if you don't care about bug fixes or new features, privacy & security updates are very important.
It's a myth (procrastination excuse?) that newer versions are always larger, slower, buggier.
Take note of software upgrade/update notifications, e.g., popups, emails -- -- but don't interact directly with them.
It's better not to click on links/buttons in unexpected notifications, even if they seem from legitimate sources;
browser popups about Flash are a notorious avenue for malware
Instead, check/update officially via app store, vendor, OS/app or settings.
Although most updates are generally reliable, it's a good idea to backup first anyway.
[1] Install Minor/Incremental Updates: System, Apps, Add-ons/Extensions -- within a few days
[2] Install Major Upgrades -- within a few weeks
[2] Consider replacing your device or browser -- if security updates are no longer offered; in the meanwhile, exercise extra caution when online; or run selected apps on a different more secure device.
[2] Don't forget other network(ed) devices, e.g., router, smart TV, IoT
[3] Run software and hardware diagnostics/repair utilities
References

When, What to Update: System, Apps, Add-ons

Backup!
If you minimize number of applications and add-ons, esp. if infrequently or not used (see Erasing section), there will be fewer items to update.
Each user will have different risk vs. benefit tradeoffs for what & when to update
Most tech-savvy user in family might do updates for everyone (whose accounts lack admin privileges)
Update sooner if the system or app security fixes are critical, i.e., browser, email, network, cloud
It's usually ok to wait a few days -- for a few weeks for major versions -- if you're travelling or extra busy, or to research incompatibilities.
Many bugs have already been detected and fixed during wider beta testing by developers (and daring users)
Any problem with a software update itself is usually remedied in a day or two -- plus, upgrade servers will be more responsive
Current/recent OS versions:
Usually, the latest version numbers/dates will be listed below -- and on Course Updates page:
The labels and color-coding suggest status/urgency for upgrading:
green: up to date
lighter green: Recent; incremental; upgrade soon
orange: Old; major; upgrade when convenient
red: Obsolete; upgrade asap, or replace -- if internet is used and security upgrades no longer avail

Operating System

system: e.g., Android, iOS, macOS (formerly "OS X"), Windows
for checking version / installing system update:
iOS: Settings > General > About : Version
iOS: Settings > General > Software Update
macOS: [apple] > About
macOS: System Preferences > Software Update
Win: Settings > System > About
Win: Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
[2] Update software/firmware on other connected devices, e.g., router, smart TV
[3] Test/beta official OS versions -- only if you are a developer, bugged by a bug, can't live without a new shiny feature, or crave living on the 'bleeding edge'.

Apps

Individual apps: check for updates via app store, upon startup (app preference), or manually (via menu)
Ok to ignore updates for apps that you never use, e.g., built-in apps like GarageBand -- but why not remove if unneeded, or offload if easily re-downloaded?
Install system & application updates only from official store, from within apps, or reputable developers
Some apps offer option of automatically downloading and installing updates; it's up to you; I prefer to backup before installing most updates.
[2] Generally, don't download from 3rd party sites, e.g., CNet, Soft32, ZDNET, download.com, etc.
[3] Don't jailbreak your device with an unofficial OS, so that you can install nifty but questionable apps.
iOS: App Store > Updates
iOS: Settings > iTunes & App Store > Automatic Downloads > Music, Apps, Books & Audiobooks, Updates: ?
iOS: Settings > iTunes & App Store > Use Cellular Data: ?
macOS: App Store > Updates: apps installed from store
macOS: Adobe Reader > Help > Check For Updates
macOS: Backblaze > Check For Updates
macOS: Carbon Copy Cloner > Carbon Copy Cloner > Check For Updates
macOS: Firefox > Firefox > About Firefox
macOS: Google Chrome > Chrome > About Google Chrome
macOS: System Preferences > Java > Update
macOS: LibreOffice > Help > Check For Updates
macOS: Microsoft Excel/Word/Powerpoint > Help > Check For Updates
macOS: Skype > Skype > Check For Updates
macOS: Zoom > Check for Updates
Allow easier installation of free apps?
iOS: Settings > (your acct) > iTunes & App Store > Password Settings > Free Downloads > Require Password: off
[2] Save $ by purchasing apps only once for each family device via accounts usually sharing same payment method
iOS: Settings > (your acct) > Family Sharing
macOS: System Preferences > iCloud > Manage Family
[3] macOS: System Preferences > Security & Privacy > 'app was blocked from opening because it is not from an identified developer' > Open Anyway

Add-ons: Plugins, Extensions

add-ons customize/extend an app, esp. a browser
Once installed, most browsers check/update automatically, or via sytstem preference
Do not update browser extensions, e.g., Flash, or apps when prompted via a browser popup -- use app store, or app or extension's own 'Check for Updates' command
Look for install options -- often checked by default -- that might install unwanted extensions or adware, or change settings (home page, search engine); e.g., Oracle's Java installer
plugins: e.g., Adobe Flash; Oracle Java -- or consider uninstalling altogether
extensions: e.g., Adblock Plus, HTTPS Everywhere
macOS: Safari > Preferences > Extensions > Updates : Install Updates Automatically
macOS: System Preferences > Flash Player > Advanced > Updates

[1] Install Minor/Incremental Updates, e.g., #.1

Backup -- both incremental and clone -- before cleanup; again before actual installation;
see When, What to Upgrade; Backup section
If you always keep your device up-to-date, it should be easier to migrate to future system & app releases
You can usually wait a day or two -- or even longer if there are no security fixes for your particular device
Update may contain bug fixes, and minimal new features
Allow enough time for backup, download and install -- probably not before a trip or big presentation; updates usually go smoothly, but allow a little more time in case you need to troubleshoot or restore a previous system version.
General update info in previous sections, specific directions for different OS in subsequent subsections -- and References

Android

[Refs:Android]

iOS

[Refs:iOS]
iOS: Settings > General > Software Update
iOS: App Store > Updates
iOS users may want to use iTunes to update iOS: easy to backup first
for OTA (over the air) updates via WiFi or cellular
< iOS9: update can fail due to low device memory
≥ iOS9: update can be slower; apps are removed/reinstalled if needed to create temporary space

macOS

[Refs:macOS]
Out-of-cycle Security or Supplemental Updates may also be available, with no change to system version #
macOS: [apple] > About > Software Update
macOS: App Store > Updates -- macOS and selected apps
macOS (10.14): System Preferences > Software Update
macOS: System Preferences > App Store: download/install, password

Windows

[Refs:Windows]
Win: Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update

[2] Install Major OS Updates, e.g., #.0

Backup -- both incremental and clone -- before cleanup or running diagnostics;
again before actual installation; see When, What to Upgrade; Backup section
Install incremental or other updates to current OS and apps -- including Safari, iTunes for macOS -- before installing major updates
Allow even more time for backup, download and install -- to anticipate and remedy incompatibilities -- and if things don't go smoothly, for troubleshooting or restoring previous system version
Usually released about once/year: more major fixes, new features and possible incompatibilities
iOS: you should upgrade 'as soon as possible'; usually less complex than desktop upgrades; security fixes sometimes available for previous iOS version
macOS: incremental security fixes are still provided for previous system and browser for 1-2 years, so if there are really major changes, e.g., app incompatibility, user interface makeovers, missing features, performance issues, you could delay your upgrade -- though not indefinitely
Generally, you could wait a week or two for ".1" version to be released to avoid major bugs, especially if there are no critical security fixes and there are significant changes, e.g., file system
If there are multiple devices in a family, upgrade one first to test the process & outcome before upgrading others.
When you are ready to upgrade:
Read articles here about latest version, e.g., Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, or buy Take Control e-books to find out more about what's changed, compatibility/adequacy of your hardware (to run new os) and of apps (with new os), cleanup & backup steps, new features that you might actually like to have (or old features that might be removed that you can’t live without), installation advice
Remove unused applications and browser add-ons -- see Erasing section
Check if new OS version is incompatible with any important applications you have, e.g., upgrade info, release notes, vendor sites
Apple: macOS versions, compatibility; iOS, iPadOS updates
macOS: (apple) > About This Mac > System Report > Software > Applications: 64-bit(Intel) -- some 32-bit apps may still continue to work under High Sierra.
iOS10: Settings > About > Applications: 'these apps may slow down your iPad and will not work with iOS 11 if they are not updated'
For incompatible apps, consider upgrading version or finding a (free) alternative.
For example, instead of Microsoft Office 2011, which may not work with macOS 10.13 (High Sierra): HS 32-bit app incompatibility; plus, Microsoft has stopped providing support and security patches
offline apps: Microsoft Office 2016 -- $$; Steve's spouse upgraded to this
macOS/iOS iWork suite: Pages, Numbers, Keynote -- free; Steve switched to these
Open Office, LibreOffice, NeoOffice -- free
SoftMaker: Free Office (free); Softmaker Office: Std ($20+) / Pro; comparison
cloud-based storage & office suite (via browser): Microsoft: OneDrive: Word, Excel, PowerPoint Online -- free;
Microsoft 365 -- subscription; includes apps (And,iOS,Mac,Win), 1Tb OneDrive cloud storage, 60 Skype minutes/mo.
Google Drive: Docs, Sheets, Slides -- free
Apple's iCloud: iWork (Pages, Numbers, Keynote) -- free
[2] Check disk permissions, repair (less necessary recently)
macOS (< 10.10): Disk Utility > Repair Permissions -- or run Maintenance (or Onyx) utility
[3] Restart from Recovery partition; check main disk; repair (if necessary)
macOS: restart w/ cmd-R > OS X Utilities > Disk Utility > Repair Disk
[3] Check hardware, e.g., memory
macOS: restart w/ D key; diagnostic runs automatically

[2] Replace Device?

Strongly consider replacing your device if security/privacy problems are no longer patched in your OS version -- and you can't upgrade, e.g.,
if your computer OS is more than 1-2 major versions behind -- see macOS, Win
usually if your tablet/phone OS is 1 or more major versions behind -- see Android, iOS
Your device doesn't support a newer OS -- or needs extra memory that you cannot (or do not want to) add
Apps you rely on are no longer provided/supported on your old OS (e.g., 32-bit when 64-bit will be required) -- and no updates are available
In the meanwhile, use an actively maintained browser, e.g., Firefox, Chrome -- rather than built-in browser, i.e., macOS Safari, Windows IE; and consider using the device only for casual (non-encrypted) browsing
Do you need just browsing, email, basic document creation/editing, and simple photo manipulation? If so, you might consider a tablet (iPad) or Chromebook -- less expensive, and much simpler to maintain/update than a full-blown desktop or laptop computer with macOS, Windows or Linux.
When purchasing a new device, especially a subsidized or less expensive one, request that vendor remove pre-installed bloatware, crapware, adware
If you're switching between different OS (versions or vendors), check if migration tools are available for contacts, bookmarks, settings, photos, accounts, etc.
When donating / discarding old device -- see Erasing section

References

sections: Refs: Android; Apps including browsers, but not Microsoft Office; ChromeOS/Book; Drivers, Firmware; iOS; macOS; Windows; Meltdown/Spectre; Microsoft Office (and other apps); Replace / Switch Devices
course section: Connection : Malware
topics: beta testing, bloatware, emulators, lifecycle
Wikipedia: Operating System (OS); firmware
Wikipedia: Mobile OS; App Store; "sandbox"
Wikipedia: plug-in software component that adds a specific feature to an existing software application
Wikipedia: browser extension extends the functionality of a web browser in some way. Depending on the browser and the version, the term may be distinct from similar terms such as plug-in or add-on
HowStuffWorks: How Operating Systems Work
Why You Should Reset Your PC for the New Year LH; 11/30/2023
4 Helpful iPhone and Android Tricks You May Not Know About
Point the Way (map/camera); Scan Stuff;
Name That Tune; Emergency Help; NYT; 8/3/2022
Steps to Simple Online Security: 3: Enable Automatic Updates Everywhere NYT; 4/1/2022
How to Use Your Phone's Privacy-Protection Tools
iOS 15; Android 12; NYT; 12/8/2021
Emergency software patches are on the rise
zero-day flaws have become more common; NBC; 9/14/2021
Definitely not Windows 95: What operating systems keep things running in space? the updates don't come every spring and fall; Real-Time Operating System (RTOS); Ars; 10/2/2020
Boeing 747s Still Use Floppy Disks to Get Critical Software Updates Giz; 8/11/2020
Reset Your Computer Once a Year for a Happier Life restore your Mac, PC, or Chromebook to factory conditions; Wired; 3/8/2020
How Updates in iOS 13 and Android Q Will Change Your Smartphone dark mode; speed; privacy enhancements; NYT; 6/5/2019
Stop Ignoring Those "Update Your Device" Messages even though the Asus malware attack was spread through software updates, the best way to protect yourself online is to keep your software updated; NYT; 3/27/2019
Trick Your Friends Into Installing Smartphone Updates LH; 2/18/2019
[2] GPS devices with a poorly implemented GPS Time-to-UTC conversion algorithm may provide incorrect UTC following a week number rollover newer receivers built after, say, 2010 should be fine, provided they follow the specs and notice the rollover; older devices may fail after April 6 unless they've been suitably updated; Reg; 2/12/2019
How to Submit a Bug Report to Apple, Google, Facebook, Twitter, Microsoft plus Adobe, AMD, Asana, Dropbox, DuckDuckGo, Evernote, Facebook, Instagram, Lyft, Mozilla, Nintendo, Nvidia, Paypal and Venmo, Reddit, Slack, Snapchat, Sony, Trello, Tumblr, Twitch, Twitter, Uber, Valve, Wordpress; LH; 2/5/2019
42 of the Best Troubleshooting Guides from 2018 Mac, iOS; OSXD; 1/5/2019

Android

"Imagine if Windows patches had to...
Wikipedia: Android; Android versions 1.5-8.x: 1.5 Cupcake; 1.6 Donut; 2.0 Eclair; 2.2 Froyo; 2.3 Gingerbread; 3.0 Honeycomb; 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich; 4.1 Jelly Bean; 4.4 KitKat; 5.0 Lollipop; 6.0 Marshmallow; 7.0 Nougat; 8.0 Oreo; 9.0: Pie; 10, 11, 12
Wikipedia: Google Play (app store); Rooting
Google: android.com
HowStuffWorks: How Android Tablets Work; How do I upgrade the version of Android on my tablet?
Android 14 review Ars; 10/29/2023
The Android 13 Privacy Settings You Should Update Now Wired; 8/17/2022
Do This Android App Privacy Audit LH; 7/7/2022
These Android features will help protect your digital privacy TC; 4/30/2022
The Android 12 Privacy Settings You Should Update Now Wired; 11/28/2021
10 Practical Privacy Tips for Your Android Phone NYT; 10/19/2021
How to Speed Up Your Old Android Phone LH; 9/8/2021
Switching from Android to iPhone made easy MW; 3/9/2021
Samsung Promises 'At Least Four Years' of Security Software Updates for Recent Galaxy Devices MR; 2/23/2021
This Android 12 leak looks an awful lot like iOS 14 PC; 2/9/2021
7 Simple Ways to Make Your Android Phone More Secure Wired; 12/1/2020
Play Store identified as main distribution vector for most Android malware ZD; 11/11/2020
On Older Versions of Android, Many Let's Encrypt-Secured Sites May Stop Working in 2021 < 7.1.1; 11/6/2020
The Android 11 Privacy and Security Features You Should Know Wired; 9/27/2020
Android 11: The Ars Technica Review Ars; 9/21/2020
Android 11 is final with day-one updates from Google, betas for other OEMs Ars; 9/8/2020
The 11 Best New Features in Android 11 Wired; 9/8/2020
Android 11 is here, bringing minor changes to Pixel phones (and others soon) PC; 9/8/2020
Samsung's Android update guarantee might actually be better than Google's PC; 8/8/2020
Google says Android 11 Beta 1 is being pushed back to June 3 about a month behind schedule, but the final release is still on track for Q3; 5/6/2020
Install the October 2019 Android Security Update ASAP LH; 10/7/2019
Attackers exploit 0-day vulnerability that gives full control of Android phones Vulnerable phones include 4 Pixel models, devices from Samsung, Motorola, and others; Ars; 10/3/2019
Android 10: The Ars Technica Review Ars; 9/5/2019
Android 10 launches; Pixel phones get update Ars; 9/3/2019
Take These Steps Before Installing Android 10 on Your Phone LH; 9/3/2019
The Android 10 Privacy and Security Upgrades You Should Know About Wired; 8/22/2019
Buying an old Android phone? What you should know about privacy and security if your Android phone is not running the latest software OS, your security and privacy might be in jeopardy; CNet; 5/10/2020
Your old Android phone isn't dead yet: 7 ways to make it run faster and last longer PC; 5/4/2020
How Spies Snuck Malware Into the Google Play Store -- Again and Again malicious Android apps from the so-called PhantomLance campaign targeted hundreds of users, and at least two slipped past Google's defenses; Wired; 4/28/2020
Use Permissions to Keep Scammy Apps Off Your Android LH; 4/23/2020
How to Update Your Super-Old Android So It Doesn't Get Hacked Update your device (as much as you can); Get antivirus protection; Switch to a third-party OS; Or just get a new phone; LH; 3/9/2020
Google slams Samsung for 'unnecessary changes' to the Android kernel decreased security; 2/17/2020
Google & Samsung fix Android spying flaw. Other makers may still be vulnerable Camera and mic could be controlled by any app, no permission required; Ars; 11/19/2019
146 New Vulnerabilities All Come Preinstalled on Android Phones The dozens of flaws across 29 Android smartphone makers show just how insecure the devices can be, even brand-new; Wired; 11/15/2019
The Verge Guide To Android comprehensive resource that will help you learn how to use your Android phone's best features and further educate you about this popular and flexible mobile operating system; Verge; 10/14/2019
Your Samsung Device May Now Be Getting Less Frequent Software Updates LH; 10/8/2019
Inexpensive, unpatched phones put billions of users' privacy at risk users who connect only with cheap Android phones pay with their personal info; Ars; 10/7/2019
The Internet's horrifying new method for installing Google apps on Huawei phones Just make a Chinese website your device's remote administrator. It'll be fine! Ars; 10/2/2019
Goodbye Android Q, hello Android 10 Google's dessert-based code names are over; PC; 8/22/2019
The Open Source Project That Keeps Google's Hands Off Your Android Data MicroG gives users control over what data is used, where, when, and how; MB; 6/7/2019
Google bans 29 apps downloaded 4.3M+ times from the Play Store after researchers discovered they were being used to perform malicious acts like serve scam ads hard for many infected users to uninstall; Ars; 2/1/2019

Apps

see also: Office
How to Spot an App You Shouldn't Trust
check the user reviews -- carefully; check the developer's history;
check how the app is funded; check the permissions the app needs;
check the apps you're already using; Giz; 6/19/2023
Until further notice, think twice before using Google to download software
malvertising; use device's app store; Ars; 2/3/2023
Apps can pose bigger security, privacy threat based on where you download them countries; Ars; 9/27/2022
13 Reasonable Alternatives to Adobe's Expensive Apps LH; 4/19/2021
Unsecured Cloud Configurations Exposing Information in Thousands of Mobile Apps 3/4/2021
Declutter Your Devices to Reduce Security Risks
Summon your willpower and delete those apps you haven't used, but keep telling yourself
you will, because the odds are high that you won't use them; LH; 1/5/2021
More Android 'Fleeceware' to Uninstall From Your Phone an app hides its terms, fees, and/or subscription costs, or otherwise has some clever way to cajole you into signing up for a 'free trial' that actually expires very soon and costs you a lot more than you expected when it's over; LH; 9/4/2020
[2] How to Install Apps From Outside Your Phone's App Store sideloading apps removes the security protections that Google and Apple give you; better to stay within the 'walled gardens' most of the time; Wired; 8/9/2020
The Internet's Most Censored Space app stores; NYT; 6/17/2020
Alternatives for Adobe Acrobat, Photoshop and more PDF editors; PC; 6/15/2020
Fleeceware apps discovered on the iOS App Store Android earlier, now iOS; abuse of free trials and trial cancelation; ZD/ 4/9/2020
How to set up Family Sharing on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac
Purchase Sharing: Media you buy on iTunes, Books, and most App Store purchases (but not in-app purchases!)
iCloud Storage: If you have the 200GB or 2TB storage plan, you can share it with your family.
Location Sharing: Family members share location or the location of their devices. You can always just share location to an individual in the Find My app.
Screen Time: If you have a Child account in your family, you can set screen limits and view reports for it.
Apple Music: You need a family plan on Apple Music to share with your family (it costs $15 per month, rather than $10 for an individual account).
TV Channels: If you subscribe to a premium streaming service through the TV app you can share it with your whole family at no cost. This includes Apple TV+, which is technically a Channel.
Apple Arcade: Apple’s gaming subscription service includes Family Sharing at no cost.
Apple News+: If you have the premium magazine and newspaper subscription in the News app, you can share it with your family at no cost; MW; 1/8/2020
How to Change the Default Apps on All Your Devices Wired; 10/27/2019
More Than Half of PC Applications Installed Worldwide Are Out-of-Date Shockwave, VLC and Skype top the list; 1/22/2019

ChromeOS/Book

The Best Chromebook NYT; 8/2/2023
The best Chromebook to buy CNet; 7/21/2023
The Best Chromebooks To Buy Verge; 6/27/2023
Chromebooks vs. Windows laptops: Which should you buy? PC; 12/4/2022
How to uninstall apps from a Chromebook Verge; 9/9/2022
Why a Chromebook Is Probably All You Need They do almost everything you want, but cost less; CNet; 7/2/2022
Google announces early access to Chrome OS Flex, a version of Chrome OS for businesses and schools that is designed to run on old PCs and Macs
Chrome OS Flex; Verge; 2/15/2022
The world's second-most popular desktop operating system isn't macOS anymore Ars; 2/17/2021
Google updates Chrome OS (88) with security, smart display and personalization features PC; 1/27/2021
How to Run Alternative Browsers on Your Chromebook Linux (Beta): Firefox, Vivaldi; or Android Play Store; Giz; 11/6/2020
Is this Chromebook about to die? Why Google's expiration dates matter don't get stuck with a short-lived lemon; PC; 8/31/2020
How to use a Chromebook: 10 must-know tips, tricks, and tools for beginners PC; 12/4/2019
How to check which version of Chrome OS you're running Verge; 10/16/2019

Drivers, Firmware

How to Check Your USB Devices for Unsafe Firmware LH; 2/19/2020
[2] Getting Drivers for Old Hardware Is Harder Than Ever At least one major provider of hardware-level BIOS drivers is actively deleting old stuff it no longer supports, while old FTP sites where vintage drivers are often found are soon going to be harder to reach; MB; 12/12/2019

Replace, Switch

see also: Backup and Erasing your devices
Apple: Use Quick Start to transfer data from your previous iOS device to your new iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch
How to troubleshoot migrating from an older Mac to a new one MW; 1/5/2024
You can now access Apple's official diagnostics tool online for DIY repairs iOS 17+, macOS 14+; Ars; 12/13/2023
Which Mac laptop is best? MW; 11/17/2023
The Best Tablets NYT; 11/15/2023
The iPad Is the Best Tablet NYT; 11/13/2023
MW; 9/27/2023
iPhone comparison chart: Every iPhone compared MW; 9/15/2023
How to sell or trade in your old iPhone
You can get cash for your iPhone from buyback sites, trade it in to your wireless carrier for a credit on future bills,
or even swap it for a gift card to Target, Best Buy, Amazon, or Walmart.
Get an old iPhone ready for sale: Save your data; Unpair your Apple Watch; Sign out of your Apple account; Reset the phone;
Sell your iPhone online to a buyback site: Gazelle, Swappa, Amazon;
Trade in your iPhone for retail store credit: Apple, Target, Best Buy, Walmart;
How to sell your iPhone back to your carrier: AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Sprint;
Tips for selling your phone; MW; 9/6/2023
Best laptops we recommend CNet; 9/5/2023
The best laptops: Premium laptops, budget laptops, 2-in-1s, and more PC; 8/30/2023
The Best Laptops NYT; 8/22/2023
Best place to buy a refurbished iPad MW; 8/10/2023
The Best Laptops Verge; 8/7/2023
How much can you save at Apple's Refurbished Store? MW; 7/6/2023
Why you should buy a refurbished Mac MW; 7/4/2023
Best MacBooks: Which Model Should You Actually Buy? Wired; 6/20/2023
Every Apple Mac and MacBook compared MW; 6/12/2023
The Best MacBooks NYT; 6/12/2023
Which iPad You Should Actually Buy (and Which to Avoid); Wired; 3/29/2023
Does your laptop feel sluggish? Try these 9 things before you give up PC; 3/9/2023
When Does an Old iPhone/Android Become a Security Risk? LH; 1/25/2023
iPad Buying Guide MW; 1/5/2023
Stop Buying New Apple Devices
buy Certified Refurbished devices instead; LH; 12/8/2022
Thinking about taking your computer to the repair shop? Be very afraid
Not surprisingly, female customers bear the brunt of the privacy violations; Ars; 11/22/2022
Where to buy refurbished products LH; 11/21/2022
How to Revive an Old Computer for Your Kid -- or Decide on a New One NYT; 8/24/2022
11 Ways to Repurpose an Old Phone or Tablet LH; 7/19/2022
How to switch from PC to Mac and migrate your data from Windows to macOS ApIn; 5/30/2022
Yes, You Can Make Your Tech Survive Obsolescence
Keep your browser up to date;
As always, avoid suspicious behavior; Avoid shady apps;
Secure your online accounts;
Install a Different Operating System;
Repurpose Your Old Device; NYT; 3/23/2022
Reset Your Computer Once a Year for a Happier Life
it's easier than ever to restore your Mac, PC, or Chromebook to factory conditions
-- and you'll be surprised at how much zip it'll add; Wired; 1/8/2022
How to sell or trade in your old iPhone MW; 12/27/2021
8 Ways to Make Your Old Laptop Feel New Again LH; 10/27/2021
The True Cost of Upgrading Your Phone
buying a $1,000 phone can be equivalent to giving up $17,000 in retirement savings or 2,500 cups of coffee; NYT; 10/20/2021
The iPhone 13: An upgrader's guide 9/23/2021
Upgrading? Here’s What You Can Do With an Old Mobile Device. NYT; 9/22/2021
Buy or Wait? Here’s a Guide to Phone Upgrades NYT; 8/25/2021
Best laptop 2021: 15 best laptops we recommend in 2021 CNet; 7/7/2021
Consumer Desktop Mac Buying Guide: Which Is Right For You? TB; 6/23/2021
What to do with an old laptop: 10 clever ideas PC; 6/11/2021
How to make an old PC useful for someone else PC; 5/5/2021
How to Know When to Upgrade Your PC Giz; 12/25/2020
The Best Alternatives to Apple's MacBook and Mac Wired; 12/14/2020
How to transfer all your data from an old iPhone to a new iPhone MW; 12/4/2020
How to switch an old Windows laptop to Linux Verge; 11/6/2020
How to Shop for a Used Computer NYT; 10/29/2020
10 cheap or free ways to make your old PC run faster PC; 10/28/2020
When should you replace your PC? | Ask an expert PC; 10/15/2020
When You Shouldn't Repair Your Mac damage superficial? repairs > $1K? LH; 9/15/2020
How to test a used Mac before you buy it iCloud lock, firmware passwords, MDM (Mobile Device Management); diagnostics; battery; display; SSD; ApIn; 9/6/2020
How to Make Your Tech Last Longer NYT; 7/1/2020
What to Do if Your Old Device Can't Run a New Apple Operating System LH; 6/24/2020
iPadOS vs Windows vs Chrome OS: Which is the Best Tablet Experience Right Now? Giz; 5/25/2020
What Happened When I Switched From Macs to Windows Wired; 5/17/2020
Switching from Android to iPhone made easy MW; 5/7/2020
Apple's T2 Security Chip Has Created a Nightmare for MacBook Refurbishers previous owner needs to factory reset their machine before selling it or turning it in; MB; 5/4/2020
How Do I Get My Data Off an Old Computer? LH; 4/10/2020
Switching from Android to iPhone: Here's where Apple's phone wins and fails PC; 3/26/2020
Which MacBook Should You Buy? Wired; 2/21/2020
How to disable accounts on an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch you sold or gave away MW; 11/22/2019
What to do when your old iPhone or iPad doesn't run iOS 13 or iPadOS TR; 10/28/2019
[2] 'Collapse OS' Is an Open Source Operating System for the Post-Apocalypse MB; 10/8/2019
The iPad Can Finally Replace a Laptop for Most People iPadOS; LH; 9/19/2019
The Joys of Being a Late Tech Adopter new doesn’t always necessarily mean better, or better in ways that will matter; NYT; 8/29/2019
The 10 Best Laptops We've Tried favorite Windows Notebooks, MacBooks, and Chromebooks; Wired; 8/15/2019
A School Laptop Under $500 That Isn't Junk NYT; 8/6/2019
How to pick the perfect iPhone for you MW; 6/17/2021
The Best Phone You Can Buy Right Now Verge; 6/16/2021
7 ways to make use of your old iPhone
Make it a dedicated music player
Turn it into a kid's entertainment device
Make it an Apple TV remote
Make it a permanent car, bike, or kitchen fixture
Use it as a baby monitor
Turn it into your bedside buddy; MW; 6/10/2019
5 signs that you need to replace your iPhone
You can't get iOS updates any longer;
Your screen is trashed but isn't worth fixing;
You're embarrassed by your photos;
You can't find accessories for it anymore;
You're always out of storage space; MW; 5/15/2019
How to choose between iPad, iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro 5 models; Verge; 3/30/2019
Why Does My Laptop Take 30 Minutes to Start Up? TaskManager; check for malware; startup/helper apps? LH; 3/1/2019
Guidemaster: The least-awful Android phones over 400 Android devices were released in 2018; Ars; 2/21/2019
How to Save on Your Next Apple Purchase products are more expensive to make; trade in your old device; buy last year's model; wait for sales; buy used or refurbished gadgets; skip the upgrade altogether; NYT; 1/30/2019

Windows

Wikipedia: Windows; versions: 1.0-11.x; Windows Update; App Store
Microsoft: Downloads Center
HowStuffWorks: How Windows 8 Works
There was once a young man who, in his youth, professed his desire to become a great writer. When asked to define "great" he said, "I want to write stuff that the whole world will read, stuff that people will react to on a truly emotional level. Stuff that will make them scream, cry, and howl in pain and anger!"

He now...
"There are no significant bugs in our released software...
Microsoft Lifecycle Policy
Windows-as-a-nuisance: How I clean up a "clean install" of Windows 11 and Edge Ars; 2/23/2024
How to Stop Programs From Loading When Windows Starts Up Apps > Startup; Autoruns; Wired; 4/2/2023
Support for Windows 7 and 8 fully ends in Jan. 2023, including Microsoft Edge Ars; 12/12/2022
Microsoft releases Windows 11 22H2, formally dubbed the "2022 Update" Ars; 9/20?2022
Windows 11 22H2 update will be released on September 20
22H2 includes security upgrades, redesigned Task Manager, and other refinements; Ars; 8/16/2022
How to upgrade to Windows 11 (whether your PC is supported or not) Ars; 8/12/2022
Windows 10 tips and tricks that help you get stuff done faster PC; 5/30/2022
How to get Windows 10 cheap (or even for free) PC; 5/20/2022
How to Use Windows Security to Keep Your PC Protected Wired; 5/1/2022
The Easiest Ways to Install and Update All Your Windows Apps LH; 4/18/2022
How to Run Windows 11 on M1 Mac, for Free OSXD; 4/14/2022
These Windows Apps Are Outdated, Risky, or Scammy LH; 4/4/2022
Google announces early access to Chrome OS Flex, a version of Chrome OS for businesses and schools that is designed to run on old PCs and Macs
Chrome OS Flex; Verge; 2/15/2022
Major Windows 11 update, with taskbar tweaks and Android apps, coming in February Ars; 1/26/2022
Microsoft will now update Windows 10 annually with new features
matches Windows 11 update cadence; Verge; 11/16/2021
Windows 11 superguide: News, tips, reviews and more PC; 11/11/2021
Windows 11 FAQ: Everything you need to know PC; 11/10/2021
It's Windows XP's 20th birthday and way too many still use it BC; 10/25/2021
11 Security Settings You Should Know About in Windows 11 Wired; 10/24/2021
The Windows 11 upgrade checklist PC; 10/6/2021
You shouldn't upgrade to Windows 11 yet PC; 10/5/2021
This is what your PC will need to run Windows 11 PC; 10/5/2021
Windows 11: The Ars Technica review Ars; 10/4/2021
[2] How to update your PC's BIOS
only if needed; PC; 9/24/2021
Want Windows 11? Your PC better have these specs PC; 9/8/2021
Windows 11 arrives on October 5, Android apps will come later
phased rollout will see all compatible PCs updated by ~mid-2022; Ars; 8/31/2021
Why Windows 11 has such strict hardware requirements, according to Microsoft
security and stability are both much better on newer PCs; Ars; 8/27/2021
You'll be able to run Windows 11 on older PCs -- if you install the update manually
you won't see it in Windows Update, but Microsoft won't stop you from running it; Ars; 8/27/2021
When will Windows 11 ship? PC; 6/16/2021
Make way for Windows 11? Windows 10 end-of-life is 10/14/2025 Ars; 6/15/2021
10 truly helpful Windows 10 tools you might not know about PC; 5/24/2021
Windows 10: The best tricks, tips, and tweaks PC; 5/20/2021
Dell is issuing a security patch for hundreds of computer models going back to 2009 Verge; 5/4/2021
How to disable start up programs in Windows 10 to make boot times faster PC; 4/7/2021
Windows 10: Guides, tips, tricks, and everything you need to know about Microsoft's OS PC; 4/5/2021
Windows Turns 35: A Visual History from Windows 1.0 to Windows 10; Verge; 11/20/2020
Reviewed: Windows 10 October 2020 Update inches in the right direction PC; 10/20/2020
Windows 95 turns 25: Relive the glory days with this nostalgic app PC; 8/24/2020
How to manage Windows 10 updates to prevent them from ruining your life PC; 6/30/2020
Homeland Security warns over ‘wormable’ Windows 10 bug TC; 6/8/2020
Microsoft releases the Windows 10 May 2020 Update PC; 5/27/2020
The Best Way to Update Windows 10 and All of Your Apps LH; 5/11/2020
Black wallpaper bug from Windows 7's 'final' update will get fixed PC; 1/27/2020
N.S.A. Takes Step Toward Protecting World's Computers, Not Just Hacking Them Windows vulnerability; NYT; 1/14/2020
The Easiest Way to Switch from Windows 7 to Linux LH; 1/14/2020
Rumors mount that a major bug could be disclosed on the day Microsoft ends support for Windows 7 PC; 1/14/2020
Windows 7 is dead: How to stay as safe as possible after the security updates stop PC; 1/14/2020
How to remove your login password from Windows 10 PC; 12/20/2019
[3] How to Extend Your Windows 7 Security Updates Past January LH; 12/9/2019
[2] How to remove your login password from Windows 10 PC; 11/26/2019
What To Do If Your Antivirus Apps or Wifi Drivers Are Blocking Window 10 Updates update Avast/AVG; update Qualcomm drivers; LH; 11/25/2019
How to See Which Features Microsoft Killed in Every Windows 10 Update LH; 11/14/2019
The Best Features in Windows 10 Version 1909 LH; 11/13/2019
If You're Still Using Windows 7, You Need This Security Update BlueKeep miner; LH; 11/4/2019
Windows 10 November 2019 Update review: Fewer features now, bigger changes later Windows Search-powered File Explorer, some notifications improvements, and easy calendar appointment creation; PC; 10/17/2019
The Best Free MS-DOS Games Now Available From the Internet Archive LH; 10/16/2019
Windows 7 popup warnings to update to Windows 10 will soon reappear PC; 10/15/2019
Microsoft's next Windows 10 feature update gets a name: the Windows 10 November 2019 Update PC; 10/10/2019
The Best Features Coming in Windows 10 Version 1909 LH; 10/7/2019
Windows 10: What to expect in the next two releases 19H2, 20H1; PC; 9/24/2019
The Windows 10 Privacy Settings You Should Check Right Now Wired; 9/7/2019
How to 'Refresh' Your PC When Windows Says There's a Problem LH; 8/22/2019
Four wormable bugs in newer versions of Windows need your attention now Exploits against Windows 7 to 10 could spread from PC to PC--no user interaction needed; Ars; 8/13/2019
The Best Ways to Get Windows 10 for Free install & run w/o activating; upgrade from older version; student/alumni; cheap OEM key; LH; 8/13/2019
How To Undo and Prevent Windows Updates LH; 7/16/2019
Microsoft's 'Stranger Things' Gag Doesn't Make Sense Because No One Used Windows 1.0 cultural nonentity in 1985; MB; 7/8/2019
Microsoft is teasing Windows 1.0 and other 1980s software get MS-DOS Executive, Paint, and Reversi; Ars; 7/2/2019
Microsoft's fall release of Windows 10 will be deliberately anticlimactic PC; 7/1/2019
Microsoft Patches ‘Wormable' Flaw in Windows XP, 7 and Windows 2003 Krebs; 5/14/2019
You Can Run Windows 1.0 Right Now, in a Web Browser OSXD; 4/19/2019
Hackers Hijacked ASUS Software Updates to Install Backdoors on ~500K Windows computyers for at least five months last year, after its live software update tool was compromised; MB; 3/25/2019
Microsoft: Windows 10 can now automatically uninstall buggy updates along with blocks on releasing Windows 10 to certain users, Microsoft will now remove updates that aren't compatible with the installed version of Windows 10; ZD; 3/12/2019
Windows 7 end-of-life nag messages will start showing up next month Microsoft promises you'll be able to turn them off; Ars; 3/12/2019
Windows 10 should never reboot your PC without your express permission, researchers conclude What Microsoft could do better: Educate users, improve Windows Update controls, and commit to rebooting only when the PC is not in active use; PC; 2/26/2019
Mandatory update coming to Windows 7, Server 2008 to kill off weak update hashes phasing out SHA-1; Ars; 2/19/2019
How to Rediscover the Windows Start Menu's Utility Giz; 2/6/2019
How to Install Windows 10 on Mac with Boot Camp OSXD; 2/1/2019
Windows 10's April 2019 Update should be as straightforward as its name PC; 1/25/2019
Microsoft: Switch to iOS or Android because Windows 10 Mobile is ending Ars; 1/18/2019
Latest Windows Service Packs and Updates 1/15/2019
Windows 7 enters its final year of free support Up to three years of paid support will be available after the cut-off: 1/14/2020; Ars; 1/14/2019

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Safer Internet: Offline: Software Updates

Quotes

Summary

When, What to Update: System, Apps, Add-ons

Operating System

Apps

Add-ons: Plugins, Extensions

[1] Install Minor/Incremental Updates, e.g., #.1

Android

iOS

macOS

Windows

[2] Install Major OS Updates, e.g., #.0

[2] Replace Device?

References

Android

Apps

ChromeOS/Book

Drivers, Firmware

iOS / iPadOS

macOS

Meltdown / Spectre / ZombieLoad (hardware CPU flaws)

Office Suites (Microsoft & others)

Replace, Switch

Windows