Ubuntu like any other operating system needs to be kept up to date. These updates are not as critical as Windows updates for security reasons, but it is still a good idea to get into the habit of updating the system to get the latest security updates and features to your applications.
Generally speaking the Update Manager will open up automatically when the system boots up and there are updates available. If this does not happen click on System > Administration > Update Manager to get this application open.
For most updates, simply click on Install Updates to download and install whatever is there. Be sure to have your Synaptic Package Manager closed else these two will conflict.
Do you have to download all these updates when the manager tells you to?
At times there are some security updates to the system which are needed. Many times these updates will fix bugs and issues that are on the system. If you are not having problems with your current applications, you can get away without doing updates all the time.
What about upgrading to the new distribution when it is released every six months?
Whenever there is a new distribution which will happen every six months, there will be a note at the top of the Update Manager that will show up with an Upgrade button. This can be clicked on in order to get the newest version of Ubuntu. It is a good idea to completely back up your home folder before doing this.
One thing to also consider is that there are what are called long term releases of Ubuntu that are designed to last for three years. These are not upgraded to a newer version as there is no reason to do so since that is how it is designed. These need to have the updates from time to time but never the major upgrade until the three years has expired.
If you have not updated Ubuntu in awhile, an easier method might be to download the new distribution and install it. Afterwards put your home folder settings in place to get back your old settings.
[ad_2]
Source by Emile Franks
Post a Comment