Keep Current
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Millions of lines of code are written every day. With so much code, there are bound to be bugs- but some bugs put your data at risk.
We call those vulnerabilities. Software updates fix the code that makes us vulnerable.
Follow the links below to learn how to keep your systems at Harvard and at home secure and up to date.
Update Harvard-Managed Systems
The various schools and units within Harvard provide support for many systems through system management software. The best way to get updates for your Harvard managed system is through that software.
Service Desk Calls
Local IT support helps keep your computer up to date and secure. No Harvard support service team will ever send an update as an E-mail attachment. They will not have a vendor call your to install a file.
Staying Managed
If you don’t have security software running on your computer, contact your local service desk to get it installed.
- School: HUIT Managed Systems
- Windows Management: SCCM
- OS X Management: JAMF
Rebooting Schedule
Reboot weekly so your computer stays updated. Feel free to shut down your computer at night.
Update Self-Managed Systems
Harvard managed systems aren’t the only ones that need to stay up-to-date. Here are some great resources for keeping your personal systems updated and secure.
Product End of Life
Nothing Lasts Forever
If the updates stop coming, does that mean there are no more bugs? No!
Manufacturers eventually stop supporting their older products as new ones replace them.
If you’re using outdated products, plan to upgrade as soon as you can.
These include:
- iPhone 5 or earlier
- Samsung phones 2016 or earlier
- Google phones 2016 or earlier
- Windows 7
- Windows XP
- MacOS 10.12 Sierra or earlier
Resources
Apply Updates Resources
Posters and Infographics to print and share.
Apply Updates Infographic
Download Infographic file (PDF)