Hardware Updates and Why they matter.

Hardware System Updates and Why They Matter

Keeping hardware systems current protects your business from avoidable risk. Updates may feel constant, yet they play a key role in security, stability, and performance. Servers and workstations rely on regular updates to stay protected against threats and to support modern software. These updates often include application fixes, system performance improvements, and driver updates for devices such as printers, monitors, and peripherals connected to your workstation.

RSI manages hardware and system updates as a managed service provider. This approach allows clients to work without disruption while staying protected. Consistent updates reduce downtime, limit security gaps, and support long term system reliability.

What System Updates Cover

System updates address more than visual improvements. Each update strengthens the operating system and connected hardware. Patches fix security flaws, improve performance, and ensure devices work as expected. Drivers keep peripherals responsive, while firmware updates help hardware operate safely and efficiently.

Microsoft delivers several types of updates through Windows Update for Windows 10 and Windows 11. These updates fall into two primary categories.

Feature Updates Explained

Feature updates introduce major changes to the operating system. Microsoft releases these updates on an annual schedule. Each new version includes usability improvements, new tools, and security enhancements that reflect how technology evolves.

For example, Microsoft released Windows 10 version 21H1 at the end of 2021 and followed with version 22H2 in 2022. Each feature update improves compatibility, strengthens security, and supports modern workflows. Microsoft supports each version for 18 months. Systems that do not upgrade stop receiving critical security patches.

Quality and Cumulative Updates

Quality and cumulative updates focus on maintenance. Microsoft delivers these updates on the second Tuesday of each month, commonly called Patch Tuesday. These updates fix bugs, close security gaps, and improve system reliability.

Regular installation of these updates keeps systems protected against emerging threats. Consistent patching also reduces system crashes and performance issues, helping teams stay productive.

Non-Microsoft Updates That Matter

Hardware manufacturers also release important updates. These updates often run quietly in the background but play a critical role in system health.

Firmware Updates

Manufacturers such as HP and Dell release firmware updates to keep hardware operating smoothly. Firmware updates support devices like printers, wireless routers, and other peripherals. Many of these updates also address security vulnerabilities that could expose your network.

Manufacturer Driver Updates

Device drivers support hardware performance and stability. Updates for keyboards, mice, monitors, and printers improve functionality and fix known issues. Updated drivers can also resolve sudden hardware failures and security concerns.

How to Check for Windows Updates

Users can quickly check for pending Windows updates with a few steps.

• Open the Start menu
• Type check for Windows updates
• Select the result that appears
• Click the Check for updates button
• Allow Windows to search for and install available updates
• Select Optional updates to review driver updates for printers, monitors, and other devices

Why RSI Manages Updates for You

Managing updates takes time and attention. RSI handles this process so your team can focus on work instead of system maintenance. Proactive update management reduces risk, improves uptime, and supports secure daily operations.