October is Cyber Security Awareness Month, and while we don't think that cyber awareness is something to cover just once in the year, we think it's a good opportunity to publish some information that can be used all year round.
Awareness Day Eighteen: Regular Updates
"Wherever there is technology there needs to be cybersecurity"

Implementing cybersecurity best practices is important for organisations of all sizes to protect personal, financial and sensitive information.

Awareness Day Eighteen: Regular Updates

Regular updates of both software and firmware is an essential way to help prevent a cyber attack.

Ensure the software patches are controlled centrally and consider enabling an automatic push to devices.

Consider removing devices from the network when they can no longer be upgraded to a supported operating system and iOS version.

Is software regularly reviewed and removed when no longer in use/required by the organisation?

Review the DfE Meeting Digital and Technology Standards in Schools and Colleges : which advises that all online devices and software must be licensed for use and should be patched with the latest security updates.

Review: NCSC Install the Latest Software and App Updates.
Review: NCSC Device Security Guidance
Review DPE's previous articles about software updates:
The importance of software updates (PaperCut vulnerability and Rhysida ransomware)
Be Cyber Aware: Why regular software updates are important

We have two free micro learning videos on this subject:

Why updating devices is crucial:


Stay Secure with Patch Management


We have support, guidance and trackers to help you assess and monitor the DfE Digital Standards 👉 https://digitalstandardstracker.co.uk/