What's the Difference Between Software Updates and Software Upgrades?

It’s easy to use the terms “software update” and “software upgrade” interchangeably, but when it comes to determining what you need to meet your business goals, it makes a big, monetary difference. 

In this blog, we’ll define software updates and software upgrades, how often you need to do either, and more.

Software Update vs. Upgrade

Before we dive in, let’s talk about what separates the two.

A software update is when you update the current image you’re running to a more recent version of the same software. This might include patches for vulnerabilities, stabilization, and more.

Updates in new hardware in the first 12-16 months of production are different from updates at 24 months or more. That’s because at 24 months and on, updates are made and released because of different user reports, but aren’t usually relevant to most users.

A software upgrade provides an enhanced feature that is not currently available on the image you’re running. There will always be a cost associated with an upgrade.

When Do I Need to Update Software?

With the number of updates continuously released, it’s impossible to keep up, and the truth is, you likely don’t even need to. We know you’re busy, and you don’t have time to make superficial updates that may not even be relevant in your specific network. 

Historically, updates have caused more harm than good by potentially addressing one issue but breaking something else downstream.

Determining whether you should NEED to plan for updates will depend on where the update takes place in your network. If it’s a core or security device and the update addresses security concerns, you definitely need it. If the update is for a switch, access point, or wireless controller, it’s very likely not necessary. 

Think about it this way: You live in a castle with a moat full of alligators. That moat secures entry to your castle. Inside the castle, there is no need to guard every door because the moat and alligators outside are taking care of that. However, if you forget to keep the moat full and your alligators leave to find water, your security drops and invaders get in. 

The same is true with security updates for core and security equipment. If attackers get past those because of vulnerability updates you didn’t make, everything else is in trouble, too.

For IOS updates, don’t just take the OEM’s word for it. Look at where the update will occur in your network and determine how an update would affect it. If the impact is minimal, you probably don’t need that IOS update.

How Often Should Software Be Upgraded

While shiny new things are pretty, the reality is that you likely won’t need to upgrade any of your software unless you need to add a new feature that isn't covered in your current bundled software. 

On the flip side, sometimes buying new hardware is cheaper than upgrading licensing on older equipment. For example, we had a client looking to add IPSEC tunnels to his router and needed the SEC license/ features.  The stand-alone license required to add IPSEC to the base model bundled software is listed for $2,000 while a certified router with the enhanced bundled software from Edgeium was only $450.

How Can Edgeium Help Me Decide Update vs. Upgrade?

Not sure whether you need a software upgrade vs. an update? The Edgeium team is happy to walk you through it. Together, we’ll talk about whether your equipment is meeting business goals, and we’ll teach you how to update IOS as you need it without a SMARTnet contract.