"An operating system, or "OS," is software that communicates with the hardware and allows other programs to run. ... Every desktop computer, tablet, and smartphone includes an operating system that provides basic functionality for the device. Common desktop operating systems include Windows, OS X, and Linux." - Techterms.com

As a private person or, home user who does not have an IT company assuring that you are working with the latest version of your OS, this will be something you need to look after. For example, should be a Microsoft user, it is not recommended to utilise older versions of Windows (like Windows 7 which is no longer officially supported by Microsoft). Windows 10 is the latest Microsoft Operating System and therefore, recommended.

Value-added hint: Should you be running Windows 10, follow these simple instructions to check if updates are needed

Step 1: Type 'Updates' into your Windows icon in the bottom left of your screen and select "Check for updates".

Step 2: Follow the prompts and download updates available.

Note: If you have a contract with an IT company providing managed services, they should have this all in hand and should effect the necessary updates on your behalf in a timely fashion. To check that updates are installed and up to date, you can click on 'View Update History' as seen above, second from the bottom on the list beneath 'Download and install' which you see in blue text on this screen grab.

Recommendations (for those who are unsupported by an official IT structure in their home office environment):

Download Windows 10 updates, preferably on your wifi network and not using a costed mobile hotspot (dongles, sim cards). Updates are generally large therefore, be mindful of potential data costs if you're not downloading these in your office or paid for service provider environment.

As a best practice you should always ensure your machine is backed up when conducting updates. We visit the subject of Backups in this course's final module.

Note: The information in this course does not visit MAC book information.