Microsoft’s flawed approach to application updates wreaks havoc on Windows PCs

Si es usuario de Windows, es posible que haya notado que algunas de sus aplicaciones no funcionan como se esperaba después de una actualización reciente. Esto se debe a que Microsoft tiene un enfoque defectuoso para las actualizaciones de aplicaciones que causa estragos en las PC con Windows. En esta publicación de blog, explicaré cuál es el problema y cómo evitarlo.

Microsoft’s application update system is based on the assumption that all applications are compatible with the latest version of Windows. This means that every time Microsoft releases a new update for Windows, it also releases updates for all applications running on Windows. However, this assumption is often wrong, as many applications are not tested and optimized for the new version of Windows. As a result, some applications may crash, freeze or malfunction after an update.

This is not only frustrating for users, but also risky for their data and security. Some applications may lose important data or settings after an update or expose users to security vulnerabilities. For example, some users reported that their antivirus software stopped working after a Windows update, leaving their PCs unprotected against malware. Other users reported that their video editing software became unusable after an update, ruining their projects and deadlines.

The solution to this problem is simple: Microsoft should stop forcing application updates on users and allow them to choose when and how they update. Users should be able to control which applications they want to update and which they want to keep as they are. Users should also be able to revert to previous versions of applications if they encounter any problems with the new ones. In this way, users can ensure that their applications are compatible with their version of Windows and that they work as expected.

Microsoft’s flawed approach to application updates is not only annoying, but also detrimental to Windows users. It undermines the stability and performance of their PCs and puts their data and security at risk. Microsoft should respect users’ choice and preference and allow them to decide how to manage their application updates.

It is true that many popular applications, including WinRAR, may not have built-in mechanisms for automatic updates. Potentially, this can leave users vulnerable to security flaws if they are not proactive in updating their software. There are a few reasons why this situation persists:

1. **Development practices:** Some software developers may not prioritize or invest resources in implementing automatic update features. They may focus on other aspects of the application, assuming that users will manually check for updates.

2. **Legacy systems: Older applications that have been around for a long time may not have been designed with modern automatic update mechanisms in mind. Upgrading such functions in existing software can be complicated.

3. **User control:** Developers may be concerned about user preferences for control over updates. Some users prefer to have control over when and how updates are installed, while others prefer the convenience of automatic updates.

4. **Resource limitations:** Smaller development teams or open source projects may lack the resources to implement and maintain automatic update features. Requires ongoing infrastructure and support.

As for Windows, the operating system provides a platform for automatic updates through the Windows Update service, but this is mainly focused on system updates and security patches. It does not cover third-party applications, leaving the responsibility to developers and users.

To address these issues, several solutions have been proposed or implemented over time, including centralized app stores (such as Microsoft Store) that can manage updates for installed applications. However, as you mentioned, adoption of these stores has been mixed and many users still rely on downloading software directly from developer websites.

In the case of critical security vulnerabilities, it is critical that users stay informed about updates and apply them promptly. Security-conscious users often turn to dedicated software updaters or services that can help manage updates for multiple applications in one place.

Developers, on the other hand, are increasingly recognizing the importance of implementing automatic update mechanisms and secure coding practices to mitigate security risks. It is an ongoing process that involves developers and users working together to create a more secure computing environment.