How do you test software updates?

1 Backup your data

The first step to test software updates is to backup your data. This means creating a copy of your important files, settings, and preferences that you can restore in case something goes wrong with the update. You can backup your data using external devices, cloud services, or built-in tools depending on your operating system and software. For example, Windows 10 has a File History feature that lets you backup your files to an external drive or network location. You should backup your data regularly and especially before testing software updates.

2 Create a test environment

The next step to test software updates is to create a test environment. This means setting up a separate system or device that you can use to install and run the updates without affecting your main system or device. A test environment can be a physical or virtual machine, a sandbox, or a partition. For example, you can use a virtual machine software like VirtualBox or VMware to create a virtual computer that runs the same operating system and software as your main computer. You can then install the updates on the virtual machine and see how they work.

3 Install the updates

The third step to test software updates is to install the updates on the test environment. You can download the updates from the official sources or use the built-in update tools of your operating system and software. For example, you can use Windows Update or Mac App Store to check for and install the latest updates for your system and applications. You should install the updates one at a time and reboot the test environment after each installation to see if there are any issues.

4 Test the functionality

The fourth step to test software updates is to test the functionality of the updated software. This means checking if the software works as expected, if there are any new features or improvements, and if there are any bugs or errors. You can test the functionality by using the software normally or by following a test plan or a checklist. For example, you can test if the software opens and closes properly, if it performs the tasks you need, if it interacts with other software or devices, and if it displays any error messages or warnings.

5 Test the compatibility

The fifth step to test software updates is to test the compatibility of the updated software. This means checking if the software works well with your system, device, hardware, and other software. You can test the compatibility by using the software in different scenarios or by running a compatibility test tool. For example, you can test if the software runs smoothly on your system or device, if it supports your hardware or peripherals, and if it works with other software or formats that you use.

6 Evaluate the results

The final step to test software updates is to evaluate the results of your testing. This means comparing the performance and user experience of the updated software with the previous version and deciding if the update is worth installing on your main system or device. You can evaluate the results by using your own criteria or by following a rating system or a feedback form. For example, you can evaluate if the update improves the security, functionality, or compatibility of the software, if it adds any value or benefit, and if it has any drawbacks or risks.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?