BTEC IT PRACTITIONERS - Unit 23 - Installing and Upgrading Software

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Task 1 (P1)

There are a number of reasons for upgrading software, generally the main reason is that the software has been improved or security problems have been addressed, or it offers new functionality.

You may also install or update software when a new piece of hardware is installed in order to make it compatible. Other reasons may include software which is no longer supported by the manufacturer.

If the software in question brings new functionality to the computer system in day to day life or work, and makes that task easier, then you should consider updating.

(P2)

Software patches may fix one problem, but then create another problem. Big organisations with a wide user base such as Windows will quickly fix such problems with either another update to fix it, or publish information about fixing it.  With smaller companies with a much smaller user base, it is often difficult to find solutions for problems.  Upgraded software may not be compatible with your current hardware configuration. If the update changes the way files are saved, the backwards compatibility may not be possible.


Task 2 (P3)

        

(P5)

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Task 3 (M2)

You should have a back out plan, whereby, if something goes wrong, you will be able to restore the computer to the original settings, with the correct configuration settings and files. Before carrying out any upgrade, you should always backup all configuration settings and files, and if possible, you should keep the backup on two separate devices.

You should record information about the computer, including version number, the software that is currently installed on the computer and the number of updates applied to the system.

You should record all the updates you ...

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