Software Update vs Upgrade

A software update applies patches and minor changes to the version you already run, such as 3.2.1 to 3.2.2. An upgrade moves to a new major release, such as version 3 to version 4, which can change features and compatibility.

Why it matters

Updates mostly fix bugs and security flaws and are low risk, so apply them promptly. Upgrades can remove features, change file formats, or break plugins, so test them first. Operating systems and applications often label the two differently, and vendors use both words loosely.

Security fixes for an old major version eventually stop.

Example

$ sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade     # updates installed packages
$ sudo do-release-upgrade                  # moves to the next OS release

Note that apt itself uses the word upgrade for ordinary package updates.

Common misconceptions

Delaying security updates for months because they feel disruptive.
Upgrading production directly without a test copy or backup.
Assuming the words always mean the same thing across vendors.

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