Most people wouldn’t trust the security of their homes to old locks or windows that don’t fully close. The same sentiment is rarely seen with old technology used around the home.
While personal devices used to be limited to a portable mobile phone and a family PC, the average North American now has 13 personal devices, a 63% increase over the past five years. With that many devices, it can be difficult, and rather costly, to keep them all up to date. However, beyond subpar performance and appearances, there are many risks associated with continuing to use outdated technology around the home.
What makes technology outdated?
Generally, there’s no specific point at which technology becomes outdated. A piece of hardware or software just gradually becomes more dated as time passes and newer, better versions are available. You could, however, link it to the continuation of support by the technology’s manufacturer.
If you can no longer get a device serviced by the manufacturer, or an app stops receiving regular updates and security patches, it’s safe to consider these obsolete products. Similarly, an outdated system is one that is no longer compatible with new releases, like when new apps don’t work with older versions of an operating system.
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Common obsolete technology examples in your home
In the US, around 18% of homes are considered smart homes, categorized by having six or more smart home devices. There are many examples of outdated technology in your home that you should keep an eye out for, such as:
Personal devices
Laptops, PCs, tablets, and smartwatches are some of the most common personal devices. They also carry some of the greatest risk when they become obsolete as that’s where you’d usually keep the majority of your personal data and information.
Smart home IoT devices
Smart locks, smart thermostats, smart fridges, personal assistants, smart lighting, and smart doorbell cameras are all home IoT devices. They’re usually made to blend into the background of your everyday life, making them easy to forget about long-term.
Old operating systems
Whether it’s Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS, new versions of operating systems are released every few years, with new functionality and security features. The problem is that many personal devices aren’t compatible with the latest releases, leaving you stuck with outdated software.
End-of-life (EOL) software products
When companies move on to newer products, they usually stop sending out updates and security patches for older releases and discontinued products. These are called end-of-life (EOL) products, and they’re usually more vulnerable to malfunctions and security risks.
6 risks of using outdated technology
At first glance, it might seem harmless to continue using a device or software way beyond its obsolescence. However, that might not be a good idea, as there are many risks associated with using outdated technology on a daily basis.
Some technology risk examples include:
- Security concerns: With outdated tech comes outdated security measures and persistent bugs. This makes older devices and software much easier to hack. They also might not withstand newer viruses and malware circulating the web.
- Data loss: Your old device or software can crash and stop at a moment’s notice. This could lead to unanticipated and irreversible data loss, as recovery could be costly with no official parts or tech support available.
- Incompatibility with modern systems: You might have a hard time syncing data between old and new devices. The same applies to gadgets like Bluetooth devices, which might only be compatible with an older, obsolete version of the tech.
- Poor performance: Compared to what’s currently available, your outdated technology will seem lacking in features, slow, and clunky to use.
- Safety hazard: Primarily when it comes to old physical devices, risks of overheating and electrical malfunction are higher. That’s because older technology doesn’t have modern security features, and the wear and tear of long-term use may also increase risk.
- Increased costs: With old and discontinued technology, authentic parts and knowledgeable technicians are harder to find and more expensive. Not to mention, an older device is much more likely to require repair than a fresh-out-the-box device, despite the upfront cost.
The importance of keeping your tech up to date
In addition to convenience and improved performance, keeping your technology up to date is also a way to keep yourself and your data safe. Only using the latest version of an app or software means you have access to the most recent security measures implemented by the developers.
With up-to-date devices, you’re more protected from exploits and attacks that take advantage of a bug or flaw that grants access to the system. Not to mention, it can be harder to receive support or help from the developer if an attack does occur, unlike the company’s response when current versions of their software are compromised.
Staying up to date can also help with some functionality issues, like connectivity and reliability. Both software and personal devices are less likely to crash or have trouble connecting with other devices if they’re kept to the latest version possible.
6 best practices for keeping your tech current
Keeping your personal technology up to date isn’t always about buying the latest smartphone or tablet. Taking better care of your personal devices can prolong their lifespan, maintaining reliable performance and functionality.
Some best practices to keep in mind:
- Set up automatic software updates: All mainstream operating systems for desktop and mobile devices allow for automatic software updates. With that, you never have to think about updating an app or software for the rest of its lifespan.
- Periodically replace hardware: Try to replace specific hardware pieces as often as recommended by the manufacturer. This is particularly important for internal and external storage devices, as you run the risk of data loss if they stop working.
- Regularly back up your data: Whether it’s software or hardware issues, regularly backing up your data will save you from a hefty bill down the line if you have to pay for professional data recovery.
- Uninstall unused or EOL software: The fewer apps and software you have on a device, particularly EOL and outdated software, the lower the risks of a successful exploit. Not only does this keep your data safe, but some malware can also cause physical damage by disabling cooling systems on the CPU and graphics card.
- Stay informed about the latest tech trends: By keeping up to date yourself, you can make more informed decisions about individual devices or apps that warrant a replacement. For example, new testing can show that a particular model is at a higher risk of overheating, or maybe a zero-day exploit is uncovered with an app you regularly use.
- Use dedicated security and privacy tools: If the device isn’t sold as a security device first and foremost, its built-in security is likely to be lackluster. You should always use strong passwords, as well as dedicated security and privacy tools like a password manager on all personal devices to keep them safe from harm.
At home, you’re your own security team
With an average of 13 devices on hand, keeping track of necessary software and hardware updates can be a daunting task. Luckily, you can make use of trusted personal security and privacy tools to take some of the load off. Password managers and VPNs, in particular, are two powerful solutions that can exponentially boost your smart home’s security.
Want to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals? Read our in-depth tips and advice for improved personal security.
References
- Statistica, “Overconsumption: The Growing Desire for Ever More Devices,” July 2024.
- Parks Associates, “Survey: 18% US homes have 6 or more smart devices,” April 2024.
- USA Today, “Remove these 5 dangerous tech gadgets from your home,” November 2022.
- Dashlane, “Is My Smart Fridge Listening to Me? And Other Concerns,” January 2024.
- Dashlane, “What is the Internet of Things and How Safe Is It?”April 2024.
- Bitsight, “5 Risks Of Outdated Software & Operating Systems,” February 2024.
- Gizmodo, “The Never-Ending Death of Smart Home Gadgets,” March 2020.
- Flexera, “End of life (EOL) and end of support (EOS).”
- Dashlane, “Why You Should Keep Your Apps Updated,” February 2024.
- How-To Geek, “PSA: Your Old Gadgets Are a Fire Hazard, Here's What to Do,” April 2022.
- Athens Micro, “Outdated Technology Costs You More Than You Think,” July 2024.
- PC Mag, “Privacy Concerns? Not Here. This Smart Home Tech Is (Still) Flying Off Shelves,” August 2022.
- Data Recovery Station, “Why Data Recovery Is So Expensive.”
- Dashlane, “7 Ways to Determine if You Have a Strong (or Weak) Password,” April 2024.
- Dashlane, “What Is a Zero-Day Vulnerability?” February 2024.
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