Difference between software updates and software upgrades

Many people are often confused with the terms "Update" and "Upgrade".

Q) What is a software Update?

Ans. A software update means adding new drivers, fixing bugs, minor enhancements etc. Usually when a particular version is released, many bugs are found. These bugs are fixed in the next software update. Sometimes it can so happen that a particular version may not support certain drivers like printers etc. Then in the next software update, the drivers are added.

For example, a change of version from “firefox 2.0.0.2” to “firefox 2.0.0.3” or any other version in the sequence of 2.0.0.x, where x is any updated version is called a software update.

Usually the software vendors do not specify any price for a software update.

Q) What is a software upgrade?

Ans. A software upgrade includes a major enhancement in a software. This can add more number of features to the newer version which is released. Usually they come in beta versions ( A pre-release version of a product that is sent to customers and partners for evaluation and feedback ). Later on, the complete version is released.

For example, a change of version from “firefox 2.0.0.x” to “firefox 3.0” is a software upgrade, where 'x ' is any number of the already released versions.

Usually non-free software vendors fix a price for a software upgrade.


Summary

A software update can include only minor variations among versions, but an update can include major variations among versions. Non-free software vendors like Kaspersky, Norton etc. charge for software upgrades. But the updations are always free.