Skype Updater
Skype became a de facto standard of VoIP application. Millions of people use Skype on a daily basis. Skype application is actively maintained, software updates are shipped to keep users up to date with recent changes which provide the latest functionality and fix critical bugs. But sometimes updates are not welcome.
Skype recently became an object of criticism for its aggressive update policy. Due to this aggressive policy Skype's behavior is commonly compared to Malware [5].
Known Update Targets
- Skype
Official Ways for Disabling
Skype provides a recommended way to disable updates. See [1].
Since version 5.9 Skype has a built-in way to disable updates: Tools > Options > Automatic Updates. This way disables Skype Updater service.
Support by Update Freezer
Update Freezer offers several options to manage Skype updates.
- Disabled. All updates are disabled. Update Freezer uses three methods.
- Official method [1] that turns off all minor updates.
- Another official method: stop and disable Skype Updater service.
- Unofficial method [2,3,4] which completely disables all Skype updates. The idea of this method is to block access to the file %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Temp\SkypeSetup.exe that Skype uses for downloading updates.
- Major Only. Only major updates are allowed. Minor updates are disabled via an official way [1].
- Enabled. All updates are enabled.
Drawbacks of Update Freeze
Disabling automated updates in operating systems like Microsoft Windows does offer temporary benefits, such as preserving system stability or saving bandwidth. However, it also introduces significant risks, primarily leaving your system exposed to security vulnerabilities that are regularly patched in these updates.
Why Regular Updates Are Critical:
- Security Patches: Updates address newly discovered security flaws that attackers could exploit.
- Performance Improvements: Many updates fix bugs that improve system speed and efficiency.
- Feature Enhancements: Staying updated ensures you benefit from the latest tools and functionalities.
- Compatibility: Regular updates improve compatibility with other software and devices, reducing potential issues.
Risks of Disabling Updates:
- Increased Exposure to Cyber Threats: Hackers often target outdated systems because they lack the latest protections.
- Software Instability: Applications may experience errors or become unusable due to compatibility issues with the unpatched system.
- Data Loss Risks: Vulnerabilities left unpatched can lead to ransomware attacks or data breaches.
Balancing Control and Security:
If pausing updates is necessary for specific reasons, you can still mitigate risks:
- Use Antivirus Software: Ensure robust endpoint protection is in place during the update pause.
- Limit Internet Exposure: Disconnect from the internet if updates must be disabled temporarily.
- Enable Updates Promptly: Resume updates as soon as the pause is no longer critical.
Automate Safe Update Management with Latenode
To ensure you strike the right balance between control and security, Latenode can help you automate the process:
- Smart Scheduling: Automate updates during non-critical hours to avoid interruptions while staying secure.
- Conditional Updates: Configure workflows that enable updates only after essential tasks or projects are complete.
- Vulnerability Monitoring: Set up alerts for known vulnerabilities so you can prioritize specific patches.
- Selective Updates: Automate the installation of only critical security updates while deferring non-urgent patches.
By leveraging automation, you can maintain the flexibility to pause updates when necessary without compromising the security and integrity of your system.
References
- Skype IT Administrators Guide:
http://download.skype.com/share/business/guides/skype-it-administrators-guide.pdf - How to disable Skype 5 auto update:
http://proger.i-forge.net/How_to_disable_Skype_5_auto_update/7RS - Skype - How to disable automatic updates:
http://www.qa.downappz.com/questions/skype-how-to-disable-automatic-updates.html - Skype forum thread containing an unofficial way to disable updates (JonoMac's post):
http://community.skype.com/t5/Windows/How-to-disable-Skype-updates/td-p/6710/page/2</ - How to disable automatic updates in Skype 5? You can’t. It’s Malware.
http://asiteaboutnothing.net/blog/?p=40
