How to check and install Android security updates

Step by step

1. 15 sec

   Access the System Settings menu

   Unlock your device and locate the Settings app from your home screen or app drawer. Tap the gear icon to open the main configuration menu.

2. 15 sec

   Locate the Security and Privacy section

   Scroll down the menu list until you find Security & privacy. Tap this option to enter the dedicated security control panel.

3. 30 sec

   Open system update settings

   Look for the System & updates or Security update menu item. Tap on Security update to view the current status of your software version.

   Note: On some manufacturer skins, this may be nested under 'About phone' followed by 'Software information'.
4. 45 sec

   Initiate the update check

   The device will display the date of the last installed security patch. Tap the Check for update button to query the Google or manufacturer servers for new files.

5. 2 min

   Apply the available update

   If an update is found, tap the Download and install button. Keep the device powered on and connected to the internet while the package downloads and prepares for installation.

   Note: Your phone will be unusable for standard tasks while the installation progress bar completes.
6. 1 min

   Reboot the device to finalize

   Once the installation process completes, tap the Restart now button to apply the changes. The device will perform a soft reset to initialize the new security protocols.

   Note: Verify the patch date in Settings after the reboot to confirm successful installation.