In the context of Linux and UNIX operating systems, “software update” and “software upgrade” are two different concepts.
A “software update” refers to the installation of new patches, bug fixes, security fixes, or other minor changes to the existing software on your system. Software updates usually address issues with stability, security, or performance, and are often released by the software vendor on a regular basis. Installing software updates helps keep your system secure and functioning properly.
A “software upgrade”, on the other hand, refers to the installation of a new major version of a software package or the operating system itself. A software upgrade typically involves replacing the existing software with a completely new version, and can result in changes to the user interface, new features, and improved performance. Software upgrades often require more disk space and processing power than software updates, and can sometimes result in compatibility issues with other software or hardware.
In general, it’s a good idea to keep your software updated, and to only upgrade to a new version if you need the new features or performance improvements that it provides. Before upgrading, it’s also a good idea to back up your important data and verify that your hardware and software are compatible with the new version.