Regular security and system updates for CMS systems – is that really necessary? Many customers ask us why this is necessary – after all, updates often involve effort and costs. The answer is simple: putting off updates saves money in the short term, but jeopardises security and performance and even your good reputation in the long term.

Here you can find out what updates do, what risks arise if they are ignored and why they are simply indispensable.

No content management system (CMS) can do without regular maintenance. Security gaps, outdated technologies or incompatibilities can become a danger. This is where updates come into play. Depending on the CMS manufacturer, different types of updates are provided, each with different objectives.

What is the difference between a security update, minor update and major update? What about plugins?

Security updates

Security updates close specific security gaps and protect the CMS against known and new threats, for example by improving encryption or authentication methods. These updates are crucial for protection against cyber attacks and should be installed immediately.

Minor-Updates

Minor updates improve the core software through bug fixes, performance enhancements and minor functional enhancements. They provide a more stable and compatible basis without making major changes to the overall system. As a rule, they are easy to install and require little follow-up work.

Major-Updates

Major updates entail far-reaching changes, such as the introduction of new functions, significant performance improvements or comprehensive architecture updates in the CMS. These updates often require more thorough testing and preparation, but ensure a permanently stable software basis and sustainable further development.

Plugin-Updates

Plugin updates affect individual extensions to the CMS. They fix bugs, optimise security, improve compatibility and add new functions. As outdated plugins often represent vulnerabilities, regular updates are essential to ensure the security and stability of the overall system. If a website looks outdated or is missing essential functions, the need for an update is obvious and the associated effort is usually quickly accepted by the company’s decision-making body. The situation is different for security updates or adjustments to the core CMS. Here, the weaknesses are usually not obvious. To avoid a rude awakening, a more comprehensive understanding and willingness to invest in preventive updates is required.

Let’s stay on the subject of security.

Why are updates so important?

1. Safety comes first

Without regular updates, you open the door to hacker attacks. Popular CMS systems such as WordPress are particularly popular targets for cybercriminals, as known vulnerabilities in old versions can be easily exploited. Security updates close these gaps and protect your data and that of your customers.

2. Optimized performance and stability

Outdated CMS versions can lead to longer loading times or even failures. Regular updates ensure that your website works smoothly, loads faster and remains stable. These improvements have a direct impact on your users’ satisfaction and your SEO rankings.

3. New functions and better user experience

CMS manufacturers often bring new features and improvements to the market with updates that make your website more modern and user-friendly. These innovations can help you capitalise on current trends and remain competitive.

4. Legal security

Especially in the EU, your website is subject to strict data protection regulations such as the GDPR. Regular updates ensure that your CMS remains technically up to date and fulfils legal requirements. Outdated systems can quickly become a problem here – up to and including severe fines.

What happens if I refuse CMS updates?

Many believe that doing without updates saves time and money. But the opposite is true: without regular updates, there are considerable risks and high follow-up costs.

1. Security gaps and hacker attacks

A CMS that has not been updated is an easy target for hackers. The consequences can be serious:

• Data loss or theft:Sensitive information such as customer data or business data can fall into the wrong hands.
• Manipulation of the website: Hackers could insert malware or change the content of your site, which could damage your reputation.
• Complete failure: Your website could become unusable – a disaster for companies that rely on their online presence.

2. Poor user experience and loss of SEO

Outdated systems often lead to longer loading times, errors and poor performance. The result: users leave your site before they have even gained an impression of your company. Search engines such as Google rate such pages negatively, which has a direct impact on your ranking in search results.

3. Incompatibility with plugins and tools

CMS updates ensure that your website remains compatible with the latest plugins, themes and third-party tools. Without updates, there is a risk of technical problems:

• Faulty functions: Important features such as contact forms or payment options could fail.
• Problems with the display: Incompatible themes can lead to faulty or unattractive websites.

4. Legal and financial risks

An outdated CMS often does not fulfil current data protection and security standards. This can not only lead to fines, but also to a loss of trust from your customers.

Conclusion: Updates are an investment in the future

CMS updates may be a hassle in the short term, but they provide long-term protection against security problems, legal consequences and technical faults. Whether it’s Pimcore, WordPress, Kirby or another system, regular updates are essential to keep your online presence secure and competitive.

Keep your CMS system up to date – and leave this task to us! We take care of updates, security checks and everything else so that you can concentrate fully on your core business.