Automatic Updates

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Automatic Updates

Keeping MLS 2026 Current

MasterLink Shop Writer includes an automated update service designed to keep your system current with the latest authorized program revisions, improvements, and corrections. The update utilities are included automatically with both the CD installation package and online installation downloads.

The update system operates through your internet connection and is designed to require very little user interaction once it has been properly installed. For best performance and reliability, MasterLink Software strongly recommends a full-time broadband internet connection on the server computer.


How The Update System Works

The MasterLink Shop Writer server installation includes a background update utility that periodically checks the MasterLink Software update servers for authorized program revisions.

When a new release is available:

1.The server computer automatically downloads the updated files.

2.The update is stored locally on the server.

3.Each workstation checks the server version whenever MasterLink Shop Writer starts.

4.If a newer release is detected, the workstation automatically updates itself from the server.

This process normally takes only a few seconds and requires no special action by the operator.

Because all workstations update directly from the server, version consistency throughout the network is maintained automatically.


Internet Requirements

The automatic update system requires:

An active internet connection on the server

Access to the MasterLink Software update servers

Proper firewall permissions allowing update communications

If the server does not maintain a regular internet connection, then update checks and downloads cannot occur automatically.


Authorized Updates Only

Automatic updates are available only to companies with active:

Support agreements

Update service subscriptions

Current licensing authorization

If your support or update service has expired, the update server will not authorize new releases.


IMPORTANT WARNING

Do NOT manually install updates if your support agreement is not current.

If an unauthorized update is installed:

The system may become disabled

Program authorization may fail

Workstations may no longer operate properly

MasterLink Software cannot roll back unauthorized installations.

If your account requires renewal, you must:

1.Contact MasterLink Software

2.Bring the account current

3.Obtain updated authorization

before installing or activating newer software versions.


Recommended Best Practices

Maintain Regular Internet Access

A broadband connection allows:

Faster update downloads

More reliable workstation synchronization

Immediate access to important fixes and improvements


Update During Off Hours When Possible

Although updates are generally quick, it is often best to:

Allow server updates overnight

Restart workstations before opening business

Verify all systems are functioning normally before beginning operations


Keep Workstations Consistent

All computers on the network should:

Run the same MLS version

Update from the same server

Avoid manually copying program files between systems


Backup Before Major Updates

Although updates are tested carefully, it is always wise to:

Perform regular backups

Verify backup integrity

Retain historical backup copies

before installing significant version changes.


Troubleshooting Update Issues

Workstation Does Not Update

Check:

Network connection to the server

Server is powered on

User has rights to the MLS folder

Antivirus software is not blocking file updates


Server Does Not Download Updates

Check:

Internet connection

Firewall permissions

Antivirus restrictions

Support agreement status


Version Mismatch Between Computers

This usually indicates:

One workstation could not update

Manual file copying occurred

Network permissions are incorrect

Restart the workstation and allow MLS to update automatically from the server.


Technical Support

If you experience update authorization or synchronization problems, contact:

MasterLink Software

949-589-3186

Sales@MasterLinkSoftware.com

Please have:

Your company information

Current MLS version number

Server operating system

Description of the issue

available before calling support.