Much like all other software you use, IBM releases periodic upgrades to the Sametime software. But fortunately, upgrading your Sametime client is extremely easy, and you won't lose any of your contacts or information.

How you upgrade your software will depend on how your technical administration staff chooses to distribute the upgrade. They could provide you with the installation file in which you would install the new version of Sametime Connect just like you installed it originally. The installation software will detect where the existing version of the Sametime software is installed, and will install the update in the same place, overlaying the old version with the new version.

The other method of upgrading your Sametime client involves having the administrators "push" the upgrade to you the next time you sign in. When the administrators use this method, they change a setting on the Sametime server that informs your Sametime client that updates are available. Those updates get sent over the network to you, and the installation occurs automatically. You don't have to click on any files or figure out how to install it.

The important thing to remember is that with either method, you won't lose anything that you already have installed. You'll open your Sametime Connect client like you always do, and you can continue to work just like you always have.