The immediate steps to consider in solving an Android Software malfunctioning

What could be the immediate steps to take if the Android software on a phone is not responding or malfunctioning? I am currently using an Android version of 4.1.2. Could it be that because my version is not updated is the reason or cause for the malfunctioning of the software? What are the some of the safety measures one would have to take to prevent such occurrences and perhaps if they do happen?
