Microprocessors based protective relays have been generally used to give many advantages involving monitoring, system performance, compliance and technology. In recent times, benefits have begun to restore already creation of microprocessor-based protective devices with controls and modern intelligent electronic devices (IEDs) protection. The upgrade is partly due to higher earlier device generation failure rates, as well as benefiting from new features including system integration, Synchrophasor application, communication IEC61850 and cyber security. The method of updating numerical relays is very special and much more complicated than updating conventional electromechanical or solid-state relays with an identical working unit. In addition to replacing the hardware, it is necessary to consider functions related to cyber security, protection, automation and control, event recording and digital communications. Safety and control device professionals continue to handle the asset and develop plans with feedback from other partners through business lines as well as externally with suppliers, authorities, contractors or even adjacent utilities as the specification and implementation requirements have changed with new technologies and functions being added. This paper addresses the existing aspects of asset management, efficiency, substitution, and technology, focused on T&D utility activities. Strategies and functional issues including compliance with hardware and software, security settings, or other functionality such as automation or other potential combined and similar set point functions, as well as commissioning and checking while modifying or removing a microprocessor system are defined in depth. This paper will assist utility or business electrical engineers with an existing relay improvement initiative, or intend to update their outdated microprocessor relays through lessons gained from several large North America power companies.