When you hear the word ‘patches’ you don’t instantly think of anything IT – more like holes, maybe pimples, even pirates?
Patches are software and operating system (OS) updates that address security vulnerabilities within a program or product. They’re important to ensure software and applications aren’t susceptible to cyber-attacks, thus reducing security risks.
Check out our latest InfoByte to learn a little bit more about patches and how we use them to keep your systems afloat!
What is a software patch?
A software patch is a quick-repair job for a piece of programming designed to resolve functionality issues, improve security or add new features.
But why is it called a patch?
Historically, software suppliers distributed patches on paper tape or on punched cards, expecting the recipient to cut out the indicated part of the original tape (or deck), and patch in (hence the name) the replacement segment.
Are there different types of software patches?
Software patches generally fall into three distinct categories. A single patch can fall into more than one category, however. These categories include bug fixes, security updates and feature updates.
Have you heard of patch Tuesday?
On the second Tuesday of each month, Microsoft releases critical updates – or patches – that correct specific vulnerabilities in the Windows desktop and server OS. They also fix issues with Microsoft Office applications and supported Windows systems.
Patches that are not security related come out the fourth Tuesday of the month. If a very serious vulnerability has been identified and fixed, Microsoft will release an ‘out-of-band’ patch if required.
Our job is to test their efficacy before we roll them out onto your systems to keep them afloat.
We only use patches to keep your systems afloat...and not a pirate in sight...
