Patchning

Patchning refers to the act of applying patches to modify, fix, or improve a system, device, or material. In technology contexts, patches are updates released by developers to address security vulnerabilities, fix bugs, or add features. Patching is a routine part of maintenance for software, firmware, and even some hardware and network environments. Outside IT, patching can refer to repairing textiles by sewing patches, applying transdermal drug patches in medicine, or patching electrical or fiber connections in infrastructure.

In software and systems, patches are different from upgrades. Patches target specific flaws; upgrades may introduce new features and are broader. They are distributed as patches, hotfixes, service packs, or firmware updates.

Patch management life cycle: inventory of assets, vulnerability assessment, patch classification, testing in a controlled environment, staged deployment, and verification. Rollback plans and backups are essential in case a patch causes issues. Automation and standardized change management improve speed and reduce risk.

Risks include the introduction of new bugs, compatibility problems, and potential downtime; success requires testing and deconfliction with other updates. Best practices include maintaining an up-to-date inventory, prioritizing patches by severity, applying critical patches promptly, testing patches before broad deployment, monitoring post-deployment results, and maintaining rollback procedures. In regulated environments, patching can be subject to audits and compliance controls.