Computer Patch Facts
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Anyone who regularly uses a computer for work or play has dealt with a security patch or program upgrade from time to time. In computing terms, "patch" refers to software designed to correct problems or update computer programs and applies to more than just security issues. Patches may also improve program performance.
At one time, patches were delivered on paper tape or punch card for cutting and pasting onto the original tape or card to replace outdated material. Magnetic tape, then disks and CD ROMs, eventually replaced paper tape and punch cards for patch delivery. Today, computer users download program and security updates via the Internet.
Have you heard of a hot patch? A hot patch is applied without the need for an end unit or specific program to shut down. This method eliminates the need for lengthy system shutdown periods during upgrades. Security patches specifically address software vulnerabilities. Threats pop up daily, threats that could shut down an entire network if allowed access. Operating systems regularly issue new security patches to circumvent malware and spyware infections.
Unfortunately, improperly designed patches and upgrades have been responsible for software regressions, or new problems introduced by the software. These "bugs" alter the function of a system feature upon the occurrence of a specific event, such as a change to daylight savings time, or slow the speed of a program's function.
Software regressions generally fall under one of the following three categories: (i) a local software regression, in which a new bug enters an upgraded component via the upgrade itself, (ii) a remote software regression, in which an upgrade in one component triggers functionality breakdown in another part of the software, and (iii) an unmasked software regression, in which an upgrade reveals a previously introduced, dormant bug.
Experts recommend regression testing prior to any new patch release. Regression testing uncovers issues that may have been created in other software components during the process of correcting the initial problem.
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