To patch, or to update: that is the question. If you thought the terms “patching” and “updating” were interchangeable, you are not alone. Keeping your business’s software and systems secure is a critical part of modern operations. Both “patching” and “updating” represent distinct processes, each playing a vital role in maintaining your digital security and operational efficiency.
This guide will explain what a patch and an update are, the key differences between a patch vs update, and detail why both are needed to protect your business from constantly evolving cyber threats.
What Is a Software Patch?
Think of a patch as a band-aid of code released by software developers to fix a specific problem or vulnerability within an existing program. It’s a targeted repair designed to address a small issue without changing the software’s main functionality.
Patches are typically released to correct security flaws, fix bugs, or improve performance to a small degree.
Types of Patches
Patches can be categorized based on their function:
- Security Patches: These are designed specifically to close security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers.
- Bug-Fix Patches: These resolve errors or “bugs” that cause software to behave unexpectedly or crash.
- Performance Patches: These make minor changes to improve the software’s speed or efficiency.
Patches are often released on an as-needed basis, especially when a new cyber threat is discovered. The risk of ignoring them is that it leaves your systems vulnerable to known threats, leaving the door wide open for cyberattacks.
What Is a Software Update?
An update is a more considerable software release that can include, but isn’t limited to, new features, significant performance enhancements, or major changes to the user interface. They are designed to improve the overall software experience and keep it current.
Types of Updates
Updates generally fall into two main categories:
- Minor Updates: These offer smaller feature additions or incremental improvements to the existing software version.
- Major Updates: These are significant upgrades that often introduce a completely new version of the software, packed with new capabilities and a redesigned interface.
Updates are typically released on a regular, scheduled basis, such as annually or semi-annually. Ignoring updates means you miss out on new functionalities and could be running an outdated version of the software that is no longer supported by the developer, leaving you without vital security support.
What’s the Difference? Patch vs Update
Patch
- Purpose: Fixes a specific, urgent issue (e.g., a security hole)
- Scope: Small and targeted
- Frequency: Released as needed, often urgently
- Security Role: Provides an immediate, reactive defense against a known threat
Update
- Purpose: Adds new features, enhances functionality, and improves UX
- Scope: Large and comprehensive
- Frequency: Released on a regular, predictable schedule
- Security Role: Proactively strengthens overall security with the latest defenses
Why Both Are Critical for Business Security
A comprehensive security strategy requires both patching and updating.
- Patching is your first defense. It quickly closes specific security gaps that hackers actively seek to exploit. Failing to apply a security patch is like leaving a known broken lock on your door—it’s an unnecessary risk.
- Updating ensures long-term system integrity. It makes certain your software remains supported and benefits from the latest improvements in security technology. Running outdated, unsupported software is a significant compliance and security liability.
Best Practices for Patch and Update Management
Managing these processes effectively is essential. Consider implementing the following best practices:
- Automate Patch Management: Use an automated system to ensure critical security patches are deployed as soon as they become available.
- Schedule Regular Updates: Plan for minor and major updates on a monthly or quarterly basis to minimize disruption.
- Test Before Deployment: Test all patches and updates in a controlled environment before rolling them out company-wide to avoid operational issues.
- Prioritize Based on Risk: Classify patches and updates by their urgency to ensure the most critical ones are deployed first.
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all patching and updating activities for compliance and auditing purposes.
Simplify Your Security with Run Networks
Managing the patch vs update process can be a complex and time-consuming task, especially for businesses without a dedicated IT department. Outsourcing this responsibility to Run Networks can help your systems remain secure without diverting your team from its core goals.
Run Networks provides the high-level expertise needed to manage your IT infrastructure seamlessly and securely. We handle the technical details behind the patch vs update cycle, so you can focus on running your business with confidence.
Reach out to Run Networks today to learn how we can fortify your business security.
