The software is a set of logic components created by programmers, for that reason and Like any other man-made product, it may contain errors or ways to improve in some way.
It is what happens, for example, when your computer’s operating system is updated or that of your mobile. But this is just one of the types of computer patches out there.
To learn more about this tool and understand why your programs are updated or need a patch to work, we recommend the following post.
What is a computer patch and what is it for in an operating system?
It’s about a file containing code used to make changes to a program already installed on a device. Through this, it is possible to correct certain errors, replace obsolete sections with new features, add functions or update some aspect.
Unlike an installer, this document does not require the reinstallation of a program. These modifications also are applicable to an operating systemas it is also a software. Often, being such a complex program, the teams of programmers are in constant search and solution of errors. The way to apply them is through patches or also known as “system updates”.
History and origin When were they born and why is patching created in operating systems?
But if it is an update or modification of a software code Why is it called a patch? Well, as you know, computers, as we know them today, were not like that in the beginning. Formerly, in the middle of the 20th century, the first computers worked with perforated cardboard cards.
On certain occasions, as now, the code made up of these holes did not work properly. Because of this, the developers, they sent adhesive tapes to patch (literally) specific perforations and thus solve this problem. The term has continued to be used over time. And in the same way that “bug“ its meaning describes a real action within the first computers.
Types of computer patches How are these modifications classified?
In the same way that there are different types of software and in turn, each one can present different problems, patches are just as varied. And can be classified in various ways.
Here are the most important categories:
According to code
They can be applied to binary files, it updates or modifies the executable of the application. It is a low weight modification. On the other hand, there are those that modify the source code of a program. It is more complex than the previous one and is common in the world of free software.
According to its purpose
We can find those intended for debugging. They are designed to repair the named bugs that may have leaked into the developmental assessment stage. The security patches make sure to maintain or transform the program as less exposed to possible attacks.
In general, these do not modify the operation of the application itself. Another type of purpose when modifying software is to update or add new utilities the same. Similarly, language patches add or translate the dialect with which the program interface is handled. Finally, we find piracy patches. Hundreds of thousands are found all over the web. Its main objective is work together with crack to allow free use of a paid program.
Tips for applying security patches correctly
As we saw before, there are different types of patches. Among them there are those who improve the programs, but also those that are potentially dangerous.
That is why it is important that you take notes of the following tips to apply one:
Use the official patches
Once the distributor performs the necessary tests of the created patch, they release the same in their official websites. In such a way that it is available to users who want to apply them. Taking this into account, we can say that it is extremely important that downloads are made only from these sources. Otherwise your computer may be exposed or with security flaws.
Use original software
Some programs, such as Windows operating system, have automatic updates (Windows update). This means that it is not necessary to search and obtain the patches on our own. In this way are applied without user intervention. However, these utilities often are restricted to original products.
Do not waste time
If there is a patch available for the software you use, install it as soon as possible. Since it could be a modification that protect equipment from intruders unwanted. Or the program is likely to stop working properly without the patch. So we could lose valuable information.