What is a patch?

[Yona F. Maro]

A patch can be an upgrade (adding increased features), a bug fix, a new hardware driver or update to address new issues such as security or stability problems.

While most patches are free to download, ultimately the developer will determine which versions of their software will be updated for free (older releases of a program usually get fewer updates). In some cases, only registered users may get certain upgrades, and at other times the only way to upgrade is to purchase the newer version at a discounted upgrade price (and requiring a reinstallation of the program). Typically, a patch can be installed over the top of an existing program, but again this will depend on the supplier and the nature of the patch. Unless otherwise stated, patches and updates are for PCs using English language settings.

The newest patches to download are listed on the developer website If you are new , the easiest way to keep up-to-date is to bookmark that page and return on a regular basis. It is also important that you read the Disclaimer & Copyright section of That website

Note: not all software companies release patches for download, so it may be worthwhile contacting the vendor or registering your product if you can't find what you need.

 

[Richard]

Thanx Mkuu kwa maarifa hayo.

But for further materials I would consider another definition of a patch.

A patch (sometimes called a "fix") is a quick-repair job for a piece of programming.

A patch is the immediate solution that is provided to users; it can sometimes be downloaded from the software maker's Web site. The patch is not necessarily the best solution for the problem and the product developers often find a better solution to provide when they package the product for its next release.

A patch is usually developed and distributed as a replacement for or an insertion in compiled code (that is, in a binary file or object module). In larger operating systems, a special program is provided to manage and keep track of the installation of patches.

Example of downloaded patches is microsoft with it feature of automatic downloads.

Thanx again.