What does "patching" refer to in cybersecurity?

Patching in cybersecurity refers specifically to the process of updating software to address security vulnerabilities, bugs, or other issues. This updating can include applying fixes, enhancements, or modifications to existing software applications or operating systems. The purpose of patching is to improve security by closing gaps that could be exploited by attackers, thereby reducing the risk of data breaches and other cyber threats.

When vulnerabilities are discovered in software, vendors typically release patches that can be applied to fix those issues. Keeping software up to date by regularly applying patches is a crucial part of cybersecurity best practices, as it helps to protect systems from known vulnerabilities that could be targeted by cybercriminals. This process is distinct from other activities such as archiving data, installing new hardware, or backing up databases, which do not directly address the security and functional integrity of software systems.