What does 'patch management' refer to?

'Patch management' pertains to the systematic approach of managing software updates, particularly those aimed at fixing vulnerabilities and enhancing security. This involves evaluating, acquiring, installing, and verifying patches, which are essential for software applications and systems. When vulnerabilities are discovered in software, vendors often release patches as a way to remediate these issues and protect systems from potential exploitation. Effective patch management helps maintain the integrity of systems, reduces risks and enhances overall cybersecurity posture.

In contrast, updating hardware components focuses on physical elements of a computer system rather than software. Designing backup solutions deals with creating strategies for data recovery and securing important information, while configuring network settings involves setting up various elements of a network infrastructure, rather than addressing software vulnerabilities through updates. These distinctions help clarify why 'patch management' specifically relates to software applications and their updates.