What does the term 'patch management' refer to?

The term 'patch management' refers to the process of managing updates for software applications and technologies. This involves the identification, acquisition, deployment, and verification of patches—essentially updates that are intended to improve the software by fixing vulnerabilities, enhancing features, or correcting bugs. Effective patch management is crucial for maintaining the security and functionality of systems, as it reduces the risk of exploitation by attackers who may target outdated software with known vulnerabilities.

In the context of cybersecurity, timely application of patches can protect against potential threats and breaches. This management process includes assessing what needs to be updated, testing patches in a controlled environment, and then rolling them out across the organization to ensure that all systems are secure and performing optimally.