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Hotfixes are small code snippets that fix bugs or vulnerabilities in software, particularly Microsoft operating systems. They can be downloaded automatically or manually, and service packs bundle hotfixes together. Keeping up with patches is crucial for computer security, and creating an updated installation disk can save time in case of a hard drive failure. Other programs should also be updated regularly.
Hotfixes are snippets of code in the form of small files that fix bugs or problems in software, especially in Microsoft operating systems (OS). When vulnerabilities are discovered, Microsoft releases hot fixes or patches to keep your software as secure as possible. Microsoft also uses the term Quick Fix Engineering (QFE) to refer to hotfixes.
Hotfixes are downloaded and installed automatically when end users have enabled the Windows “automatic update” feature. Barring this, an occasional trip to the Microsoft website to manually check for hotfixes is warranted. Patches could be rated to let the end user know if the bug is critical or if the vulnerability poses only a low-level threat. Hotfixes are also explained so that the end user knows what bug or vulnerability they address. Not all users require all patches, and files may be downloaded and installed at the user’s discretion when updates are done manually.
A service pack (SP) is a collection of hotfixes bundled together. Windows XP has been updated with two service packs, making the latest shipped version “XP SP2,” although an SP3 may be released in 2008. Each subsequent service pack should incorporate all previous hotfixes so that if you update an original release of XP, for example only the latest Service Pack should be required.
Keeping up with patches as they are released saves the end user time and provides maximum security. However, in the event of a failed hard drive, a new installation may be required. When an operating system is freshly installed from the original CD, all hotfixes issued after its production must be downloaded and (re)installed. This can take a long time.
One way to alleviate this problem is to create an updated installation disk by placing all updated hotfixes along with the original installation files on a new CD. This way, patches and service packs are incorporated into the new installation process. Over time you will need to add additional hotfixes to the CD or install them later, but this method significantly reduces the time and effort faced with reinstallation.
Keeping up with hotfixes is critical to maintaining the integrity and security of your computer system. Web browsers, firewalls, antivirus and antispyware programs should also be updated. If you prefer to keep the automatic update features of these programs disabled, it might be a good idea to bookmark the manufacturer’s websites and set up a weekly scheduler as a reminder to manually check the sites for patches or updates.
