Software patches
Software patches are small pieces of code designed to update or fix problems with a application package. This includes fixing bugs, replacing graphics and improving usability or performance. Though meant to fix problems, poorly designed upgrades can introduce problems.
Programmers publish and apply the software in various forms. Because proprietary software authors withhold their source code, their upgrades are distributed as binary executables instead of source. This type of upgrade modifies or replaces the program the user actually runs.
Upgrades and fixes can also circulate in the form of source code modifications. These types of patches commonly come out of open source projects. In these cases, developers expect users to compile the new or changed files themselves.
Bulky upgrades or those that significantly change a program may circulate as service packs or as software updates. Microsoft Windows NT and its successors (including Windows 2000, Windows XP, and later versions) use the service pack terminology. Definition: Software patches.
While most of the patch downloads are free to download, ultimately the developer will determine which versions of their software will be updated for free. The upgrades on this site have been categorised according to the type of software to which they will be applied.