Oracle Patches - Types

What is patches ?
  • Patch is a piece of software or code designed to fix the problems of the existing software.
  • Oracle regularly makes patches available to upgrade features, enhance security, or fix problems with supported software.
  • The major types of patches are: Interim patches - contain a single bug fix or a collection of bug fixes provided as required.
  • In certain cases the patches increases or enhances the function of the software as well.

    • Types Of Patching :
    1. Interim Patch
    2. Diagnostic
    3. Critical patch update
    4. Patch Set Updates
    5. Security Patch Update
    6. Bundle
    1. Interim Patch :
    Interim patches are released as needed to address specific issues. They are not part of the regular CPU or PSU schedule and are provided to customers who encounter urgent problems that require immediate attention.

    2. Diagnostic :
    A diagnostic patch is designed to help diagnose or verify a fix or collection of bug fixes.You may also know a diagnostic patch as: test patch, Fix Verification Binary (FVB) or e-fix. An interim patch provides a single bug fix, a collection of bug fixes, or a customer-specific security fix.

    3. Critical Patch Update (CPU) :
    Oracle releases Critical Patch Updates (CPUs) on a quarterly basis. CPUs address security vulnerabilities across various Oracle products, including databases, middleware, and applications. These updates are comprehensive and may include fixes for a wide range of issues, including security vulnerabilities, bugs, and performance improvements.

    4. Patch Set Updates (PSU) :
    Patch Set Updates are released more frequently than CPUs, typically on a quarterly basis.They include fixes for a broader range of issues, not just security vulnerabilities. This can include bug fixes and improvements in addition to security-related updates. PSUs are cumulative, meaning they include all the fixes from the previous PSU release.

    5. Security patch update :
    Oracle issues Security Alerts for critical security issues that need immediate attention. These alerts provide information about the vulnerability and may include workarounds until a patch can be applied.

    6. Bundle :
    Each bundle patch includes the libraries and files that have been rebuilt to implement one or more fixes. All of the fixes in the bundle patch have been tested and are certified to work with one another.


    (Oracle Patches - Applying Interim patch)