The first two items of the Essential Eight are quite generic but really important – Patching Applications and Patching Operating Systems. This is another way of saying Updates (they've been addressed in a previous course). These actions are relevant not only to your computers and laptops, but also your phones, iPads and any other digital devices.

Patching applications is like getting updates for the apps on your phone or computer, but more specifically focused on fixing problems.

Think of it this way: when software is first released, it's never perfect. Over time, people discover bugs (things that don't work right), security holes (weak spots that hackers could exploit), or just ways to make it work better.

A "patch" is a small update that the software maker releases to fix these specific issues. It's called a patch because it's like patching a hole in your jeans - you're covering up a problem spot without replacing the whole thing.

Common reasons for patches:

Security fixes - closing vulnerabilities before bad actors can exploit them (this is the most urgent type)
Bug fixes - correcting errors that cause crashes or unexpected behavior
Performance improvements - making the software run faster or use less memory

Unpatched software is one of the biggest security risks for both individuals and companies. Many major data breaches happen because someone didn't apply an available security patch. It's like knowing your front door lock is broken but not fixing it.

The process of "patching applications" refers to regularly checking for, testing, and installing these updates across all your software to keep everything secure and running smoothly.

Patching operating systems is essentially the same concept as patching applications, but it's even more critical because the operating system (like Windows, macOS, or Linux) is the foundation that runs your entire computer. Think of your operating system as the building itself, while applications are like the furniture and appliances inside. If the building has structural problems - a cracked foundation, broken locks on doors, or faulty wiring - everything inside is at risk too.

Patching an operating system is especially important because the operating system controls everything on your computer - your files, your network connection, your security settings, how programs run. If there's a security hole in the OS, a hacker could potentially take control of your entire computer, not just one app.

You know those "Windows Update" notifications or when your Mac says it needs to restart to install updates? That's operating system patching in action. Companies release these regularly (Microsoft does "Patch Tuesday" on the second Tuesday of each month). Because the OS is so fundamental, unpatched operating systems are prime targets for cyberattacks. Many major security incidents could have been prevented if systems had been patched promptly.

The core message is – “keep your applications and systems up to date”. If there is an update available for Word, Windows, IOS on your iPhone, or any other item on your device, install it. Take time and keep your device up to date!

What happens once you can no longer update your laptop or iPhone? We’re sorry to say it, but it should no longer be used in a business environment, either for personal or business use. It should no longer be connected to your wifi/network and most certainly should not have any customer or business data on it.

Lesson 1: Updates

You must be logged in to access this course