What does the term "patch" refer to in cybersecurity?

In cybersecurity, the term "patch" specifically refers to a piece of software that is designed to fix vulnerabilities or bugs in another program. Patches are typically released by software developers to address security issues or improve the functionality of their products. When a vulnerability is discovered in software, a patch can be created to close that security gap, thereby reducing the risk of exploitation by attackers.

Patches are essential for maintaining the security and stability of systems, as they often contain fixes for security holes that could be targeted by cyber criminals. Regularly applying patches is a critical aspect of good cybersecurity hygiene, ensuring that software remains up-to-date and resilient against known threats. This proactive maintenance can prevent potential breaches and protect sensitive data.

The other options do not accurately capture the definition of a patch in the context of cybersecurity. Preventive measures against phishing, network monitoring, and encryption algorithms serve different purposes in the security landscape but do not pertain to the specific role of addressing software vulnerabilities as a patch does.