How do security patches contribute to overall cybersecurity?

Security patches play a crucial role in enhancing overall cybersecurity by specifically addressing vulnerabilities in software. These vulnerabilities are weaknesses that attackers can exploit to gain unauthorized access to systems, steal sensitive information, or launch other types of cyberattacks. When a security patch is released, it contains updates or fixes that close these loopholes, preventing potential exploitation by malicious actors.

This proactive approach to cybersecurity helps maintain the integrity and security of systems and data. As new vulnerabilities are discovered, timely application of security patches ensures that defenses remain robust against emerging threats. Therefore, the primary purpose of security patches is to mitigate risks by sealing off paths that could lead to security breaches, thereby upholding the overall health and security of the digital environment. Other options, such as adding features, encrypting data, or improving user interface design, do not directly address the critical need to remedy security flaws in software.