[RESOLVED] patch vs fix?

What is a patch and how does it differ from a fix?

As a programmer, if there is a bug in my code, I fix it. I seem to remember from a long time ago working with patches, but I can't remember exactly what the difference is. I think it was that the bug remained, but something else went in that "patched" it. Does this make sense?

I am asking because we are having issues right now with a consultant whose code is not working and my boss wants to know if he is fixing it or patching it. He said this person has "patched" things for us in the the past.

A patch contains the updated files of which the bugs in them have been fixed/corrected.

think of it like this.... you get a hole in your bicycle.... if you replace the tire tube... that's a "fix" ... if you slap a patch onto it, that's a "patch."

Patching an app is similar... your replace bits of the application... not the whole thing (think of the updates MS does... those are patches).... technically speaking patching is fixing... your're fixing something that was broken... it's the how you do it that makes it a patch or not.

-tg

Okay, so if there's a bug in List_Charges.aspx a patch would be a new List_Charges.aspx file. A fix would be the entire folder in which List_Charges resides? They really are the same thing and it's not like a patch is less trustworthy?

I am not sure if patch and fix can be distinguished. I would say a "patch" contains a "number of fix(es)". You fix your code and deploy/distribute a patch. You do not deploy your fix(es).
I would equate an update and patch at the same level.
These are all jargons, end result is fix the issue and deploy the corrected application. How you do it (full deployment, page replacement etc. etc.) is matter of practice and policy.

Thanks to all three of you. It is much clearer now.