What are security updates?

Security updates refer to patches or modifications made to software that enhance its security features. These updates are crucial because they address vulnerabilities and exploits that could be taken advantage of by cybercriminals. By implementing security updates, organizations can protect sensitive data, ensure the integrity of their applications, and maintain overall system reliability. Regularly applying these updates is a key component of cybersecurity practices, as they help safeguard systems from emerging threats.

The other options describe different aspects of technology or software management, but they do not relate specifically to security improvements. New software installations focus on performance improvements rather than security, hardware upgrades deal with physical components rather than software vulnerabilities, and reductions in licensing fees pertain to cost rather than security. Thus, the most accurate definition of security updates is indeed patches or modifications aimed at enhancing software security.