In software maintenance, vendor created program modifications that correct problems or improve functionality are commonly called what?

Introduction / Context:
This question is about software updates and the terminology used when a software vendor releases small modifications to existing programs. Modern software often has bugs or security issues that are corrected after release. Vendors distribute these corrections to users so that they can improve stability, fix vulnerabilities or add small enhancements. The common term for such modifications is an important part of computer awareness.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The modifications are created by the software vendor.
• They are applied to existing programs.
• The goal is to correct problems or add minor improvements.
• Options include patches, antiviruses, holes, fixes and viruses.

Concept / Approach:
A patch is a small piece of software designed to update or fix a computer program. Patches may address security vulnerabilities, bugs or performance issues. They are often distributed through update services or downloads. Antiviruses are separate programs that detect and remove malware. Holes usually refer to security holes or vulnerabilities themselves, not to corrections. The word fixes can be used informally but the standard technical term in this context is patch. Viruses are malicious software and are not vendor supplied corrections.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify what the question is describing. It mentions program modifications created by the vendor. Step 2: These modifications are intended to improve the existing program, usually by correcting errors or closing security vulnerabilities. Step 3: In software engineering and system administration, such modifications are called patches. Step 4: Option a, patches, is therefore the natural answer and matches standard terminology. Step 5: Option b, antiviruses, refers to security programs that scan for malware and is not a term for vendor issued updates to applications. Step 6: Option c, holes, usually refers to security holes in software, which are the problems that patches are meant to fix, not the fixes themselves. Step 7: Option d, fixes, is an informal word for solutions but is not the specific technical term used for official update files distributed by vendors. Step 8: Option e, viruses, are harmful programs and are the opposite of what the question is describing.

Verification / Alternative check:
Operating systems and applications often notify users about available patches or patch updates. System administrators talk about patching systems and applying security patches to keep machines safe. Official documentation from software vendors uses the word patch for these small updates, while larger updates might be called service packs or new versions. This consistent use of the term confirms that patches is the correct answer.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Antiviruses are separate programs aimed at preventing or removing infections; they are not small modifications to an existing program. Holes describe weaknesses and are what patches are meant to correct. Fixes may sound similar but is too general and not the specific label used for vendor distributed update files. Viruses are harmful code inserted without the user consent, again not what the question is about.

Common Pitfalls:
Students may hesitate between patches and fixes because in everyday language the words sound similar. To avoid confusion, remember that patch is the formal technical term that appears in update dialogs and system management tools. Another pitfall is to confuse antivirus updates with patches; although antiviruses themselves may receive patches, they are distinct from the notion of a patch applied to any arbitrary program.

Final Answer:
Vendor created program modifications that correct problems are commonly called patches.