How do security patches enhance network security?

Security patches are crucial for enhancing network security because they specifically address and fix vulnerabilities in software. These vulnerabilities are often exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access, execute malicious code, or disrupt services. When software vendors discover these weaknesses, they release patches that modify the code to eliminate these security risks. By applying these patches promptly, organizations can significantly reduce their exposure to potential attacks and strengthen their overall security posture.

The other options do not directly contribute to network security in the way that patches do. While increasing network speed and expanding bandwidth may improve performance, they do not address security vulnerabilities. Providing user training is important for overall security awareness but does not directly fix software issues. In summary, security patches are essential as they directly mitigate identified vulnerabilities, helping to safeguard network integrity and data confidentiality.