Hack, crack, patch - these are the differences

Hack, crack, patch - you encounter these terms when dealing with games and other software. We will explain the differences to you.

The hack

The hack of firmware and software extends their range of functions. However, this extension is mostly illegal.

• "Hack" is English and means "bat". "To hack" can be translated as "hack" or more precisely as "hack on it".
• Algorithms were originally referred to as a hack, which, although they solve a problem, are programmed improperly or not properly and are therefore not expandable or transferable.
• Nowadays, a hack mostly refers to the access to areas and the use of functions of software that the manufacturer wanted to withhold from the user.
• A hack, for example, can recognize and play a DVD player formats that the manufacturer has prevented by software. A manufacturer often builds only one device and sells it at different prices: the affordable one with a smaller range of functions.
• In computer games, hacks can allow access to level editors or unlock features. A famous hack is the "Need for Speed" world hack.
• From a legal point of view, hacks are usually illegal. With hardware or software you usually do not acquire the right to change it.

The crack

A crack removes copy protection or other restrictions on the use of programs.

• The term "crack" is not derived from the drug, but from the English word "crack", which is a "crack" or "crack". "To crack" means "crack".
• A crack bypasses a program's copy protection device
• Creating a crack means disclosing part of the software structure by disassembling or using hex editors, i.e. practically cracking it. The protection is removed by changing the entries in the program section that are responsible for protection.
• Some groups that have set themselves the task of creating cracks are really famous. Software manufacturers are fighting a battle with such warez groups.
• Cracker groups create cracks especially for professional and widespread software such as Windows, Photoshop and Cubase.
• Since the purchase of software usually does not entitle you to change the program (in particular to bypass copy protection devices), cracks are practically illegal.

The patch

The patches, on the other hand, are completely legal and recommendable.

• "Patch" comes from the English and means "plaster". "To patch" means something like "mending".
• Patches are mostly released by software manufacturers to fix bugs in the original version of the program
• A patch can be used to correct errors without having to set up the entire program again. One also speaks of "bug fixes".
• Compilations of patches of complex software are also known as "service packs" and are known, for example, from the Windows XP service packs.
• It rarely happens that a patch does not fix a bug, but only creates it as in the famous nude patch for "The Sims 3". Strictly speaking, this is a "mod", a modification of the game.
• As long as patches are not created by yourself or offered by third-party manufacturers, they are absolutely legal.

Summary: Hack, Crack, Patch - the differences

In summary, hacks and cracks are mostly illegal changes to software of any kind - whether firmwares, games, operating systems or image and sound processing programs. Hacks allow access to new areas and the use of new functions. Cracks abolish copy protection mechanisms and pretend the software that they are authorized to use them. Patches are offered by the manufacturer and repair faulty program parts.

You can find more terminology such as the difference between plug-ins and add-ons in our practical tips.