What is Hotfix? — UK Software Development Guide
Direct Answer
A hotfix is an urgent software patch that fixes a critical bug or security vulnerability in production — typically deployed outside the normal release schedule. Hotfixes bypass the standard development cycle (feature branch → PR → staging → production) to deliver a critical fix as quickly as possible. They require fast-tracked testing to ensure the fix doesn't introduce new issues.
Hotfix in the UK
Hotfix processes have direct UK compliance relevance. Cyber Essentials patch management: the 14-day high-risk vulnerability patching requirement means hotfixes are sometimes required within hours rather than days — the CI/CD pipeline and deployment process must support rapid hotfix deployment. FCA operational resilience: firms must demonstrate the ability to restore services following a failure — a well-practiced hotfix process is evidence of this capability. NHS DSP Toolkit: change management documentation must cover emergency patches as well as planned releases. ClickMasters includes documented hotfix procedures in all maintenance retainer client contracts.
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