What is the purpose of testing patches in a non-production environment?

Testing patches in a non-production environment is primarily intended to implement changes without affecting production systems. This approach allows organizations to safely evaluate and verify the stability, compatibility, and functionality of the patches before they are deployed in a live environment. By running tests away from the production system, businesses can identify potential issues and resolve them proactively, reducing the risk of disruptions that could impact users and critical operations.

Engaging in this practice helps ensure the integrity and reliability of production systems, as any adverse effects from the patch can be addressed in a controlled setting. This method also provides the opportunity to validate that the patches work as intended in a simulated environment similar to production, allowing for thorough testing of new features or fixes in a lower-risk scenario.