sfdk-apply

Apply all patches

$ sfdk apply

$ sfdk apply -R

sfdk-apply [-d <directory>] [-a] [-n]

-d <directory>
    Specifies the directory containing the kernel source code. If not provided, it defaults to the current directory.

-a
    Applies all available SFDK patches.

-n
    Dry-run mode; only simulates the patch application without making any changes to the kernel source code.

The sfdk-apply command is a utility, primarily used in Debian-based Linux systems, designed to facilitate the application of security patches to the kernel source code.
It automates the process of identifying, downloading, and applying patches provided by the Security Focus Debian Kernel (SFDK) team.
This helps in hardening the kernel against known vulnerabilities. The command simplifies the manual patch application process, which can be tedious and error-prone, especially for users unfamiliar with kernel patching.
While the SFDK project may not be actively maintained currently, the command historically served a crucial role in providing timely security fixes for Debian kernels. Users should verify the relevance and applicability of older patches before applying them in modern systems.

The SFDK project might be inactive. Verify patch relevance before applying them. Using outdated patches can destabilize your system or introduce vulnerabilities. Always back up your kernel source before applying any patches.

To apply all available patches in the current directory (dry run): sfdk-apply -a -n
To apply all available patches in a specific directory: sfdk-apply -d /usr/src/linux -a

The sfdk-apply command was developed to streamline the process of applying security patches released by the Security Focus Debian Kernel team to Debian kernels. The SFDK team provided security patches, and this command automated the application, improving system security.
Its usage peaked during periods when kernel vulnerabilities were prevalent, and has decreased as kernel security practices have improved and more automated update mechanisms have been implemented.

patch(1)