This FAQ includes the following questions:
To obtain a My Oracle Support account, go to the Oracle Support site, http://www.oracle.com/support/index.html, and click My Oracle Support Login.On the My Oracle Support page, follow the instructions to register as a new user.
A bug is a defect in the existing code or functionality not performing as documented. CR is the BEA-equivalent term for bug.
Use the Smart Update tool to view, download, and apply available patches. If a patch is not available from Smart Update to fix your problem, open a case with My Oracle Support.
Go to the Critical Patch Updates and Security Alerts page, http://www.oracle.com/technology/deploy/security/alerts.htm to see an updated list of advisories and the recommended remedies or patches. You may also register at http://www.oracle.com/technology/deploy/security/securityemail.html to receive notification of security advisories.
Private patch is one that Oracle Support makes available to you as part of a custom maintenance solution, and is not generally available from the My Oracle Support Repository to all customers.
Oracle Support sends the patch ID and passcode to you through e-mail.
Maintenance packs are available individually for download to users with a valid maintenance contract. You can obtain a maintenance pack in either of the following ways:
Use the Maintenance Pack Update component of Smart Update to view and download a maintenance pack when it is available for the product. This is the recommended method.
Log in to the My Oracle Support Web site, http://www.oracle.com/support/index.html, and choose Patches & Updates from the menu bar. Select the Oracle product and the version and maintenance pack you want. See "Downloading an Upgrade Installer From My Oracle Support" in Oracle WebLogic Server Installation Guide for detailed instructions.
You do need a support contract to obtain a My Oracle Support account. You can download patches and updates only if you have a My Oracle Support account.