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 or Oracle Metalink 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.
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.