Distributed distribution of patches and other updates is disclosed. A
request for an update is received. In some embodiments it is determined
whether the source of the request will serve as a redistribution point.
If the source will serve as a redistribution point, a redistribution
identifier associated with the source is stored. In some embodiments it
is determined whether the update will be provided to the source of the
request directly, e.g., from a (more) primary source of the update, such
as a source that received the request, or indirectly, e.g., from a
secondary source such as a host to which a (more) primary source provided
the update previously. The request is serviced either directly or
indirectly, in accordance with the determination.