Here’s a helpful, factual blog post for on the Nintendo Switch , focusing on updates, DLC, and the “patched” status in the context of console modding.

The advantage of NSP over XCI is that it handles update and DLC layering more elegantly. You install the base NSP to the SD card, then layer update NSPs and DLC NSPs on top.

Not all Switches can run CFW. “Patched” refers to a hardware vulnerability being fixed by Nintendo.

Which of those would you like?

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe remains one of the most popular games on the Nintendo Switch, especially with the adding 48 additional tracks. However, if you’re exploring NSP (Nintendo Submission Package) files, update patches, or DLC for use on a modded console, there are some critical things to know — especially about “patched” Switch units.

With a deep breath, he slid his SD card into his PC, moved the massive file over, and popped it back into the Switch. He hovered over the familiar red icon. The "Update Required" prompt didn't appear. Instead, the game launched instantly.