kernel patches for security

[Scott Howell]

Folks,

I don't know about all distros, but I assume patches can be had even for 
stock kernels. I was wondering if anyone has tried any of the various 
kernel patches I've been seeing that one can get for Debian that deal 
with this or that security matter. I wonder first of all if any of these 
patches are of any value and if there was any issues with them with 
respect to Speakup.
Some seem to offer protections for various hacks, but again not sure 
if there are any advantages in using them or not. 

tnx