Methods, systems, and devices for a differential write operation are described. The operations described herein may be used to alter a portion of a program file from a first state to a second state. For example, a file (e.g., a patch file) that is associated with a signature may be received at a memory device. Based on an authentication process, the file may be used to alter the program file to the second state. In some examples, the program file may be altered to the second state using a buffer of the memory device. A host system may transmit a file that includes the difference between the first state and the second state. A signature may be associated with the file and may be used to authenticate the file.