# Why One Patent May Not Be Enough: Patent Portfolio Strategy Developing new technology often prompts a patent application. But does a single patent provide the protection the business needs? Source: https://www.iplexlaw.co.kr/en/blog/1479722 HOME / NEWS & INSIGHTS NEWS & INSIGHTS Why One Patent May Not Be Enough: Patent Portfolio Strategy Developing new technology often prompts a patent application. But does a single patent provide the protection the business needs? Patents 2026.05.28 published IPLEX 3 min read Developing new technology often prompts a patent application. But does a single patent provide the protection the business needs? In practice, however, protecting the technology with a single patent is very limited. Today, with the limitations of a single patent, we’ll explain why you need a patent portfolio strategy. The structural limits of a single patent Patents are not an abstract right to protect the entire technology. The protection of the patent right is limited to the contents of the patent claim. Competitors may attempt to design around a patent in several ways: Partial bypass: one of the core configurations is slightly changed or replaced by another component. Dispersion of functions: Divide one function into two configurations and avoid the configuration of the patent claim. Omitting a claimed feature that is unnecessary for the competing product's performance This approach is called design around. After all, one patent alone has a limit to blocking all of your competitors’ transformative products. A single patent issue. In a company that only has a single patent, the following situations often occur: Similar Products Released, but Difficult to Prove Infringement A patent exists, but provides limited market protection Competitors have a broader patent. This is due to the fact that the patent is only accessible as a single right. What is a patent portfolio? A patent portfolio is a strategy for systematically designing multiple patents around one technology. For example, if you have one product, it expands with the following: Core technology patents (core patents) Applied Technology Patent (Application Patent) Modification structure patent (Variation Patent) How to use patent (Method Patent) In addition to this, the following strategies are used. Patent claim Multi-layer structure design (wide right + narrow right parallel) Staggered filings as the technology develops Application based on competitor patent analysis This structure reduces the avoidance path that competitors can choose. Key Effects of Portfolio Strategy A powerful "patent barrier" If multiple patents are interlocked, the competitor must analyze and avoid a large number of patents to copy the technology. This increases the cost and time of R&D of competitors exponentially, effectively becoming a barrier to market entry. 2 Enhanced Conflict Response (Risk Dispersion) A single patent may be invalidated in one proceeding. A portfolio can preserve other enforceable rights if some patents are invalidated, potentially improving the position in cross-licensing or settlement negotiations. 3. Supporting company valuation and investment Investors see the structure and strategic completion of a patent rather than the number of patents. A systematic portfolio provides strong evidence that "our technology is beyond our competitors" and increases corporate value. When should I prepare a portfolio? Many companies think about portfolios after technology has grown, but it’s really important to design strategically from the early stages. A portfolio is particularly useful in the following situations: Core Technology Based Business Many competitors. Plans to expand internationally Startups Ready to Attract Investments Patents are assets that need to be strategically designed, not “one right.” With a single patent, there are limits to both technical protection, competitive response, and business expansion. So if you want to protect your technology properly, you need to consider a patent portfolio strategy from the start. Please check the limitations of your current patent or contact us if you need an additional application strategy. Read the Korean source This article reflects the information available when it was published. Contact us to discuss your circumstances. Discuss this topic ↗ All articles Related service: Patents & utility models ↗ ON THIS PAGE The structural limits of a single patent A single patent issue. What is a patent portfolio? Key Effects of Portfolio Strategy When should I prepare a portfolio? 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