Patch Management Definition

Patch management is the process that helps acquire, test and install multiple patches (code changes) on existing applications and software tools on a computer, enabling systems to stay updated on existing patches and determining which patches are the appropriate ones. Managing patches thus becomes easy and simple.

Patch Management is mostly done by software companies as part of their internal efforts to fix problems with the different versions of software programs and also to help analyze existing software programs and detect any potential lack of security features or other upgrades.

Software patches help fix those problems that exist and are noticed only after the software's initial release. Patches mostly concern security while there are some patches that concern the specific functionality of programs as well.

What is Automated Patch Management?

Patch management process features to detect missing patches, install the patches or hotfixes that are released from time to time, and provide instant updates on the latest patch deployment status.

Budget pressures continue to be high on IT organizations, and so automating day to day routine tasks is critical. Patch management software can be automated to enable all the computers to remain up-to-date with the recent patch releases from the application software vendors.

It is critical to take necessary steps to enhance the security posture of enterprises – large and small. Therefore, consistent patching of operating systems and applications with an automated patch management solution is important to mitigate and prevent security risks.

How does an Automated Patch Management Solution Work?

The automated patch management is used to automate the various stages of patching process

Scan the applications of devices for missing patches

Automate the downloading of missing patches that are released by the application vendors.

Automated Patch Deployment ensures to automatically deploy patches based on the deployment policies, without any manual interference.

Once the patches are deployed, reports on the status of the automated patch management tasks are updated.

With automated Patch Management solution, each enterprise is equipped to update its endpoints with latest patches irrespective of what OS they run and where they are located.

What is the Purpose of Patching?

Patching is a process to repair a vulnerability or a flaw that is identified after the release of an application or a software. Newly released patches can fix a bug or a security flaw, can help to enhance applications with new features, fix security vulnerability.

Unpatched software can make the device a vulnerable target of exploits. Patching a software as and when the patch is released is critical to deny malware access.

Patch Management Best Practices:

Some of the best practices of patch management that will allow the organizations to enhance cybersecurity are