Automated Patch Management: Everything You Need to Know
What is Automated Patch Management?
Automated patch management uses software to automate the whole patch management process, enabling IT teams to scan and distribute required patches to devices without the need for manual intervention.
How does Automated Patch Management work?
The process involves scanning device systems for missing patches, prioritizing updates based on severity, testing the patches, and then automatically deploy them.
While no two automated patching systems operate exactly alike, they typically enable users to establish, adjust, and uphold a scheduled patching system that aligns with their organization’s patch management policies.
Why is automated patching important?
Automated patching is important due to its much quicker and more effective process compared to manual patching. Manually patching vulnerabilities is a time-consuming and laborious task that can take hours to finish.
Patching isn’t one of those tasks we can put off until it’s convenient. Cyberthreats continue to pose a major risk to organizations with an online presence, and any unaddressed vulnerability is an opportunity for cybercriminals.
What is the difference between manual patching and automatic patching?
Automatic patching automatically detects, tests, and deploys missing patches in the network in real-time. This prevents malware and cyber threats from taking advantage of systems due to unpatched systems and software.
Manual patching, on the other hand, involves carrying out all patch management steps manually. It also includes deploying patches manually to the multitude of systems in the network, which can create opportunities for network vulnerabilities.
What to Look for in an Automated Patch Manager
INFORMATION GATHERING
Scan devices to collect system information and identify missing OS and application patches.
Gathering information is one of the most important steps of patch management, yet it is often overlooked, particularly in manual patch management procedures. Without precise and up-to-date information, it is impossible to determine which device or system needs to be updated.
PATCH DOWNLOADS
Download patches from vendors automatically.
Generally speaking, downloading patches is a simple task. However, keeping up with patch releases manually can become difficult when you manage products from dozens of vendors. You’ll often fall behind and miss important updates, and leaving a vulnerability unpatched could result in your network being exposed to cyber risks.
PACKAGE CREATION
Prebuilt deployment packages.
Packages include all the necessary steps, files, and information needed for the successful distribution of an application or patch. Package requirements differ significantly. Some only require an install file, while others need wide-ranging commands, undocumented switches, and multiple success codes.
PACKAGE DISTRIBUTION
Ensure packages are distributed across networks with minimal downtime.
Distributing packages is the main function of automated patch management, providing full control over the distribution process. Administrators define policies, create schedules, and designate target collections. After being set up, distribution systems make sure that endpoints are kept up to date the with new patches as they are released.
AUTOMATED REPORTING
Provide quick access to essential data.
Automated reporting completes the patch management process. These reports assist users in promptly confirming deployment results and recognizing patched and unpatched endpoints. Auto-generating and distributing reports ensures that users have the essential information to maintain their devices updated and secure their networks.
Questions to Ask when Looking at Different Automated Solutions:
- Is the product truly automated?
- Does it offer thorough and current information about your endpoints?
- Does it automatically download and install operating system and third-party patches?
- Are the packages immediately ready for deployment?
- Does the product automatically distribute packages based on a user-defined policy with ease?
- Is it capable of automatically generating reports to keep you updated on your patching requirements?
- Does it enhance your cybersecurity position and aid in protecting your users, data, and digital assets?
Benefits of Automated Patching
SECURITY ENHANCEMENT
Regularly applying patches helps to address security flaws in software and operating systems. Promptly addressing known vulnerabilities can reduce the risk of cyber attacks, data breaches and unauthorized access to sensitive information.
INDUSTRY COMPLIANCE
Many industries require organizations to maintain up-to-date software to safeguard against known vulnerabilities. Patch management aids organizations in meeting these requirements, reducing the risk of penalties and legal consequences.
SYSTEM STABILITY
Applying patches can enhance the stability and performance of the system by fixing software bugs and glitches. As a result, there will be fewer system crashes, improved uptime, and enhanced user experience.
PRODUCTIVITY AND EFFICIENCY
Reducing the time and energy spent on managing security risks enables IT teams to focus on other critical tasks and projects, leading to increased productivity and efficiency.
COST SAVING
Proactive patch management decreases the chances of costly attacks and data breaches. Investing in patch management can help organizations avoid potential financial losses caused by damages and recovery costs in the future.
You must be logged in to post a comment.