What is Patch Management?

by Paul Davies

Patch Management

Patch Management is the process of identifying, acquiring, testing, and applying software updates or "patches" to fix security vulnerabilities, improve functionality, or resolve bugs.

Patches are typically issued by software vendors in response to newly discovered vulnerabilities or flaws in their products. Effective patch management is critical for reducing an organisation’s attack surface and preventing attackers from exploiting known vulnerabilities.

The patch management process includes:

  1. Identifying Systems and Software: Keeping an inventory of all hardware, software, and their associated versions.
  2. Vulnerability Scanning: Regularly scanning systems for vulnerabilities that need patching.
  3. Testing Patches: Testing patches in a controlled environment before deploying them to ensure they don’t disrupt existing services.
  4. Deployment: Rolling out patches to all applicable systems, prioritising critical updates for high-risk vulnerabilities.
  5. Monitoring and Reporting: Ensuring that patches have been successfully applied and monitoring systems for any issues that may arise after deployment. Failing to implement patches in a timely manner can leave systems exposed to exploits and attacks.