A security patch is an essential part of securing your company in a volatile cybersecurity environment. While hackers and malicious actors seek vulnerabilities, they don’t want to work too hard to steal your data, and unfortunately, they don’t have to if they search for unprotected systems. Many software and Operating System (OS) updates contain security patches within them, but there are also frequent, smaller updates that mitigate security risks. One is known as a security patch.
It’s exactly how it sounds — a patch, a fix to a smaller security concern that doesn’t need an entire software or OS update. Software and OS manufacturers constantly work to improve the features and security of a product throughout its lifetime, meaning you will periodically receive patches and updates from the manufacturer. The patches and updates are vital to the health and continued protection of your systems.
If your organization does not protect your network with patches, you leave it vulnerable to cyberattacks. Reducing exposure to cyberattacks is paramount to business success. Neglecting to install security patches allows hackers the perfect opportunity to take advantage of your system. As cyber criminals continue to invent ways to infiltrate our systems, patching is an effective tool to maintain a company’s security posture.
According to Intel: “Software that is well-managed with up-to-date patches works better and can help boost employee productivity.”
Increased productivity and efficiency are great, but there are even more benefits!
Hackers and malware authors are opportunists looking for easy actions. When a bad actor discovers a vulnerability in software or systems, it can be exploited. A patch fixes the vulnerability before it can be further exploited.
Consistent patch management prevents hackers and the like from infiltrating your systems. Patches are designed to remediate a found vulnerability, and applying the patch prevents cyberattacks as threats seek out known weaknesses. Every company, big or small, is aware of the increasing danger of cyberattacks, so applying security patches benefits your organization.
Ensuring updates and patches are consistently installed benefits your business by optimizing your systems. Implementing an update and patch management system will help your hardware and software perform optimally.
Security patches and updates will often include bug fixes as well as vulnerability repairs. These updates maintain the functionality of your systems, preventing hiccups in your workflow. This ensures that streamlined operations continue. One bug can throw a wrench into the whole system and your workday, which is something every organization would like to avoid.
Security patches are most often used to repair a vulnerability or bug in software or operating systems.
According to Forbes: “When new threats emerge or when new vulnerabilities are discovered, most OS manufacturers release patches and updates designed to combat them. So, until and unless the patch is applied to your device, it remains susceptible.”
Manufacturers want to maintain the high quality and usability of their software to ensure continued use and sales of their products. Therefore, they will act quickly when a weak point is discovered.
Working with a Managed Services Provider (MSP), like PC Corp, gives you access to IT support that makes patch deployment smooth and effective. A patch management system remediates any identified risks and maintains your necessary security posture. The process involves identifying, installing, and verifying patches for the latest version of select products and systems. We can provide a patch management system that includes the Microsoft portfolio and select third-party systems, including but not limited to Acrobat Reader, Google Chrome, and Zoom.
At PC Corp, we want to ensure our clients’ security and network architecture are maintained and operating seamlessly. Our Managed Services Programs include services like patch management, backups, and preventative maintenance, as well as client support services and Advanced Security. If you have any questions about our services or security patch management, we are here to help. Connect with us today!