What is Patch Management?
Patch management is the systematic process of identifying, testing, and deploying software updates across your organization. This includes operating system updates (Windows, macOS), security patches, bug fixes, and updates to third-party applications like browsers, PDF readers, and productivity software.
Unpatched software contains known vulnerabilities that attackers actively exploit. Effective patch management closes these security gaps before they can be used against you.
The Risk of Unpatched Systems
Software vulnerabilities are constantly discovered and published:
- Microsoft releases patches monthly (“Patch Tuesday”)
- Adobe, Google, Apple release updates frequently
- Zero-day exploits target newly discovered vulnerabilities
When a vulnerability is disclosed, attackers immediately begin exploiting it. The window between disclosure and widespread attack is often just days. Organizations that delay patching are prime targets.
Real-World Consequences
- WannaCry (2017) - Exploited a Windows vulnerability patched two months earlier
- Equifax breach (2017) - Unpatched Apache Struts vulnerability
- SolarWinds (2020) - Highlighted importance of supply chain updates
How It Works
Inventory
Discover all software installed across your environment.
Assess
Identify missing patches and prioritize by risk level.
Test
Validate updates in test environment before production deployment.
Deploy
Roll out patches during scheduled maintenance windows.
Verify
Confirm successful installation and address any failures.
Report
Compliance dashboards and reports for visibility and audits.
What We Patch
Operating Systems
- Windows 10 and 11
- Windows Server editions
- macOS (Monterey, Ventura, Sonoma)
- Linux distributions
Microsoft Applications
- Microsoft 365 / Office
- Microsoft Edge
- Visual Studio
- .NET Framework
Third-Party Applications
- Browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Edge
- Productivity: Adobe Reader, Acrobat, Creative Cloud
- Communication: Zoom, Teams, Slack
- Development: Java, Python, Node.js
- Utilities: 7-Zip, WinRAR, Notepad++
- And 200+ more applications
Firmware and Drivers
- BIOS/UEFI updates
- Critical driver updates
- Hardware manufacturer patches
Our Patching Approach
Risk-Based Prioritization
Not all patches are equal:
- Critical security patches - Deployed within 48 hours
- High-severity updates - Deployed within 7 days
- Standard updates - Monthly maintenance window
- Optional/feature updates - As needed
Testing Before Deployment
Patches are tested before production:
- Vendor release and documentation review
- Industry reports of issues monitored
- Test deployment to pilot group
- Validation period before wide deployment
Minimal User Disruption
- Patches applied during defined maintenance windows
- Advance notice for restart-required updates
- Background installation where possible
- No surprise restarts during business hours
Key Benefits
Close Vulnerabilities
Unpatched software is the #1 attack vector. Regular patching eliminates known risks.
Automated Process
Patches deployed on schedule without manual intervention.
Tested Updates
Updates tested before deployment to prevent compatibility issues.
Flexible Scheduling
Patches applied during maintenance windows to minimize disruption.
Full Reporting
Know patch status across all devices with detailed compliance reports.
Third-Party Apps
Not just Windows—we patch Chrome, Adobe, Java, Zoom, and 200+ applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't we just let Windows Update handle patching?
Windows Update only handles Microsoft products and often delays critical patches. It doesn't patch Chrome, Adobe, Zoom, or other commonly exploited applications. It also doesn't provide centralized reporting or control over when updates install—leading to unexpected restarts and inconsistent compliance.
How do you handle patches that cause problems?
We test patches before wide deployment and monitor industry reports for problematic updates. When issues occur, we can roll back patches or exclude specific updates. Our staging approach means problems are caught before affecting your entire environment.
When do patches get installed?
We schedule patches during maintenance windows you define—typically outside business hours. Critical security patches may be expedited with advance notice. Users aren't interrupted with unexpected restarts during work hours.
What about patches that require restarts?
Restart-required patches are scheduled during maintenance windows. Users get advance notification. For servers and critical systems, we coordinate restarts carefully to minimize impact.
Do you patch macOS?
Yes, we manage macOS system updates and application patches. The same principles apply: scheduled deployment, testing, and reporting.
How do I know what's patched?
You receive regular compliance reports showing patch status across all devices. Dashboards provide real-time visibility. Audit reports document patching history for compliance purposes.