With a manual approach, it is important to keep constant track of what new updates are available and essential. Security-related patches have a particularly high priority. For example, if there is documented proof of a security vulnerability, users should act immediately and install the patch for it.
If not, they run the risk of cyber attackers exploiting the known vulnerability. The fact that inadequately patched applications or systems are frequently used as a gateway for hackers has been demonstrated in the past, for example, by WannaCry ransomware, which exploited long-existing security vulnerabilities.
The security problems associated with the Microsoft Exchange mail server solution, which became known to the general public in March , also made it clear that prompt and regular patching is absolutely essential. This applies in particular to companies that process sensitive and thus potentially valuable data. Many companies are even required to patch due to compliance requirements. For example, standards such as ISO and ISO based on IT-Grundschutz baseline protection stipulate the prompt installation of security-related patches and updates in order to increase the level of information security.
Good planning and clear processes when it comes to patching are the be-all and end-all for minimizing many cyber risks, especially when it comes to companies. IT departments should follow a clearly defined patch management process and keep track of the different measures required when patching.
It starts with an inventory to get an overview of the number and type of all endpoints laptops, PCs, servers, and other devices and the software installed on them. The second step is to continuously monitor information about current security vulnerabilities and threats. The update and patch cycles of the software used should also be known.
In the subsequent evaluation and planning phase, a risk analysis and prioritization must be carried out to determine which systems are currently most at risk and therefore need to be patched first. Because patching during live operation is always associated with risks such as malfunctions and system failures, it is advisable to conduct preliminary tests in a pilot environment.
It is also possible to create a certain degree of protection with the help of rollback plans and recovery options in the event of malfunctions or compatibility problems. Once the rollout has been planned, the patches can be distributed and installed.
Afterward, the effects must be checked in detail to assess whether the process was successful. A final evaluation of the deployment process allows it to be continuously optimized. Using a patch management platform, necessary patches can be installed and monitored centrally and throughout the company. Term of the Day. Best of Techopedia weekly. News and Special Offers occasional. Techopedia Explains Patch. What Does Patch Mean? Patches may do any of the following: Fix a software bug Install new drivers Address new security vulnerabilities Address software stability issues Upgrade the software.
Techopedia Explains Patch Software patches can be free or available for sale. Share this Term. Tech moves fast! Stay ahead of the curve with Techopedia! Join nearly , subscribers who receive actionable tech insights from Techopedia.
Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter! Sample 3. Patch Releases are typically numbered to signify modifications to a version of Software Release e. Patch Release means a new version of a Minor Software Update that provides Error corrections , and is identified by an alpha character element 6. Patch Release means an Update that provides Error corrections.
Patch Releases are distinguished from earlier versions of the Runtime Component by a change in the alpha character element of the version number of the QNX Momentics development suite with which the new Runtime Components are provided i.
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