What is patch management?

Do You Know What Patch Management Is?Patch management consists of grading new patches, testing them, and pushing them out. Patching plays a crucial part in businesses staying up-to-date with the newest versions of all the software they use on a day-to-day basis. Patching can correct known issues without installing new programs from square one. The system will remain secure and navigable without any disruption to the user when patches are implemented correctly.

Importance of Patch Management for Businesses

A patch is a piece of code that is created to be integrated into an existing software program. Software providers often release patches as new “updates” or “versions” which can improve functionality, performance, provide bug fixes, and prevent security breaches. Installing a Windows update or upgrading to the newest version of an iPhone app are examples of patch deployment. Without good patch management, a company could have a vulnerability in its software that a hacker could take advantage of—which could lead to stealing private information or bringing down the entire system.

Software developers will typically release new patches when:

  • The developer has received reports of successful hacking in one of their applications
  • The developer’s coding and testing team discovered a glitch before it could be exploited
  • The developer has found a better way to implement or strengthen security
  • The developer has improved user interface on one or more applications

Software and applications cannot exist in a vacuum. They will need to be updated regularly—in most cases, every few weeks—in order to function as intended. As businesses may neglect to install patches or fail to identify weaknesses in their systems, patch management is a necessary part of any IT service.

Our team is proud to offer patch management for all Microsoft releases, as well as third-party software programs. We also identify potential security threats before they can be exploited, implement emergency patches for disaster recovery, and provide you with a report detailing any potential vulnerabilities. Contact our family-owned DC-area data center today to get more information about how we can serve your needs or set up an appointment to tour our Chantilly facility.