Why Patch Management Should Be In Your IT Support Plan

Monica Morris • May 29, 2018

What Is Patch Management

As we’ve shared in past blog posts, there are several critical security measures to monitor in order to maintain a secure business network for your organization. One of the items you’ll want to keep at the top of your cyber security to-do list is software updates. Included in the category of software updates are patches that need to be constantly monitored in order to keep a network highly secure. The management of these patches is known as Patch Management.

Patch Management aims at updating, testing, fixing or improving software programs. The process of creating strategies to deploy patches in a systematic manner is also another way to describe patch management. Applied patches may be used to fix security vulnerabilities, security gaps and performance bottlenecks. Having a patch management plan in place will help to ensure efficient updates are happening properly. These updates are a key component for establishing a secure business IT support plan. 

How Patch Management Works

A typical OS such as windows contains millions of lines of code, so it is impossible to ship without bugs. OS and software vendors release patches as when needed in response to a discovered vulnerability or program bugs.

Patch management tries to answer three questions:

  1. What should be patched?
  2. How regular patching should be applied.
  3. How to maintain system functionality after patching.

Functions of Patch Management

Patch management aims to solve three principal problems, which are:

  • Protecting your business from cyber attacks.
  • Improve software performance.
  • Solve compatibility issues with existing software.

The Importance of Patch Management

Patch management can help keep your business safe. Because it deals with vulnerabilities that can bring down your system, it is a mandatory part of proactive security management. Businesses that do not apply patches are at a greater risk of being the target of a data breach.

The decisions to patch a system can be complicated due to the possibility of breaking existing applications. Even with this, patch management cannot be ignored. Research has shown that  around 80% of cyber attacks involves software loopholes that have existing patches. If you don’t patch your system on time, you will make your business an attractive and easy target for cybercriminals.

Patch management allows you to test applications on newly patched OS before deploying them system-wide. This is to reduce the risk of a breakdown in critical business applications due to potential software glitches that may come with the patch.

Any type of delay for deploying security patches will leave your computer system open to cyber attacks. Hence patch management is about managing the risk of not deploying a patch and the risk of business disruption.

Patch Management and Cybersecurity

Ever since cybercriminals with little skills can launch attacks, cyber incidents have increased exponentially. Publicly available tools have made the works of hackers easier. Merely applying patches on random occasions is therefore not enough.

There are patch management techniques that can help keep your data safe and improve your network security. They are discussed below:

  1. Deploy proper discovery service: The first step to securing your system is to know the devices and services that exist on the network. The right discovery service automatically detects services on your network. The service should have both active and passive discovery capabilities. A discovery service helps keep your patch management up to date and ensures that no device endpoint is lagging behind in patch updates.

 

  1. Apply patch to all applications: Many of the programs on a business computer are third-party software. They do not benefit from the auto-update that are available for many OS by default. Because of this, attackers can take advantage of unpatched vulnerabilities in third-party software to hijack your computer. Thus, it is necessary to treat every software program on your computer as important and keep their patches up to date.

 

  1. Offer support for many OS: Modern work environment includes the use of computers with different operating systems including Windows, Mac and Linux. Your patch management must take this into consideration and support their integration and passion to automate patch.

 

  1. Set special preferences for fragile applications: You need to factor in the potential of a system breakdown when patching your applications. Some patches are known to break the functionality of an OS or software. If you have such programs, you can leave them unpatched. Not patching an application may open your system to common vulnerabilities, you need to set up the software in a way that will reduce the risk of attacks. You can do this by downgrading permissions and whitelisting network access for the software involved.

 

Patch management should be an important part of your business network security. If you ignore patches, you will make your business vulnerable to attacks. These attacks can be very costly to your organization. If your organization finds that they do not have the manpower to support a patch management plan, please contact SDTEK as we can manage such patches and make sure your most critical software is secure and staying up to date.

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Staying Ahead of Cyber Threats in Fort Wayne: A Guide for Local Businesses

05 Jan, 2024
In an era where digital transformation is at its peak, businesses are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats in Fort Wayne, Indiana. With cybercriminals becoming more sophisticated, local companies must avoid these threats to safeguard their digital assets. As cybersecurity experts, SDTEK is dedicated to helping Fort Wayne businesses fortify their defenses against these ever-evolving threats. Understanding the Cyber Threat Landscape in Fort Wayne Like many thriving urban areas, Fort Wayne is home to a diverse range of businesses. The variety of enterprises here makes the city a vibrant economic hub, from bustling tech startups to established manufacturing companies. However, this diversity also makes the area a target for cybercriminals. The most common threats include phishing attacks, ransomware, data breaches, and malware. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are particularly vulnerable, often due to limited IT security resources. Recognizing these threats is the first step in building an effective defense strategy. Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever for Local Businesses The consequences of cyber attacks can be devastating. They can lead to financial loss, damage to reputation, and legal implications if customer data is compromised. In today's interconnected world, the fallout from a security breach can extend far beyond the immediate damage, impacting customer trust and business continuity. Tailored Cybersecurity Strategies for Fort Wayne Businesses At SDTEK, we understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to cybersecurity. This is why we offer customized security strategies that cater to the specific needs of Fort Wayne businesses. Our approach includes: Risk Assessment: Evaluate your business's particular risks, considering factors unique to your industry and operational model. Employee Training: Empowering your staff with knowledge and best practices to recognize and prevent potential cyber threats. Implementing Robust Security Measures: This includes firewalls, anti-virus software, and secure Wi-Fi networks tailored to your business's specific needs. Regular Monitoring and Updates: Continuously monitor for threats and keep your security systems up-to-date to combat new and emerging threats. Best Practices for Cyber Hygiene In addition to tailored strategies, there are general best practices that every business in Fort Wayne can implement: Regularly update software and systems to patch vulnerabilities. Use strong, unique passwords and consider multi-factor authentication. Regularly back up data and store it securely. Establish a clear policy for handling sensitive data. Collaboration and Continuous Learning Cybersecurity is not a one-time effort but a continuous process. Collaboration between businesses and cybersecurity experts like SDTEK is crucial. We encourage Fort Wayne businesses to engage in local cybersecurity forums and workshops to stay informed about the latest threats and defenses. Conclusion In Fort Wayne, staying ahead of cyber threats is essential for the longevity and success of your business. By understanding the risks, implementing tailored strategies, and practicing good cyber hygiene, local businesses can significantly reduce their vulnerability to cyber-attacks. At SDTEK, we are committed to partnering with you in this journey, providing the expertise and support you need to protect your digital assets and thrive in a digital-first world. For more insights and assistance on cybersecurity solutions tailored for your Fort Wayne business, contact SDTEK . Your digital safety is our priority.

The Benefits of Cybersecurity Dark Web Monitoring for Business Owners

06 Dec, 2023
In today's digital landscape, cybersecurity is paramount to protect sensitive business information from falling into the wrong hands. As a business owner, you understand the value of securing your data and safeguarding your reputation. That's where dark web monitoring comes into play. What is Dark Web Monitoring? The dark web is a hidden part of the internet where illegal activities often take place, including the buying and selling of stolen data. Dark web monitoring involves scanning the dark web to identify any instances of your business's compromised information being traded or sold. By monitoring these underground networks, you gain valuable insights and can take immediate action to mitigate potential risks. Key Features and Benefits Real-time Alerts: Dark web monitoring provides real-time alerts, notifying you the moment your business's data appears on the dark web. This allows you to respond swiftly and take the necessary steps to protect your sensitive information. Comprehensive Coverage: Dark web monitoring casts a wide net across various dark web platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage. It searches for mentions of your business, compromised credentials, financial information, and other sensitive data that may have been exposed. Access to an Expert Support Team: With dark web monitoring, you're not alone in the fight against cyber threats. You have access to an expert support team that can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide recommendations to strengthen your cybersecurity posture. Addressing Misconceptions Misconception 1: Dark web monitoring is only necessary for large businesses. Cybercriminals do not discriminate based on business size. Any organization, regardless of its scale, can become a target. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable as they often lack the robust security infrastructure that larger enterprises may have. Dark web monitoring is essential for all businesses, regardless of their size, to proactively protect their data. Misconception 2: Dark web monitoring is too technical to understand. While dark web monitoring may involve technical processes, the service providers are equipped to simplify the complexities for you. They will guide you through the setup, explain the monitoring process, and provide actionable insights in a user-friendly manner. You don't need to be a cybersecurity expert to benefit from dark web monitoring. Misconception 3: Dark web monitoring is expensive. The cost of dark web monitoring is a fraction of the potential financial and reputational damage that a data breach can cause. It's an investment in the security and longevity of your business. Additionally, many service providers offer flexible pricing options to suit different business needs, making it an affordable solution for businesses of all sizes. Conclusion As a business owner, the protection of your data is essential for the continuity and success of your organization. Dark web monitoring offers a proactive approach to cybersecurity, enabling you to identify and respond to potential threats swiftly. By leveraging real-time alerts, comprehensive coverage, and the support of experts, you can safeguard your sensitive information, maintain customer trust, and protect your business from reputational damage. Don't wait until it's too late. Invest in dark web monitoring to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and gain the peace of mind you deserve. Your business's security is worth it.
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