A Step By Step Guide To Patch Management Software

Wondering which software to use for patch management?
Want to know about the different types of software required for patch management?

In a previous article, we talked in detail about what is patch management. Considering that you guys have understood everything about it, in this article we are going to talk about the best patch management software to use.

But first, let’s briefly look at patch management.

What Is Patch Management?

Normally many software developers apply a set of updates to fix several technical issues. This set of updates is together known as a patch.

The areas that require most of the patches include operating systems, applications, and embedded systems.

Patch management is the process of identifying and deploying these patches, to a variety of endpoints, including computers, mobile devices, and servers.

Click here for more detail about Patch Management.

What is Patch Management Software?

In simple words, patch management software refers to a tool that helps in managing the patches effectively.

A patch manager cannot perform their work without open software, making it necessary.

Let’s discuss in detail why patch management tools are important?

What is 3rd Party Software Patch Management?

The practice of sending patch updates to third-party apps that have been installed on one or more of your endpoints is known as 3rd party software patch management (e.g., servers, desktops, or laptops).

What Is Agentless Patch Management Software?

Agent installation is not necessary for agentless deployments, which instead use a central server or another distribution point to distribute updates to numerous endpoints. Additionally, the central server will handle installed, detected, and missing patches, as well as patch tasks and make fixes accessible to endpoints in need.

Why Patch Management Tools Are Important?

In simple words, patch management tools are important since they close crucial gaps in security that the company may face.

According To Worldwide Reports, Several Interesting Facts Have Been Revealed About The Gaps In Security:

• Some of the most vulnerable security systems were included in internet-facing applications. 78% of their discovered weak spots were rated as high risks.
• 38% of them were ranked at medium risk which is till fa astidious number.
• Internet applications have 35% of their vulnerabilities being rated as critical.
• Internet-facing network layers had 79% of the vulnerabilities being rated as high risk or critical risk.

8 Best Open Source Patch Management Software:

1.PDQ Deploy:

PDQ Deploy is a free patch management tool for Windows devices only that can also be updated with a premium membership, rounding out this top 5 with a freebie. However, it may compete in terms of updating without requiring you to pay for more features.

Patches from more than 200 programs may be installed using PDQ deploy the free edition. Additionally, it provides the ability to construct a customized multi-step patch distribution plan and set updates remotely.

2.Itarian:

Itarian is a windows open-source patch management program that was formerly known as Comodo one windows patch management. It may help your business with three key aspects of vulnerability management. It can assist your sysadmins in managing patches, eradicating security holes, and resolving issues in the everyday applications you use.

3.Action1:

Action1 is a cloud-based, free patch management application for windows. It performs a real-time scan of your workstations to look for vulnerabilities and security holes in the company’s IT system. This makes it a viable alternative to other cyber risks, such as data breaches.

While action1 promotes its vulnerability management feature as a more comprehensive endpoint security tool, it still does a respectable job of keeping your applications up to date. Its built-in cloud-directed patch deployment mechanism makes this possible.

4.Pulseway:

At its most fundamental level, Pulseway is a cross between a free patch management tool and a DNS security solution. The operating systems windows, red hat Linux, Debian, Raspbian, and Mac OS, as well as IOS, Android, and Windows phones for mobile devices are all compatible with it.

The best users of this package are small companies with a limited number of endpoints. You will have to pay for the updated solution to enhance its capabilities and expand the protection to more workstations.

Both Microsoft Windows updates and fixes from other parties are covered by Pulseway. If you choose the premium plan, it contains several capabilities that make it one of the most scalable choices on our list.

5.Local Update Publisher:

As an addition to the windows software update services, Local update publisher is a patch management program that is both free and open-source. Its key selling point is that system administrators may build bespoke software packages as needed, upload them to WSUS for review, and then publish them after receiving permission. It also seamlessly integrates with your installed OS.

6.ManageEngine’s Desktop Central:

Windows open-source patch management solution ManageEngine’s desktop central also manages vulnerabilities. You may remotely delete corporate data, configure WIFI and firewall devices, distribute updates instantly, and manage USB policies. The distinguishing feature of desktop central is its capacity to pre-test fixes and upgrades before their mass deployment. a mechanism for managing particularly strong software updates.

7.Chocolatey:

Chocolatey is a fairly robust open source patch management solution for windows that can accommodate more than 7,000 packages, despite seeming like an app for chocolate lovers. Be advised that the usage of an SSH command line makes this not suitable for the faint of heart. There is a fairly high learning curve, but if you get the hang of it, you can force-install or remove software, build custom packages, and write scripts. The fact that chocolatey is free makes it much more fantastic.

8.GFI LanGuard:

Even though GFI LanGuard isn’t precisely open-source, I decided to place it on the list as an honorable mention because you can access all of its capabilities during the 30-day trial period. Along with having some rather excellent vulnerability prevention measures, it’s also incredibly user-friendly, compatible with all major operating systems (such as Linux, Microsoft Windows, and Mac OS), and compatible with all of these platforms.

Best Patch Management Software of 2023:

Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud:

Backup, modern Ai-based Anti-malware, Antivirus, and Endpoint protection management are all combined into one solution with Acronis cyber protection cloud.

Integration and automation give service providers unparalleled simplicity by lowering complexity, boosting productivity, and lowering operational expenses. The only service provider offering backup, Anti-malware (including Antivirus, Anti-Ransomware, and Anti-Cryptojacking), and security and management features including vulnerability assessments, Patch Management, URL filtering, and more is Acronis cyber protect cloud.

Now, service providers may simplify their products, prioritize security, raise sales, lower churn, and boost recurring income all at the same time. Make better use of resources so your staff can concentrate on serving clients, receive improved security with integrated AI-based protections, and generate new recurring income and greater margins that will develop your company.

Acronis cyber protect, founded on our market-leading backup and data recovery solution and enriched with next-generation, full-stack anti-malware protection, streamlines onboarding, daily operations, and reporting while fending off sophisticated threats with new use cases made possible by integration. Delivering the cutting-edge cyber security your consumers want is simple with Acronis cyber protect cloud.

NinjaOne:

Leading unified IT operations solution, NinjaOne makes it easier for IT teams to operate together. With NinjaOne, MSPs, and IT, departments can automate, manage, and remediate all of their endpoint management activities on a quick, cutting-edge platform that is user-friendly. This increases technician productivity and user happiness. With over 7,000 clients served globally, NinjaOne routinely ranks first for top-notch customer service. G2 and Gartner digital markets have acknowledged NinjaOne as the highest-rated program in its category for the past three years.

Atera:

For MSPs and IT service providers, Atera is the best all-inclusive remote IT monitoring & management solution. Full RMM integrated PSA, free remote access, patch management, IT automation, alerts, helpdesk, ticketing, chat reports, billing, and much more are all included in Atera. You may start saving money right now by switching to Atera. You may expand your it service business without incurring additional expenses if you provide limitless devices and reasonable fixed-cost pricing.

Patch My PC:

Organizations utilizing Microsoft configuration manager or Microsoft Intune may use match my pc to keep their third-party software updated. Former Microsoft developer Justin Chalfant started patch my pc in 2011, a business with headquarters in Colorado. We are a small group with a strong sense of purpose for what we do, why we do it, and for whom we do it. On our about us page, which is located at https://patchmypc.com/about-us, you may read more about our history. Because of our unmatched commitment to the client experience, patch my pc has a demonstrated track record of quality. Here are some reviews from past clients who have used our services.

Microsoft System Center:

By offering unified administration Microsoft system center assists clients in reaping the rewards of the Microsoft cloud platform. With out-of-the-box monitoring, provisioning, configuration, automation, protection, and self-service, you can achieve quick time-to-value.

PDQ Deploy:

The creators developed a software deployment tool called PDQ Deploy to assist you in automating patch management. In practically no time, you can update your third-party applications, deploy scripts, and make practical system modifications. Users may choose the software they want to distribute with deploy, designate which machines need updates, and choose their desired deployment schedule. As soon as the deployment is planned, PDQ will discreetly and automatically install updates without bothering end-users. When used in conjunction with PDQ Inventory, which detects, identifies, and removes undesirable or outdated apps installed by your end users, PDQ deploy performs at its best.

ManageEngine Desktop Central:

A unified endpoint management system called desktop central makes it possible to manage servers, desktops, laptops, cellphones, tablets, and point-of-sale devices from a single place. Automate common desktop administration tasks including patching, software distribution, imaging and deployment, IT asset management, software licensing management, program usage statistics monitoring, USB device management, remote desktop control, and more. You can manage operating systems for Windows, Mac, and Linux using it. Manage your mobile devices by implementing profiles and policies, setting up WIFI, VPN Linux, email accounts, etc., placing restrictions on the usage of the camera and browser, etc., and safeguarding them by turning on passcodes, remote lock/wipe, etc. You can manage all of your iOS, Android, and Windows mobile devices.

Manage Engine Patch Manager Plus:

To reduce security risks, Manage Engine Patch Manager checks endpoints for missing updates and tests patches before deployment. automates audits, reporting, and patch distribution to third-party apps and the operating system for improved visibility and control.

Acronis Cyber Protect:

Acronis cyber protect is a single solution that combines backup with AI-based antimalware and security management. Automation and integration offer unsurpassed protection, boosting output while lowering TCO. With its one agent, single administrative interface, and single license, Acronis cyber protect eliminates the complexity and hazards associated with non-integrated solutions. Combining multiple security technologies into a single solution improves dependability and cuts down on the time needed to learn, implement, and maintain solutions. You can simplify administration, eliminate pointless administrative tasks, and reduce TCO with the aid of Acronis cyber protect, which offers comprehensive protection from today’s threats in one integrated solution.

Automox:

Organizations with limited employees and alert fatigue must find more effective strategies to reduce their exposure to vulnerabilities in the face of escalating threats and a fast-growing attack surface. Automox is a cutting-edge platform for cyber hygiene that, with just half the effort of conventional solutions, closes the aperture of attack by more than 80%. Automox enforces OS & Third-Party Patch Management, security settings, and custom scripting across windows, mac, and Linux from a single easy UI. It is cloud-native and available everywhere. Without the need to construct expensive infrastructure, IT and seconds can instantly take control of and share visibility of on-premises, remote, and virtual endpoints. To achieve best-in-class security solutions faster and with fewer resources, Automox drastically lowers business risk while increasing operational efficiency.

How To Choose The Right Patch Management Software?

Some of the common traits which an organization looks for in patch management software are:

1. Different operating systems including Linux and Mac apply patches.
2. Different endpoints like desktops, laptops, servers, etc., apply patches.
3. Provide automated patch management to save time.
4. Offer instant reports on the latest patch update statuses.

Conclusion:

To effectively manage software updates, a reliable automated patch management software system is essential.

It should be as thorough but also quick and easy to maintain the security, integrity, and accessibility of the data and systems of any firm.

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