Security Patching Helps Protect Your Business From a Cyberattack

Summary: What is a security patch? Learn why software patching is necessary for computer and network security and the value of patch management for small and midsized businesses.

What Is a Software Patch?

Software is not perfect when developers release it. Inevitably, bugs are discovered after launching software and being used by many purchasers. A software patch is defined as: “a set of changes to a computer program or its supporting data designed to update, fix, or improve it. Patching includes fixing security vulnerabilities and other bugs, with such patches usually being called bugfixes or bug fixes.” The main purpose of patches is to fix problems in how software functions and patch security issues, including vulnerabilities in operating systems. In general, software patches are included in software updates. During the lifespan of programs, it is possible for many patches to be released over a period of years.

What Is a Security Patch?

Software updates and security patches often occur together. While many software updates include fixes for issues with the way an app functions, some address flaws in cyber security that create serious vulnerabilities. Such vulnerabilities create easy targets for cybercriminals. Once a security flaw becomes widely known, hackers will use it to exploit unpatched computers. Security patches are one of the most important reasons for users to accept updates on all their software, especially their operating systems. Up-to-date software can help you maintain secure and seamless productivity on your computer system.

What Is Patch Management?

Patch management is one part of comprehensive IT security maintenance. It ensures that all available updates for your software are installed so that your computer and all its connected devices run as smoothly and securely as possible. When users do not apply security patches, they create opportunities for hackers to breach their network and all its connected devices. Over 60% of cyberattacks are estimated to capitalize on instances when important security patches are not installed. Inconsistent software updates or ignoring security patches make it easier for cybercriminals to launch a successful attack. Here are three main benefits to implementing patch management:

• Enhances Cyber Security – By regularly patching all your software, including your operating system, you can fortify an essential layer of cyber security.
• Adds Functionality and Less Downtime – Patches (or fixes) often improve functionality compared to previous software versions. Software developers intend to continue to fix bugs as they come to light from user feedback and continued testing.
• Supports High-Compliance Businesses – Patching your system when updates are available will help prevent regulatory violations and the resulting fines and additional scrutiny.

It is best to apply patches within the first 30 days of their release date. Also, many of the updating and patching processes can be automated. However, an IT expert should oversee approving or rejecting the most important updates along with their timing. Here are the steps that should be incorporated into a patch management plan:

• Monitor Patch Releases – Know the release date of all your software’s patches so you may be prepared for the updates in advance. Good endpoint management tools can automate the process.
• Scan All Endpoints – Using your endpoint management tool, you can scan all network-connected endpoint devices, checking for patch releases.
• Download Patches from the Software Vendor – Stay on top of updates from vendors and then download them for installation.
• Pre-Test Patches – You can never predict unexpected software conflicts that may arise after installing a patch. Therefore, whenever possible, it is a best practice to test them in a safe environment before deployment.
• Schedule Deployment – Large patches sometimes slow down your system or require restarts. It is important to schedule and automate patch installation for a time that does not disrupt your business, home computer system or any of your endpoint devices. Many updates, including patches, are best deployed overnight.
• Certify Patch Validity – Once patches are deployed, they should be tested again to ensure everything is operating as it should. Try using the patched programs and see if anything slows or malfunctions in any way.
• Save All Patch Documentation – Run patch reports and keep them for ready reference and compliance audits. Patching is not a set-and-forget operation.

Software Security Patching Best Practices

Patch management is complex and requires ongoing attention. However, once the management process is in place, it will become routine and could save you significant time and money in the long run by avoiding disruptive and costly cyberattacks. Here are some software patching best practices:

• Prioritize Which Patches Are Most Important for Security and Functionality – Start with the most important patches.
• Centralize Patch Management – Patching will be most efficient when managed from one computer console. Therefore, all patch management responsibility should be executed through that machine to avoid conflicts.
• Automate As Much As Possible – By automating the patch management function, you can reduce the risk of missing new releases and reduce the time from release to download and deployment.
• Establish A Patch Management Process and Stick to It - If you are a home user, follow your own plan. If you are a small or midsized business, enact company-wide IT best practices and security awareness training, so everyone is on the same page and your computer operations can be up-to-date and secure.

Software Patch Management: Key Takeaways

Computer and network security works best when applied in layers. Software patching is just one of the many important layers needed to keep sensitive business and private information secure. Regulators and insurers know that this is vitally important to data security. Being able to document security patching can help you pass compliance audits and qualify for cyber insurance. Contact your IT professional to check your computers and connected devices for the latest security patches, and ask them to show you how to automate updates. They can also provide a full network assessment and make recommendations for additional security layers.