Patch Management Process Flow
- Develop up-to-date inventory of production systems (OS types, IP addresses, physical location etc)
- Plan standardization of production systems to same version of OS and application software.
- List out all security controls in place.
- Compare reported vulnerabilities against inventory and control list.
- Classify risks, assess vulnerabilities and chances of an attack.
- Apply the patch.
The process of patch management can be a difficult one, especially when you know it's necessary and executives don't feel the same. At ITarian, we understand your difficulties and want to make it easier. While you should explain to the executives what it is and how it's done, sometimes a flow chart can help. We have devised a chart to help others understand the benefits of patching, which can include:
- Closing loopholes so threats are reduced
- Keeping up-to-date with patches that are deemed necessary
- Being more productive during the workday
- No need to stay late or come in early (less overtime paid)
- Having safer and more secure networks/computers
Learn Patch Management Process
Patch management isn't a set-it-and-forget-it thing, and you have to keep up on it. Our product provides automation for the most time-consuming parts and allows your company to flow better. Our chart can help executives and others see the importance and the steps needed:
| INVENTORY |
During this stage, you will create a list of all information systems, which can include:
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| EXISTING VULNERABILITIES |
In this stage, you will find all the available vulnerabilities within all of the systems (which can be made more helpful with an inventory). You should also:
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PATCH MANAGEMENT POLICIES – CURRENT |
Do you currently have a policy and procedure for the process? If not, you need one. If so, you may need to change it. |
| VIRUSES? |
If you seem to have more viruses and worms than before, patching could help. |
| REPORTS |
The flow of your system will be a direct determination of how much effort and work the IT department must put in. For more information, contact us today.
