#GoToGetsIT: This article is part of an ongoing series from GoTo’s thought leaders on the frontlines: Our Solutions Consultants deeply understand our customers’ unique challenges and connect the right solutions to meet their goals using GoTo technology. Here, they share their industry knowledge on what it takes to help businesses everywhere thrive in a remote or hybrid world.
In today's digital age, cybersecurity is a major concern for businesses of all sizes. Patch management, which keeps software and systems updated to address security vulnerabilities, is one of the most important aspects of a strong defense. The patch management lifecycle is a critical process that businesses must implement to keep their systems and data secure.
What is the patch management lifecycle?
Patch management lifecycle refers to the process of identifying, testing, deploying, and verifying software patches or updates on devices or systems. This process helps ensure that devices are protected against known vulnerabilities and security threats. It is important for businesses to have a well-defined patch management lifecycle in place to ensure that devices are always up-to-date and secure. The lifecycle is divided into several stages.
The 6 stages of the patch management lifecycle
- Identifying: Finding vulnerabilities and security gaps in software and systems.
- Prioritization: The process of determining which vulnerabilities are the most serious and require immediate attention.
- Patch testing: Running patches on a small number of systems to ensure they do not cause any problems.
- Deployment: Installing patches on all affected systems.
- Verification: Confirming that the patches were successfully installed, and that the vulnerability was addressed.
- Monitoring: Keeping an eye out for new vulnerabilities and repeating the patch management lifecycle as needed.
How to manage the patch management lifecycle
Patch management is a continuous process that necessitates time, resources, and expertise. Businesses that fail to implement effective patch management may be vulnerable to cyberattacks and data breaches. This is where GoTo Resolve comes in handy.
GoTo Resolve is a remote support solution that enables IT teams to remotely resolve issues and vulnerabilities. By allowing IT teams to remotely deploy patches and monitor systems for new vulnerabilities, this solution can help businesses streamline their patch management lifecycle. IT teams can use GoTo Resolve to quickly identify and address security issues before they become a major threat.
One of the primary benefits of GoTo Resolve is its ability to provide remote support to employees who work from home or on the go, which is especially important in today's hybrid workplace. With GoTo Resolve, IT teams can provide support to employees no matter where they are, reducing downtime and increasing productivity.
Whatever patch management tool you use to manage the lifecycle, remember that it is also important to periodically run a patch management audit. This will ensure that your patch management lifecycle fits your business strategy and runs the way you need it to for the greatest protection.
Get started securing your business
Ready to streamline the patch management lifecycle and address security vulnerabilities quickly, even for remote employees? See how GoTo Resolve can help you remain vigilant against cyber threats and maintain a strong security posture.
