Why Patch Management is Crucial for your System’s Security
What is Patch Management?
It’s important to take proactive measures that protect data and systems from security risks by identifying and applying necessary updates. That’s why patch management is crucial for a business’s cybersecurity strategy.
Patch management ensures that software vulnerabilities are quickly identified and addressed. Unpatched systems are prime targets for cyberattacks, as they often provide a gateway for malware, ransomware, and other malicious threats to exploit weaknesses. These risks can be easily minimized through regular patching. It ensures that all applications, operating systems, and network devices are up to date with the latest security fixes.
This proactive approach not only strengthens a company’s defenses but also helps maintain compliance with industry regulations. Some regular software updates are mandated to protect sensitive data.
In addition to enhancing security, patch management improves system performance and reliability. Unpatched software may experience bugs, performance issues, and compatibility problems that could negatively impact business operations. By keeping systems current, businesses can reduce downtime, increase efficiency, and ensure that their technology infrastructure is running smoothly. Furthermore, a robust patch management process also helps businesses avoid potential financial losses from data breaches or system outages, which can be costly in terms of both remediation efforts and reputational damage.
Key reasons why a business needs patch management:
- Security: Protects against vulnerabilities that could be exploited by cybercriminals.
- Regulatory Compliance: Helps meet industry standards and legal requirements for data protection.
- System Performance: Enhances the performance and stability of software by addressing bugs and compatibility issues.
- Risk Mitigation: Reduces the likelihood of expensive data breaches, system outages, and operational disruptions.
- Cost Efficiency: Prevents costly repairs and loss of productivity due to unaddressed security threats.
In fact, approx. 80% of businesses that experienced a breach or failed an audit could have prevented it with patch management or a configuration change.
Do I need to do this myself?
You don’t have to do this alone. Managed service providers (MSPs) play a vital role in this process by monitoring new patches and deploying them systematically to all relevant devices. This consistent approach:
- Minimizes disruption
- Maintains security across the network
- Are scheduled at optimal times to avoid interrupting business operations.
Having an MSP also allows you to discuss the best software changes you might need, when to make them, and how to get your employees to adopt the latest changes positively. In a survey, 58% of business respondents said they run on legacy systems and software that no longer receive supported updates and security patches. If this sounds like you, then your business is at increased security risk. You are not alone, 72% also responded that, “security patching is hard because it could break stuff” which is why you need an expert MSP team by your side.
What if my business has specific laws and regulations to follow?
For businesses that must comply with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) or HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), patch management is essential to ensure both data security and regulatory compliance. These regulations mandate that businesses protect sensitive personal or health-related data from unauthorized access, breaches, or misuse. Unpatched software vulnerabilities can serve as entry points for cyberattacks, risking data breaches and non-compliance with the strict security requirements of GDPR and HIPAA. Regular patching helps mitigate these risks by addressing known vulnerabilities and ensuring that all systems meet the necessary security standards.
Additionally, both GDPR and HIPAA require organizations to demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding data through proactive security measures. A well-implemented patch management strategy provides a clear audit trail, showing that the business is taking appropriate actions to address potential threats and maintain a secure environment. Failing to stay up-to-date with patches could result in hefty fines, legal consequences, and reputational damage for the organization. Therefore, patch management is an indispensable part of maintaining compliance with these regulations.
By working with an MSP to manage updates, businesses can ensure that their technology is not only secure but also aligned with best practices and regulatory requirements, enabling them to operate safely and efficiently.
How do I asses my businesses patch management and security?
Reach out to us at Epoch today to learn how you and your company can benefit from our MSP services. Remember that patch management is crucial for a business’s cybersecurity. We can’t wait to support your growth and security!
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