What is Patching in cyber security?

05/01/2023

1 minute read

Patches are modifications to software code that often come from a security developer to fix security problems or technical issues. Most of the time, a security patch is released after victims are already trapped by hackers due to a vulnerability.

By, Jack Wong

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Patches are modifications to software code that often come from a security developer to fix security problems or technical issues. Most of the time, a security patching in cyber security is released after hackers trap victims due to a vulnerability.

What is the Patch Management Process?

As all software has technical flaws, these can easily be exploited by cybercriminals once found and shared publicly. If there is no operating system and third-party applications are not properly patched or updated, hackers may be able to exploit victims. In that case, patch management plays an important role; it is intended to keep software up to date and avoid all levels of cyberattacks on computers and network devices. Patch management is the process of identifying, acquiring, testing and installing patches.

Patch management keeps the network secure, reliable and operational and is essential for staying compliant with security and privacy regulations.

Patch Management Process

Inventorying devices, operating systems and apps
Deciding what software versions to standardise
Categorising patches by risk and priority
Testing patches in isolated environments
Running a pilot of patches on a sample of devices
Validating patches and detecting missing patches
Planning the rollout of patches
Documenting patches, vulnerabilities, test results, and deployments

The Benefit of Patching Security

Address security vulnerabilities
Fix Bugs
Introducing new features
Securing Networks and Endpoints
Reduce Downtime & Feature Enhancements
Compliance

Swiftcomm, an IT support specialist, can help make sure your system has all the suitable patches installed in a timely manner giving your system maximum protection against penetration by hackers.

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