We know the risks, the roadblocks, and the solutions – and yet patching remains a problem for enterprises big and small.
A recent study found that, at any given time, half of all mobile operating systems are out of date. Another found that just over half of Macs in the workplace are unprotected by the latest update. This is a security issue because patches address newly discovered weaknesses. If left open, hackers (now armed with automated tools that make the job easier) can find a way in.
The consequences are both real and costly. In healthcare, known and exploited vulnerabilities are the top technical cause for ransomware attacks, with the average breach costing $4M. Not to mention, downtime in this sector hurts patient services and threatens lives. This just isn’t good enough. Yes, there are patching challenges, but there are also readily available solutions.
Patching is easier said than done
Of course, companies of all sizes struggle in this area for several reasons. Deployment in a complex environment is no mean feat, particularly when patches can inadvertently introduce compatibility issues. Existing software and configurations don’t always play nice with updates, and end-users who control their devices often don’t want to switch to the latest operating system.
But, in an era of artificial intelligence (AI), we can’t and shouldn’t treat patching as optional. Companies are up against threat actors in a productivity boon, using technology to more easily search for vulnerabilities and more affordably scale up sophisticated attacks.
The good news? Admins aren’t alone in this fight. Microsoft, for example, releases monthly security fixes on “Patch Tuesday” to ensure its products stay in lockstep with hackers. In October, the tech giant fixed 175 vulnerabilities including two actively exploited zero-days, the largest monthly assortment of defects disclosed by the company this year. This proactive approach from major vendors transforms novel threats into known vulnerabilities with clear remediation steps – but only if organizations actually deploy them in a timely manner.
Automate and streamline
Patching doesn’t need to be difficult. Sure, there are plenty of moving parts and considerations to keep in mind, but simplifying and streamlining the process goes a long way to getting the job done.
For example, automating updates during off-peak hours is the best way to mass deploy with minimal disruption. Unified endpoint management (UEM) platforms are effective since admins can connect through a single pane of glass and push updates at their preferred time. For user-controlled devices, admins must educate about the importance of patches and work to implement user-friendly update processes.
Many of the compatibility issues, meanwhile, are avoidable with thorough testing and lifecycle management. Patching isn’t just deploying updates but rather instituting a structured, continuous process that ensures systems remain secure, stable, and compliant. Therefore, patch lifecycle management requires systematic identification, risk-based prioritization, controlled testing, coordinated deployment, post-update verification, and comprehensive documentation. And, if issues arise, rollback plans are essential to mitigate unforeseen complications.
It’s worth keeping in mind that patching known problems frees up admins to focus on the bigger picture. With fewer issues stemming from unpatched vulnerabilities, tech support can focus on strategic initiatives and higher-value tasks. By treating patching as a continuous process rather than a one-off, organizations can stay ahead of vulnerabilities while maintaining operational efficiency. In essence, patching done right helps teams help themselves.
Security, function and happy employees
Beyond closing vulnerabilities, effective patch management delivers measurable business benefits that extend across the organization.
Modern patch strategies work alongside complementary security layers to create a stronger whole. Zero-trust architecture validates every access request regardless of source, while endpoint detection and response (XDR) provides continuous threat monitoring that catches what preventive measures miss. In tandem, the two tackle known exploits while detecting and responding to novel threats as they happen.
Not only does this provide stronger security but it also improves the digital employee experience (DEX). Technology that seamlessly connects across company systems ensures employees stay productive rather than frustrated. As Forrester recently shared at our annual user conference, HexCon, more than 7 out of 10 employees are likely to stay longer at their current company if they have good DEX. Well-patched endpoints running the latest software are fundamental to this end.
When patches deploy smoothly during convenient hours, systems remain stable and compatible, and security incidents are caught and contained quickly, employees can focus on their actual work rather than IT headaches. Better yet, proper patching also delivers other benefits that compound quietly over time like regulatory compliance, reduced downtime, and reputation protection.
Patching can no longer be an afterthought. By recognizing the triple benefits of better security, improved productivity, and happier employees, leaders can overcome patching pain points and close the gaps.
About the Author
Apu Pavithran is CEO and Founder of Hexnode. Hexnode UEM is an industry-leading endpoint management solution that offers a rich set of features aimed at securing, managing, and remotely monitoring devices within the enterprise. Evolving to accommodate the latest technologies and industry trends, Hexnode serves businesses of all sizes, from start-ups to Fortune 100 companies, with the best business mobility experience. Its reputation is concreted with success stories from satisfied customers across the globe, spanning almost a decade. Hexnode hosts its annual events such as partner summits and user conferences building a global community of IT professionals, enthusiasts and industry experts. They have been featured in many reputed magazines such as TechRadar, Bloomberg, CIO, etc. and have also earned several awards for its technical excellence and performance throughout the years. To learn more about Hexnode, try the 14-day free trial or visit www.hexnode.com today!
