Benefits of Vulnerability Patch Management
Many of today’s top companies have been working on vulnerability management for as long as they’ve operated on a network of information technology. After all, information security is an important component of running a successful business – especially when that business works with personal information, finances, and other sensitive data.
However, companies that have an existing vulnerability management plan might not be as protected as they think. Over time, the series of patches used to repair weaknesses or “holes” in the system might burden a network or fail to provide complete safety against penetration. That’s why most IT consultants recommend vulnerability patch management as a way to revitalize an existing system that is either ineffective or that hasn’t been updated in at least a year.
Overall, vulnerability patch management systems work by:
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Providing a core for all other vulnerability tasks. Instead of merely putting patches on top of patches, you’re looking beyond an immediate solution to an entire restructuring of the way your business handles technology. This also creates a concrete plan of action that can gear your entire company toward a more results-oriented approach to technology.
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Bringing administrators, technology experts, and separate department together. For a vulnerability patch management program to work effectively, it must become a company-wide solution that pays attention to the organizational hierarchy. What department has the biggest need for vulnerability protection? Where is it the most cost-effective to start? The answers to these questions can be integrated into policy to become a baseline for future vulnerability patch solutions.
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Eliminating downtime. Whether it’s freeing up a burdened system to run more effectively or freeing up your employees to turn their attention to more pressing tasks, a vulnerability patch management plan is a great way to monitor, revise, and streamline your information system.
Next week, we’ll look at how getting started with vulnerability patch management works and what businesses can expect.