When new cyberthreats emerge every day by the hour, maintaining the security and efficiency of your IT infrastructure is crucial. One of the key aspects of this maintenance is managing updates and patches. But should your IT support provider handle all these tasks?
Let’s explore the benefits and potential drawbacks to help you make an informed decision.
Updates and patches are essential for several reasons:
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Delaying patches will result in known vulnerabilities being exploited by cybercriminals. Patching as soon as possible is a priority as these vulnerabilities will be fixed before cybercriminals get the opportunity to take action.
A common technique for patching involves granting all users local administrator rights to manage updates themselves. However, this method has several issues. Firstly, not all users will install the patches, as evidenced by Windows Update often reporting many pending installations. Granting administrator rights to users creates a significant security risk. End users typically aren’t cautious when clicking links or opening email attachments, which can lead to their computers being compromised and their administrator rights exploited. Once a PC is infected, the local network can be used to spread the infection.
Even in secure environments, if an application encounters issues during operation, granting administrator rights may resolve these issues but also introduces new security vulnerabilities. Therefore, it’s crucial to determine the specific permissions required by an application rather than providing blanket administrator rights.
Many operating systems and third-party applications feature self-updating technology, which might seem beneficial at first glance. However, if devices are properly secured, users may not have the necessary permissions to install these updates. Allowing vendors to push out updates can risk breaking critical business applications. For example, Java updates have been known to cause issues. Patches often do not undergo the same rigorous testing as full software releases, which means they can introduce significant bugs. Companies like Microsoft have had to recall patches due to major issues.
Microsoft provides enterprises with Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), a widely used tool for managing software updates. However, many companies mistakenly believe they are fully protected simply by using this program. WSUS does not offer comprehensive reporting, leaving administrators without a clear picture of their security status. Additionally, WSUS focuses on distributing Microsoft patches, but what about third-party software applications or non-Microsoft operating systems? It’s crucial to regularly reassess your update management strategies.
Even with a locked-down security environment or using Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), you may still be vulnerable. Consider the risks associated with Mac and Linux devices, third-party applications like Adobe Flash and Java, and social engineering attacks that trick users into revealing usernames and passwords. Implementing patch management best practices is crucial. It’s essential to select a solution that addresses the major challenges in developing an effective patch management process.
Having your IT support provider manage all updates and patches can offer significant benefits, including enhanced security, improved performance, compliance, minimised downtime, and cost savings. However, it’s essential to weigh these benefits against potential drawbacks such as compatibility issues, dependence on external providers, cost, and control.
Ultimately, the decision should be based on your specific business needs and the reliability of your IT support provider. By carefully considering these factors, you can ensure that your IT infrastructure remains secure, efficient, and up to date.
Do you want to overcome patching drawbacks? If you need strategies to create a strong patch management process with a major focus on risk management, get in touch so we can help you.
Anne-Marie Blazdell is a Marketing & Communications Manager with expertise in digital marketing, content creation, and IT solutions. With a strong foundation in graphic design, she trained at Farnborough College of Technology and Southampton Solent University before advancing into marketing and business IT support.
Since joining Syn-Star in 2022, Anne-Marie has specialised in crafting SEO-optimised website content, managing social media, and helping businesses navigate the complexities of IT. Her work bridges the gap between technology and business, making IT more accessible and effective.
Anne-Marie Blazdell
Anne-Marie Blazdell is a Marketing & Communications Manager with expertise in digital marketing, content creation, and IT solutions. With a strong foundation in graphic design, she trained at Farnborough College of Technology and Southampton Solent University before advancing into marketing and business IT support.
Since joining Syn-Star in 2022, Anne-Marie has specialised in crafting SEO-optimised website content, managing social media, and helping businesses navigate the complexities of IT. Her work bridges the gap between technology and business, making IT more accessible and effective.
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Anne-Marie Blazdell is a Marketing & Communications Manager with expertise in digital marketing, content creation, and IT solutions. With a strong foundation in graphic design, she trained at Farnborough College of Technology and Southampton Solent University before advancing into marketing and business IT support.
Since joining Syn-Star in 2022, Anne-Marie has specialised in crafting SEO-optimised website content, managing social media, and helping businesses navigate the complexities of IT. Her work bridges the gap between technology and business, making IT more accessible and effective.
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