Patch management is the ongoing process of updating and maintaining software applications and operating systems with the latest security patches and bug fixes. It's a crucial practice for enhancing security by addressing vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit.

Patch Management Process

1. Identification: Identifying vulnerabilities in your systems through vulnerability scanning or vendor notifications.
2. Prioritization: Prioritizing identified vulnerabilities based on their severity and potential impact.
3. Testing: Testing patches in a non-production environment to ensure they don't introduce new issues.
4. Deployment: Deploying approved patches to production systems.
5. Verification: Verifying that patches have been applied successfully and addressed the vulnerabilities.
6. Monitoring: Continuously monitoring systems for new vulnerabilities and ensuring patch effectiveness.
7. Documentation: Documenting the entire patch management process for future reference and audit purposes.
8. Adaptation: Adapting the process based on lessons learned and evolving security threats.

• Corrective Actions:

This refers to applying patches that fix vulnerabilities in software. Vulnerabilities are weaknesses that attackers can exploit to gain unauthorized access to systems or data. Patching these vulnerabilities is essential for maintaining a secure IT environment.

• Compensatory Controls:

While patching is ideal, it may not always be immediately possible. Compensative controls are temporary measures put in place to mitigate risks while a permanent fix (patch) is being deployed. These controls can include things like restricting access to vulnerable systems or deploying additional security software.

• Security Measures:

These are proactive steps taken to prevent vulnerabilities from arising in the first place. Security measures include vulnerability scanning, using strong passwords, and keeping software up to date.

Key Words

• Risk Reduction
• Prioritization of Mitigation
• RAD (Risk Acceptance Document)
• RED (Risk Exception)

Patch Application Timeline

The recommended timeline for applying patches can vary depending on the severity of the vulnerability and the industry you operate in. Here's a guideline for Banking and Non-Banking sectors: