How do you track patch deployment to ensure system security?

1 Define your patch policy

The first step to track patch deployment is to define your patch policy - a set of rules and guidelines that specify how, when, and what patches to apply to your systems. This should include aspects such as the sources and types of patches to include or exclude, the frequency and schedule of patch scanning and deployment, the priority and severity of patches based on risk and impact, the testing and approval process for patches, the backup and rollback plan for patches, and the communication and notification plan for patches. Having a patch policy helps you standardize and automate your patching process, as well as align your patching goals with your business and security objectives.

2 Choose your patch tools

The next step to track patch deployment is to choose your patch tools. Patch tools are software applications that help you scan, download, install, and monitor patches on your systems. These tools can be divided into two categories: native patch tools, which are built-in or integrated with your operating system or application, and third-party patch tools, which are developed by external vendors or organizations. When selecting your patch tools, consider factors such as your patch policy, system environment, budget, and preferences. Moreover, make sure that the patch tools you choose are compatible and interoperable with each other and with your other system management tools.

3 Implement your patch workflow

The third step to track patch deployment is to implement your patch workflow. A patch workflow is a sequence of actions and tasks that you perform to apply patches to your systems. It should follow the principles of plan, do, check, and act. This typically includes identifying and evaluating relevant patches, prioritizing and scheduling them based on your policy and system availability, downloading and deploying them, as well as performing pre- and post-patching tasks like backup, configuration, testing, or rebooting. You should also verify and monitor the status of your patch deployment, collect any feedback or issues that arise from the process, take corrective or preventive actions to improve it, document and report the activities and outcomes. In this way, a patch workflow helps you to track patch deployment by providing a clear and consistent framework for your patching process.

5 Communicate your patch results

The fifth step to track patch deployment is to communicate your patch results, which are the outcomes and impacts of your patching process on your systems and business. This will help demonstrate the value and benefits of your patching process, as well as share and learn from your patching experiences and best practices. To communicate your patch results, you should define your audience and objectives, such as the system owners, the business stakeholders, the security team, or the audit team. Use your patch tools or other system management tools to generate and format reports with patch summaries, details, trends, and recommendations. Deliver and present these reports to your audience using email, dashboard, meeting, or webinar. Solicit feedback or questions from your audience and incorporate any suggestions or improvements into your patching process. This will help you track patch deployment by providing a transparent and collaborative platform for your patching process.