What does patch management refer to?

Patch management refers to the process of managing updates and patches to software. This involves identifying, acquiring, installing, and verifying updates to ensure that software is up-to-date and secure. The purpose of patch management is to protect systems from vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers, thereby maintaining the integrity and security of the systems and data. By applying patches promptly, organizations can mitigate risks that arise from security vulnerabilities in software applications, operating systems, and other components.

This process is essential for maintaining improved performance, fixing bugs, and addressing any issues that may compromise system functionality or security. Regular and systematic patch management helps organizations safeguard their infrastructure against threats and reduces the overall risk of security breaches, demonstrating its critical role in any comprehensive cybersecurity strategy.