Regular software updates and patches can effectively prevent numerous safety breaches by addressing newly identified vulnerabilities in a timely manner, thereby minimizing the risk of exploitation by malicious actors. Provides a centralised platform for IT directors to identify and remediate recognized vulnerabilities across the majority of laptops, software applications, and infrastructure used within their organization.
Patch management software that truly excels offers a user-friendly interface, affordable pricing, and automated capabilities to boost efficiency while minimizing risk. When assessing my high-level recommendations for enterprise patch management, I aim to empower you in making informed decisions for your organization.
Patch management software compatibility
On my record, each patch supervisor provides centralized management capabilities for at least one administrator to review, approve, and deploy updates across multiple machines directly. The key distinguishing features among these components lie in their value proposition, compatible platforms, and automation capacities.
| Our score (out of 5) | Beginning worth | Supported platforms | Centralized administration | Automation | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | $287.00 per year for a package of five units? | Home windows, Linux, macOS | Sure | Scanning and deployments | |
| 4.8 | Customized quote | Home windows, Linux, macOS | Sure | Infrastructure Management: A Framework for Efficient Operations | |
| 4.6 | Free | Home windows, Linux, macOS | Sure | Continuous Integration and Delivery Pipeline: Scanning, Testing, Approval, Deployment, Reboot | |
| 4.4 | $2,274 per 12 months | Home windows | Sure | Scanning and deployments | |
| 4.2 | $16.42 per system for a 12-month period. | Home windows | Sure | Scanning | |
| 4.0 | Customized quote | Operating systems: Home Windows, macOS, Linux, and other devices. | Sure | Scanning, deployments, and compliance administration |
ESET Shield: Greatest total
ESET includes patch administration capabilities within various ESET Shield security software packages. Patch administration options leverage automated scanning and prioritization of vulnerabilities, as well as streamlined deployment of Windows, macOS, Linux, and third-party software updates.
Safety performance varies depending on the chosen plan package; nonetheless, every bundle includes a minimum of endpoint protection for workstations, servers, mobile devices, and cloud applications, as well as comprehensive full-disk encryption. You can transform your organization into a robust detection and response entity by developing a comprehensive and proactive managed detection and response (MDR) strategy, ensuring seamless and holistic security governance.
Why I selected ESET Shield
ESET offers a comprehensive endpoint security platform to businesses at an exceptionally affordable price point. While initial setup may pose some challenges, the Shield dashboard streamlines the process of managing updates across various applications and software tools with ease. This report provides real-time information on patch compliance and safety standing within your organization.
Pricing
ESET’s Patch Supervisor is a valuable component that accompanies three ESET Shield plans.
- Ensures comprehensive safety across endpoints, servers, cell systems, and more with top-tier features like full-disk encryption, robust threat protection, secure mail servers, and fortified cloud applications – all bundled at a promotional price of $287.72 per year for five units.
- Enhances prolonged detection, response, and multi-factor authentication; tailored solutions available upon request.
- Provides comprehensive managed detection, response, and premium assistance, with tailored pricing available upon request.
Options
- Instantaneous scanning for immediate insights.
- Severity-based prioritization of vulnerabilities.
- Automated and handbook patching.
- Streamlined monitoring of endpoint and vulnerability exposure across the organization.
- Enhancing corporate security protocols by leveraging a selected software bundle.
Professionals and cons
| Professionals | Cons |
|---|---|
| Up-to-date CVE administration. | Mastering preliminary configuration requires a substantial learning investment. |
| Ease of use. | |
| Extra security measures. |
NinjaOne: Greatest for inexperienced persons
NinjaOne’s Patch Administration module is a self-service tool that autonomously detects and applies software update packages to Windows, Linux, macOS, and third-party applications, streamlining the process of keeping systems up-to-date and secure. The advanced security solution autonomously reboots systems to seamlessly apply updates, while also generating automated alerts and notifications whenever vulnerabilities are identified or new software patches become available.
The NinjaOne dashboard features remote troubleshooting tools that empower teams to resolve patch setup issues and system crashes efficiently, eliminating the need for on-site support. One reason I didn’t award it a perfect score was that I encountered a few automation features that were slightly glitchy, which could prove frustrating for novices.
After conducting a thorough review of IT systems, I opted for NinjaOne Patch Administration to streamline our software updates and maintenance due to its ease of use, robust features, and seamless integration with our existing infrastructure. The intuitive interface enables efficient patch management, reducing the risk of system downtime and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
NinjaOne’s Patch Administration offers novice-friendly automation capabilities and remediation tools to simplify patch management for smaller, overworked IT teams. NinjaOne also offers comprehensive endpoint security and system management solutions for those seeking a complete answer.
Pricing
NinjaOne keeps its pricing information private, prompting prospective customers to inquire about tailored quotes. According to our company’s policy, the minimum expenditure per month is $180.
Options
- Streamlined Patch Management: Seamless Identification, Approval, and Deployment.
- Distant terminal, registry editor, and remote access tools, collectively referred to as remediation instruments.
- Pre-emptive patch approval.
- Automated reboots.
- Gaining real-time visibility into endpoint safety through granular, per-patch insights.
- Automated alerts and notifications.
- Patch exercise logs and reporting.
Professionals and cons
| Professionals | Cons |
|---|---|
| Accessible and user-friendly for individuals new to the concept. | Some options will be buggy. |
| Consists of extra remediation instruments. | Pricing isn’t clear. |
| Offers numerous automation. |
What’s your best free solution for patch management? ManageEngine’s Patch Supervisor Plus takes top honors with its comprehensive suite of features for detecting and remediating vulnerabilities.
ManageEngine’s Patch Supervisor Plus offers comprehensive patch management capabilities, available at no cost for up to 20 workstations and 5 servers. While other options on my report are exclusively cloud-based, ManageEngine’s software can be deployed both in the cloud and on-premises, catering to organizations requiring a hybrid approach.
Its paid options offer competitive pricing, with the Enterprise plan providing comprehensive updates for antivirus definitions, system drivers, BIOS, as well as automated patch testing, approvals, and bandwidth optimization. While ManageEngine brokers are relatively easy to deploy, their administration dashboard presents a challenge when it comes to configuration, with error codes that offer limited insight into potential issues.
Alternatively, the free model also includes buyer assistance to help resolve any setup issues.
I chose ManageEngine Patch Supervisor Plus because its robust patch management capabilities allowed me to streamline my IT infrastructure’s updates seamlessly, thereby ensuring optimal system performance and minimizing potential security risks. Its user-friendly interface enabled efficient monitoring and reporting of patch status, making it easier for me to track and troubleshoot any issues that may arise during the patching process.
ManageEngine offers a complimentary business-grade password manager, making it an attractive option for startups or companies with tight budgets. Reasonably priced paid plans offer enhanced system units and expanded patching capabilities, catering to those seeking additional features. A dedicated buyer assistance team stands ready to address any configuration-related concerns, providing swift support for seamless navigation.
Pricing
- Available free for up to 20 workstations and 5 servers.
- We offer a subscription package starting at $245 per year for on-premises installation, or $345 per year for cloud deployment, covering up to 50 machines and a single administrator account.
- Provides comprehensive cybersecurity solutions, including antivirus definition updates, driver and BIOS updates, computerized patch testing and approval, patch deployment scheduling, and bandwidth optimization, available on-premise for $345 per year or in the cloud for $445 per year, supporting up to 50 machines with a single admin login.
Options
- Available both on-premises and in a cloud-based environment.
- Service pack deployment.
- Third-party patch administration.
- Server software patch administration.
- Scheduled and on-demand studies.
- Multi-technician assist.
- Distant reboot.
- Two-factor authentication.
Professionals and cons
| Professionals | Cons |
|---|---|
| Brokers are straightforward to deploy. | Unhelpful error codes. |
| Available both on-premises and in the cloud. | Troublesome preliminary configuration. |
| Responsive assist. |
What’s driving Microsoft enterprise networks forward? SolarWinds Patch Supervisor takes top honors.
SolarWinds Patch Supervisor is a Windows-exclusive solution that seamlessly integrates with both Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) and Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager. While SolarWinds excels in patch administration, its comprehensive suite also offers a range of capabilities for asset management, network monitoring, and more. Its user-friendly interface is particularly well-suited for Windows administrators, featuring customizable patch logging capabilities that streamline compliance and government reporting efforts.
Unfortunately, a recent vulnerability in one of SolarWinds’ products has led to significant security concerns. The alleged breach of a software program was entirely unrelated to the functioning of the Patch Supervisor.
I leveraged SolarWinds Patch Supervisor to streamline my patch management process, allowing me to effortlessly identify and remediate vulnerabilities across my IT infrastructure. By consolidating multiple tools into one intuitive platform, I gained real-time visibility into patch status, automated reporting, and comprehensive compliance monitoring. With SolarWinds Patch Supervisor, I can ensure the reliability of my systems and networks by minimizing downtime and reducing the risk of exploited weaknesses.
SolarWinds offers exceptional patch management capabilities for Windows-centric organizations leveraging System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) to deploy and manage their applications seamlessly. While I found the interface user-friendly and easy to navigate, I was slightly underwhelmed by the software’s performance, given its premium pricing.
Pricing
- Starting at $2,274 for a 12-month term, a personalized quote is necessary.
Options
- Windows Server and Workstation Patch Administration: A Comprehensive Approach
- Integration with Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) and System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) seamlessly harmonizes software updates and device management.
Professionals and cons
| Professionals | Cons |
|---|---|
| Integrates with Microsoft patch administration. | Excessive worth. |
| Customizable studies. | Solely works with Microsoft environments. |
| Intuitive interface. | Following a notable cyberattack, SolarWinds faced significant repercussions. |
Avast Enterprise Patch Administration: A Top Choice for Small Businesses
Avast offers a standalone enterprise patch management solution as well as a patch manager within its Premium Enterprise Security package. The self-contained device offers flexible patch management capabilities, including customised deployment schedules, real-time rollbacks for faulty updates, and seamless error recovery. This functionality enables autonomous patch management, allowing administrators to push updates directly to a designated agent, which then disseminates the fixes to all connected devices within the network?
The comprehensive Final Enterprise Safety package includes cutting-edge endpoint, anti-ransomware, anti-phishing, data, USB, internet, and personal VPN protection services for seamless cybersecurity. Equipped with an intuitive dashboard, these features are poised to propel this answer to the top of the leaderboard. Despite this, I still gave Avast’s paid offerings a low score due to the company’s history of exploiting its free antivirus users.
As a security-conscious IT administrator, I opted for Avast Enterprise Patch Administration to streamline vulnerability remediation and maintain the integrity of my organization’s systems. With this solution, I can effortlessly manage patch updates across diverse endpoints, ensuring that all devices are protected from emerging threats and compliance regulations are met.
Avast provides an intuitively designed standalone solution for patch management, featuring automated scanning and scheduled deployment capabilities at an extremely affordable price point. Small companies seeking enhanced safety measures without compromising their financial stability can opt for a comprehensive solution that aligns with their budget constraints.
Pricing
- $16.42 per system for a 12-month period.
- Provides endpoint safety, ransomware & knowledge safety, phishing safety, internet safety, private VPN, and USB safety for $227.08 per 12 months for five units.
Options
- Versatile deployment schedules.
- Grasp agent capabilities.
- Customizable patches.
- Computerized scans.
- Reverse patching of defective software updates?
Professionals and cons
| Professionals | Cons |
|---|---|
| Inexpensive standalone patch supervisor. | Home windows solely. |
| Customizable patching guidelines and schedules. | The cybersecurity company Avast was slapped with a hefty fine for failing to disclose security vulnerabilities in its software to users, thereby depriving them of crucial information to protect themselves from potential attacks. |
| Intuitive dashboard. |
Heimdal Patch & Asset Administration: Greatest for multi-platform asset administration
Heimdal delivers a robust, enterprise-grade solution for patch and asset management, prioritizing security above all else. The platform provides comprehensive IT asset management capabilities for a wide range of devices, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and network routers. It excels in supporting large enterprises with diverse locations and numerous IT infrastructure components.
The solution provides expedited patching for newly released vulnerabilities, ensuring swift restriction of potential publicity exploits within a mere four hours. Heimdal Patch & Asset Administration additionally features a coverage and compliance administration dashboard to simplify regulatory necessities. Heimdal provides a comprehensive range of built-in enterprise security products, including DNS protection and a next-generation firewall.
Why I selected Heimdal Patch & Asset Administration
I selected Heimdal for its security-centric approach to patch administration, which harmonizes seamlessly with the robust IT asset management features required by enterprise environments operating in heavily regulated sectors such as healthcare and government contracting, where data confidentiality and compliance are paramount. This comprehensive solution offers a range of integrated security products to streamline your management experience.
Pricing
- No pricing data out there.
Options
- Customizable or automated patch schedules.
- Immediate 4-hour response to newly identified vulnerabilities, ensuring swift patch deployment.
- Coverage and compliance administration.
- IT asset administration.
Professionals and cons
| Professionals | Cons |
|---|---|
| Consists of asset administration. | Restricted third-party app assist. |
| Cross-platform assist. | Solely fundamental reporting. |
| Very quick patches. | As users’ interest in leveraging the digital landscape continues to grow, optimizing one’s learning approach to maximize the benefits of online resources becomes increasingly crucial. |
What are the key considerations for choosing a reliable and efficient patch management solution for your organization?
While each group’s needs differ, certain universal factors should be considered when choosing a patch management solution: It must align seamlessly with your existing operational procedures and organizational objectives. Their employees require the ability to seamlessly configure and utilize it with ease; it must align with their budget constraints while also providing robust security measures to safeguard against potential breaches.
As a result, ESET emerged as my top pick due to its striking balance among all these attributes. Notwithstanding, every choice on my record has both advantages and disadvantages that you will need to consider according to your specific requirements.
Methodology
I chose patch administration options that are widely utilized by numerous IT professionals I’ve worked with in the past, as well as those highly rated by users on platforms such as Reddit. Before committing, I explored free trials to experience features firsthand, while for others, I reviewed demos to visualize their capabilities. After conducting thorough research on each vendor, I meticulously evaluated their credibility and identified any notable security vulnerabilities or data breaches that could impact the integrity of our operations.
