Nearly every company relies on a variety of software applications to keep its operations running smoothly. From the operating system of your computers to the CRM used by your sales staff, these applications are essential for businesses to function — but they also make up a major attack vector for hackers.

Without regular patching and updates, these applications become vulnerable to exploitation by malicious actors. Outdated software versions have known vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit, allowing them to access sensitive data or even gain control over the system. 

And it’s a popular hacking method, with recent studies finding 18% of all network vulnerabilities being traced to unpatched software.

This makes patching applications a critical security measure for any organization. Companies can prevent malicious actors from exploiting outdated versions of their software by regularly scanning every machine and applying patches promptly. And when done correctly, patching can be a relatively painless process.

What Is A Patch?

“Patching” refers to a process by which developers fix known application vulnerabilities. When a new security issue is discovered, the developer will release a patch that addresses the issue and prevents it from being exploited. These updates can be applied manually or – as they are often designed – automatically with software updates.

In most cases, applying the patch as soon as possible after its release is best. Waiting too long can leave your systems vulnerable for longer periods, making them more attractive targets for malicious actors – especially once the vulnerability is made public.

Yet far too many companies fail to patch their applications frequently enough. Whether they feel that their systems are secure enough or simply don’t prioritize the process, leaving unpatched applications can leave their company vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

The Risks of Unpatched Applications

When it comes to cyber security, the old adage is true: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Failing to patch software leaves your systems open to attack, allowing malicious actors to exploit known vulnerabilities.

Here are some of the risks you run when you allow unpatched applications to linger in your network:

Data breaches: Unpatched applications leave your system vulnerable to data breaches. Hackers can gain access to sensitive customer or financial information, putting your company at risk of legal action and reputational damage.

Denial-of-service attacks: Hackers can use unpatched applications to launch denial-of-service attacks against your systems, overwhelming your servers with traffic and making them inaccessible to legitimate users.

Malware infections: Malicious actors can use unpatched applications as a vector for malware, allowing them to remotely control the affected machine and access its data.

By patching applications regularly and keeping up with updates, businesses can prevent these risks and keep their systems safe.

Best Practices for Application Patching

Staying on top of patching is critical to keeping your system secure. Here are some tips to help you effectively manage application patching:

1. Automate wherever possible: Instead of manually applying patches and updates, businesses should set up automated update processes that detect new patches and apply them as soon as possible.
2. Scan regularly: Companies should scan each machine regularly to ensure that all applications are up-to-date, patched, and secure.
3. Educate your staff: Employees should be trained to understand the importance of patching applications and the risks associated with not doing so.
4. Stay updated on vulnerabilities: Organizations should monitor industry news and security advisories to stay abreast of the latest threats. This will help them determine which patches should be applied first.

Don’t Leave Yourself Vulnerable

Patching applications is an essential security measure for any organization. By scanning machines regularly and applying patches in a timely manner, businesses can prevent malicious actors from exploiting outdated versions of their software. 

And when you combine this with employee education and an awareness of the latest threats, you create a robust security posture that can protect your company from cyber-attacks.

Effective patching is essential to keeping your network secure, so ensure you’re staying on top of it! At CSP we work to scan each and every device regularly to ensure all applications are up-to-date and secure.

By maintaining a proactive approach to patching, you can help protect your company from malicious actors and data breaches. 

Regards, 

Your CSP Team.