15 Best Windows Patch Management Software / Tools / Servers
15 Best Windows Patch Management Software / Tools / Servers. When running critical IT infrastructure, you must always perform updates often. This ensures that software, hardware, and network devices running on their infrastructure gets updates and security updates on time. To achieve this, you need to perform a complete patching. Through patching, you are sure to minimize security risks and and maintain high performance.
To perform patching, you need a robust tool that performs all patch management procedures without a hitch. Luckily, there are lots of software tools designed to provide seamless system patching.
Well, shall we start with 15 Best Windows Patch Management Software / Tools / Servers?
What is Patch Management?
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First of all, patch management is the process of identifying and applying patches to applications, systems, and networks. It involves scanning devices, computers, and other machines on a network to identify gaps that require patching. After identifying gaps in your IT resources, you correct the errors by applying patches as soon as they become available. While applying patches is the ultimate goal, patch management is a step-by-step process that starts with identifying gaps to monitoring.
Understanding Windows Patch Management
Primarily speaking Windows patch management is the most popular form of patch management. It is the process of how IT administrators manage patches for Microsoft Windows. A patch is a code inserted (patched) by a user into the code of an existing software. Specifically, it is a short term solution until a new complete software release is available.
Windows automatic update is a Microsoft service for Windows OS that automatically downloads Windows software updates. Not only does Windows Update deliver software updates, but also numerous Microsoft antivirus products. Although Microsoft tries to release security patches quickly, productivity and stability can be negatively affected when administrators apply these security patches too frequently to production level servers.
Patch Tuesday enables system administrators to prepare for possible effects patch applications might have and notify their users. When users report a severe issue with a patch, it impacts the computers that installs the update. IT administrators postpones installing a particular patch while still installing the rest to remain secure from other vulnerabilities.
Updates that combine all the current fixes into one patch provide administrators with the convenience of an all-in-one solution. However, they also deny them the ability to choose which vulnerabilities to patch. This may raise the chances that an incompatibility with specific software or other system configuration might cause the update to misbehave or ultimately fail. Microsoft employs the cumulative roll up concept approach for their security updates, Edge web browsers, and Internet Explorer.
How Does Patch Management Work?
It is important to understand with 15 Best Windows Patch Management Software / Tools / Servers how does the patch management work? The procedure used by organizations for patch management varies depending on each company’s information system. Most organizations with extensive infrastructure use automatic patch management systems. By automating patch management, they reduce manual tasks, speed up their update process, and accomplish all these tasks remotely.
Simply put, an automatic patch management system involves administrators installing a client agent that enables administrators to manage the distribution of patches from a web based interface. In turn, this kind of system lets IT admins generate log reports, configure settings for patch distribution, and monitor the status of patches.
Why Patch Management is Essential
Importantly, patch management is essential for the following reasons:
Security
Firstly, patch management resolves vulnerabilities in users’ applications and software susceptible to cyber attacks, aiding organizations in reducing their security risk.
System uptime
Secondly, patch management ensures users’ applications and software run smoothly and are kept up-to-date, supporting system uptime.
Compliance
With the continued increase in cybercrime, regulatory bodies generally require organizations to keep o a certain level of compliance. Generally, patch management is an essential component of organizations adhering to compliance standards.
Feature Improvements
Also, patch management extends beyond software bug fixes to include feature/functionality updates. Patches ensure users have the latest and best product features.
We came to the main part of the article 15 Best Windows Patch Management Software / Tools / Servers.
Best Patch Management Software/Tools/Servers
Having the best patch management solutions ensures that you keep up with security patches on your IT resources. Straightaway, patch management solutions include software, servers, and open-source tools. Below are some of the best patch management solutions to help you manage patches on IT resources. These tools provide various capabilities, such as automatic patch deployment, vulnerability scanning, cross-platform support, support, and reporting. These are:
1. Microsoft Intune
Microsft developed Microsoft Intune as a part of its Enterprise Mobility and Security Suite (EMS). Intune is an application management and mobile device solution that delivers Software updates to Windows mobile devices. In addition, Intune also enables IT, administrators to control Windows updates for Business configuration on each network endpoint.
Windows Update for Business is the update configuration developers built into Windows OS. Intune is not only available as part of Microsoft 365 licenses: Government, F3, E3, E5, and Business Premium, but also as a standalone Azure service. Hence, intune provides granular update settings that allow you to schedule and defer update installations across your networks.
Administrators can stop the installation of specific features from current Windows versions. This selective installation ensures specific devices are running smoothly while simultaneously rolling out security updates. Your IT team can monitor and control software updates and your patches from within Intune, and to assist with this, Intune provides a robust reporting functionality.
Intune generates reports about current and existing vulnerabilities, including rollbacks and failed updates.
When deployed in the cloud, Intune is a very scalable solution. Since it’s owned by Microsoft it integrates smoothly with all Microsoft applications and Windows Operating Systems. Intune is a robust patch management tool for organizations that want to deploy software updates across their BYOD and corporate-issued mobile endpoints running on Windows OS.
Pros of Microsoft Intune
- Cloud native application that’s highly scalable
- Intune has robust mobile device management (MDM) functionality.
- The tool is excellent, with more minor, lightweight applications on Windows mobile devices.
- Intune provides auto provisioning of systems.
Cons of Microsoft Intune
- Partial system management platform and only focuses on mobile devices.
- Does not support server-side applications.
2. Heimdal Patch and Asset Management
Second on our list of 15 Best Windows Patch Management Software / Tools / Servers is Heimdal Patch and Asset Management. Full feature patch management platform. Allows organizations to patch and deploy software smoothly across their networks. With Heimdal, it achieves this through a state-of-the-art, cloud native administrator console that offers control and visibility across all software inventories. Additionally, the platform supports patch management and deployment for any Linux, Microsoft, custom made and third party software.
Heimdal Patch and Asset Management enable your organization to monitor, update and manage its software from any location in the world. The platform’s capabilities ensure all software is up-to-date, compliant, and secure against vulnerabilities. The platform is automatic, ensuring that software is updated as soon as the patches become available and saving IT admins time and cost.
The platform’s main features include comprehensive reporting advanced patch scheduler that enables admins to force reboots and update patches on demand. Subsequently, Heimdal has a modern user interface with granular policy controls that offer admins privilege management and software management capabilities.
This solution is a comprehensive platform that enables clients to manage software updates and ensure their endpoint devices are secure. Highly customizable with a modern, clean user interface that allows simple configuration of reports, policies, and patch scheduling. One feature that sets this solution apart is its ability to manage patches on Linux and Microsoft under the same admin console.
Surely, Heimdal also provides automatic patch management for more than 120 customized and third party applications. Clients praise this platform for its simplicity, customizability, and ease of use. Most clients point out how straightforward it is for IT administrators, saving both money and time. Great solution for organizations of any size searching for a highly customizable, comprehensive patch management solution focusing on ease of use and granular functionality.
Pros of Heimdal Patch and Asset Management
- Very stable framework with robust patch management features.
- The tool provides users with consistent patching with great features and controls.
- The platform has good customer support and after sale services.
- The software is very intuitive and requires minimal user input.
Cons of Heimdal Patch and Asset Management
- Does not have a device discovery option, so the user has to be able to get the physical device to install the software.
- The reporting feature is not consistent enough and show errors inside a large time frame
3. Atera
Atera is a patch management solution that provides support technologies and remote access for IT service providers and MSPs. The platform provides remote monitoring and management (RMM), reporting, remote support, and professional service automation (PSA). Use Atera to simplify the process of scanning devices for vulnerabilities and ensure their network endpoints are up to date.
With Atera, you automate system reboots, update checks, and system scans. This tool monitors client network endpoints in real time and notifies you of any bugs or vulnerabilities as soon as it identifies them. You can also use Atera’s robust automation capabilities to automate patch management for software, hardware, and operating systems. Additionally, you use Atera to configure different settings for independent devices and device groups to secure network endpoints without depending on end users to run updates.
Thereafter Atera, allows you to install and uninstall applications remotely as per requirement. Moreover, Atera provides a strong reporting functionality that lets IT teams view their systems entirely. Atera’s reporting capabilities include a Patch Status Summary that displays a complete overview of patch management, such as a list of all missing patches, and a Patch and Automation Feedback report, which alerts you in case updates weren’t successful.
This tool also integrates smoothly with several third-party applications, like Chocolatey. This allows you to automate Windows and Mac updates for popular software such as Java, Chrome, Zoom, and Dropbox. This platform has a user friendly interface and remote support abilities via the mobile application. This makes it a powerful solution for small to medium-sized MSPs and IT service providers who want to simplify and automate their patch management processes.
Pros of Atera
- Simple patch management process ideal for non technical users.
- Use Atera to monitor IT resources remotely.
- Allows MSPs to focus on other crucial aspects rather than managing software.
- Sends warnings when some devices are offline.
- Has a fast mobile support.
Cons of Atera
- Limited mobile device management.
- Difficult applying configurations.
- The reporting feature is prone to failures.
4. WSUS
Image Source: Microsoft.com
Following software solution of 15 Best Windows Patch Management Software / Tools / Servers is WSUS. Microsoft software application, that enables your IT team to manage the distribution of patches and updates for Microsoft software products to the devices in your network. WSUS scans the current system and identifies the system’s needed updates. It also helps users to manage the downloads within a corporate environment.
Numerous Microsoft products support the platform, and within Microsoft Windows Server 2012, it integrates with the operating system as a server role. Thus, WSUS is useful for SMBs as it is an intermediary between the Windows update for individual PCs and the more advanced Systems Management Server. WSUS provides definition updates, critical updates, drivers, security updates, feature packs, tools, service packs, regular enhancements, and update roll ups.
WSUS’s group policy enables IT admins to direct the workstations in their network that connect to the WSUS server and limit the end users’ access to Windows Updates. This gives the admins total control over the network. BITS helps to enable automatic download as well as optimize bandwidth usage. Undeniably, WSUS uses Internet Information Servers, Microsoft Management Console, and .NET Framework.
Pros of WSUS
- Manages hundreds of computers at the same time.
- Saves on network bandwidth by only downloading updates once.
- Contains many control and reporting features.
- It offers users stability and dependability.
Cons of WSUS
- Needs a minimum of 4GB RAM to run.
- Only available on Windows Server.
5. Chocolatey for Business
Chocolatey is a software management platform that allows organizations and individuals to manage their Windows software environments effectively. It enables you to improve network security and save on resources. Chocolatey is primarily a package manager: it allows your IT teams to manage all software deployment, removals, and updates across your Windows networks.
Undoubtedly, Chocolatey achieves this through a single interface instead of monitoring each process individually. It combines each software part, including executables, installers, scripts, and zips, into one package file. This process makes it easier for you to manage your environments. Using Chocolatey, admins can automate application and software updates or manually update, uninstall and reinstall individual apps within the management portal.
What is more, Chocolatey provides a variety of integrations, such as third party management solutions like Ivanti and Connectwise Automate. These integrations enable users to sync vulnerability data and effectively identify risks inside an environment.
Software is compatible with multiple Windows environments, from Windows Server 2003 and Windows 7 to the latest operating systems. It also supports cloud environments such as AWS and Azure and runs on Docker Windows container and Windows Server Core. Most customers choose Chocolatey for its simple software deployment functionality.
Pros of Chocolatey for Business
- Enables users to install software from the command shell.
- Makes it easy for users to update installed software.
- Users can catalogue all available software.
- Chocolatey has a very stable framework.
Cons of Chacolatey for Business
- Has a steep learning curve and challenging configurations.
- Users require admin privileges to install all software on Chocolatey.
- Requires a certain level of experience with PowerShell scripting.
6. GFI LanGuard
GFI LanGuard is an IT service provider that offers a variety of solutions, including network, email, and web security. It is a patch management, vulnerability, and auditing scanning solution. These solutions provide your organizations with improved visibility into the state of your network endpoints while also assisting you in detecting and patching vulnerabilities.
GFI LanGuard checks each network endpoint for vulnerabilities through its vulnerability assessment database. The GFI assessment database receives data updates from CVE, OVAL, SANS Corporation, BugTrack, and new Microsoft updates. This data allows GFI to identify both zero-day and known vulnerabilities. It classifies vulnerabilities according to severity and type before GFI suggests a course of action to solve the threat. The admins can obtain a central view of each scanned device’s historical and current vulnerability status from the web based reporting console.
With GFI, admins generate reports on demand or scheduled and export them to the most popular formats. This helps ensure that organizations comply with regulations and makes sharing reports with important decision makers simpler.
GFI LanGuard is compatible with Linux, Microsoft, IOS, and macOS operating systems. GFI also provides patch management for web browsers and third party applications on Windows systems. The platform integrates with over 4000 security apps, such as email security products and endpoints, allowing IT admins to sync threat data more efficiently. GFI LanGuard is a powerful solution for small to medium-sized enterprises who want to automate their patch management processes.
Pros of GFI LanGuard
- Has an up-to-date list of external applications that lets users know when an update is available.
- GFI has a robust vulnerability assessment functionality.
- Gives users a comprehensive range of patching solutions.
- The platform offers integration with multiple operating systems.
Cons of GFI LanGuard
- GFI LanGuard has problems with its rollback feature.
- The patch management tool lacks an asset tracking functionality.
7. SCCM
System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM), currently Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager, is a software product from Microsoft Windows. SCCM enables IT teams, to deploy, manage, and secure devices and applications in an organization. Administrators usually use SCCM for patching, distributing software in bulk, endpoint protection, and other possible use cases.
Unquestionably, SCCM was a division of the Microsoft Systems Center product suite but is currently a division of Endpoint Manager. System Center Configuration Manager depends on a single infrastructure to consolidate virtual and physical machines. It also offers admins tools that help them with access control.
SCCM identifies mobile devices, desktops, and servers that link to a network via Microsoft Active Directory (AD) to accomplish this. After identification, it installs the necessary applications on each client. It then manages app deployments and updates for groups or individuals.
This process enables Network Access Protection for Windows Server Update Services and policy enforcement. Microsoft’s SCCM also works as a system manager that allows supervisors to manage the security and deployment of devices and applications across the organization.
Pros of SCCM
- Safeguards network endpoints.
- The platform is designed to improve user productivity.
- It provides users with insights into assets.
- Speeds up reporting.
Cons of SCCM
- Limited support for non-windows devices.
- Has limited support for third party app patches.
8. ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus
Another tool of 15 Best Windows Patch Management Software / Tools / Servers is ManageEngine. is a patch management solution that is a part of the Zoho corporation. It provides comprehensive IT management solutions that assist organizations in integrating and optimizing their IT processes, from helpdesk operations to device management.
Patch Manager Plus checks all endpoints to identify vulnerabilities and then deploys the necessary third-party apps and operating system patches from its repository. Before deploying the patches, Patch Manager Plus tests each to ensure all devices are secure. Your IT admins can generate reports on security posture across all of your endpoints from the management dashboard. IT technicians can use these reports to track patching and prove compliance using data protection standards.
Patch Manager Plus is compatible with macOS, Linux, and Windows operating systems. The platform also supports updates for more than 500 third-party applications, as well as patching for more than 900 third-party applications. The solution is available on the cloud and on premises. This availability means it is flexible enough to fit any infrastructure, no matter the organization’s state of cloud migration.
Pros of ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus
- The platform tests all patches before they reach the user.
- You don’t need to maintain hardware since the solution is on the cloud.
- ManageEngine’s features are both reliable and stable.
- The tool is highly flexible and adapts to fit your network environment.
Cons of ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus
- The platform has some issues with its reporting functionality.
- Patch Manager Plus does not provide prior information about client version updates.
9. Ninja Patch Management
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Another tool on our list of 15 Best Windows Patch Management Software / Tools / Servers is NinjaOne. Formerly NinjaRMM, is an IT operation provider focusing on remote monitoring and management, IT support operations, and system backups. Ninja Patch Management is a patch management and vulnerability scanning solution that provides managed service providers and IT teams better visibility into their network endpoint security and enables them to automate patching across endpoints.
You can use Ninja Patch Management to automate your patch management workflows to ensure your endpoints are secured. Ninja’s patching engine and built-in tools for software removal, blacklisting, and deployment ensure that operating systems and common workplace apps are up to date. This helps to reduce app-related vulnerabilities. Ninja also provides endpoint performance and health monitoring and alerting, allowing IT administrators to quickly identify and solve potential problems.
The platforms provide a wide range of integrations with endpoint security, analytics, and remote access solutions. This helps IT teams get a unified, comprehensive view of threat data.
So, Ninja Patch Management is cloud native, compatible with Linux, Windows, and macOS, and supports patching for more than 135 third-party apps. IT teams can use Ninja to patch all network endpoints without a connection to the company network or a VPN. Ninja is a robust solution for small to mid-market organizations and MSPs. Ninja is great for organizations in the education or government sector searching for an intuitive patch management solution that can be managed with a small IT department.
Pros of Ninja Patch Management
- Generates custom scripts that users can run on devices remotely.
- Functions well as a troubleshooting tool.
- Easy to configure.
- The platform improves visibility into the overall performance of PCs and servers.
Ninja Patch Management
- NinjaOne distribution server is highly dependent on active directories.
- NinjaOne does not integrate with many antivirus solutions.
10. Syxsense Manage
Syxsense is a cloud native security and endpoint platform that assists midsize to larger organizations secure and manage their PC servers and mobile, IOT, and virtual machines that are part of their network. Combines patch deployment, endpoint management, and vulnerability scanning into a single solution. This helps your enterprise to line up its cybersecurity strategy with its core IT processes.
Your IT teams can use Syxsense Manage to automate patch deployment across all the devices that are a part of your network through a single holistic platform. The solution notifies you exactly when each device should receive a patch to help reduce interruptions to productivity. Syxsense Manage comes with a device Health feature that can scan devices for vulnerabilities and categorize the seriousness of each vulnerability as per the CVSS score of the missing patch. This feature enables your IT staff to identify and swiftly mitigate any gaps in your network.
The platform also offers you a comprehensive reporting feature with granular filtering options. This option provides your IT teams with in-depth insights into all your network endpoints’ security status and ensures your business complies with data protection regulations.
Syxsense Manage resides on the cloud in Microsoft Azure. The solution is compatible with laptops, desktops, and servers, providing cross-platform support for Mac, Linux, and windows operating systems. Additionally supports updates for third-party apps such as Java, Chrome, and Adobe, together with Windows 10 Feature Updates.
Pros of Syxsense Manage
- Syxsense supports automatic remediation.
- Users can install Syxsense on Linux, Windows, or Mac.
- The platform provides an auto discovery feature that lets you find new network machines.
- Syxsense Manage has a health and performance monitoring functionality.
Cons of Syxense Manage
- Does not support multiple file transfers.
- Advanced features are not well documented.
11. Automox
Image Source: Capterra.co.uk
Automox is a patch management automation platform that assists your organization in unifying and centralizing its patch management and vulnerability processes. The comprehensive platform has a cloud-native architecture that protects remote, on-premises, and hybrid endpoints. Automox secures all types of endpoints against malware threats regardless of the operating system the user is running.
Automox enables you to automate patch management workflows to ensure your third-party applications and endpoints are consistently secured. It provides cross-platform support for virtue and physical endpoints running on macOS, Linux, and Windows operating systems, all of which you can control from a single console. This allows your IT team to efficiently detect missing patches and misconfigured systems to reduce the possibility of exploitation.
You can also manage their server, client, cloud, container, and virtual machine configuration from within Automox without a VPN. Automox’s cloud native infrastructure makes it easy to use and allows IT admins to manage network endpoints remotely without a VPN. The platform integrates seamlessly with vulnerability detection solutions like Rapid7, Tenable, and Crowdstrike. This integration helps Automox to sync vulnerability data and allows IT, technicians to fix the identified threats.
Pros of Automox
- Extremely easy to use.
- Outstanding graphical representation of data.
- The platform does well in reporting and policy enforcement.
- Flexible as it allows users to defer updates multiple times.
Cons of Automox
- Has a challenging onboarding process due to its steep learning curve.
12. Ivanti
Ivanti, formerly known LANDESK and HEAT Software, is an IT security and management provider focused on products that consolidate and unify IT processes. It has a range of patch management solutions. Ivanti’s patch management solutions include “Patch for MEM,” “Patch for Unix, Linux, and Mac, and “Patch for Endpoint Manager.” It supports a wide array of third-party apps, like internet browsers, Java, and the Microsoft 365 Suite, as well as supporting operating systems across remote virtual and physical devices.
Use Ivanti to automatically distribute patches across your environment – like mobile and remote endpoints – with minimal effect on the end users. Every patch is tested before release to ensure security and compliance. Ivanti’s remote patching allows IT admins to patch devices that are asleep and remote workers’ devices. This process ensures that all systems are secure and up-to-date. Manage your software updates from the management console.
Patch for MEM provides a native plugin that lets admins configure all patches through the configuration manager and Intune. Patch for Endpoint Manager incorporates Ivanti’s unified endpoint management solution to identify vulnerabilities. After identification, Ivanti automatically implements patches across the most common operating systems and third-party applications.
Ivanti’s patch management solutions are suitable for medium-sized organizations searching for comprehensive vulnerability management.
Pros of Ivanti
- Ivanti has a very user friendly interface.
- Platform offers support for multiple operating systems.
- Contains a powerful patch module feature.
- Provides its users with robust product distribution functionality.
Cons of Ivanti
- Ivanti does not provide compliance-level reports about the patching.
- The platform has poor integration with other cloud solutions.
13. SuperOps RMM Patch Management
Image Source: Superops.ai
SuperOps is an AI based patch management solution that applies patches to windows systems intelligently. It includes many automatic processes, but users can modify or create new automated procedures using the platform’s scripting language. The basis of this patch management solution is the Asset Management module within the SuperOps platform. This module identifies each laptop and desktop that links to the monitored network.
It then scans through the devices that are running the Windows OS and records their software, generating an inventory. The patch management solution constantly checks with the software suppliers under management for updates and patches.
Pros of SuperOps RMM Patch Management
- SuperOps is highly customizable.
- It is an excellent option for MSPs and big in-house teams.
- Hybrid RMM/PSA solution.
- Highly scalable cloud based solution.
Cons of SuperOps RMM Patch Management
- Relative expensive compared to similar cloud based patch management tools.
- It requires a lot of user input during configuration.
14. N-sight RMM
Image Source: N-able.com
N-sight RMM is a cloud native platform features all the tools that a central IT team or MSP requires to manage software on multiple sites. The tool is completely automatic, but it also allows for modification in the approval automated rollout procedure to enable admins to block individual patches in a batch.
With auto discovery service, it detects each device that connects to the network and generates a software inventory for all of them. This inventory includes the software running on each device and version numbers for the OS.
Pros of N-able N-sight
- Highly scalable cloud-native platform.
- Has very affordable pricing compared to similar patch management software.
- The platform provides a lot of white label products.
- It integrates smoothly with N-able RMM.
Cons of N-able N-sight
- The software has a complicated user interface.
- The system sometimes generates incomplete reporting details in some modules.
15. Shavlik
Image Source: Ivanti.com
Last on the list of 15 Best Windows Patch Management Software / Tools / Servers is Shavlik. Software offers two patch management solutions: Shavlik Patch and Shavlik protect+Empower. A full patch management platform that provides agentless patching, third-party and OS app patching, and much more.
Shavlik Patch maximizes users’ investments within SCCM by including third-party patching with native add-ons to SCCM. It minimizes the risk posed by unpatched third party apps.
Pros of Shavlik
- Shavlik is highly flexible and easy to use.
- Supports several operating systems.
- The platform provides a variety of options to streamline the patching process.
- Shavlik protects agentless and agent features.
Cons of Shavlik
- It takes time to explore all features thoroughly.
- The tool has a complex user interface.
Thank you for reading 15 Best Windows Patch Management Software / Tools / Servers. We shall conclude this article.
15 Best Windows Patch Management Software / Tools / Servers Conclusion
Summing up, patch management tools above deliver a robust experience, providing IT admins, and MSPs total control over the deployment of updates to operating systems and third-party apps on network endpoints. With the right patch management solution, admins and MSPs can conveniently automate the patch management process. All you need is a patch management tool suitable for your windows system, and you are good to go.
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