Why Patching Matters in the Cyber security world

In the current digital-first world, organizations depend heavily on ever evolving IT systems to operate, innovate, and compete. With this increased dependency comes a growing important responsibility of maintaining the security and resilience of these systems. One of the most fundamental but often overlooked ways to do that is through regular patching.

Patching is not just another onerous IT task, it’s a one of the most important frontline defences against catastrophic security breaches, downtime, data loss, and reputational damage.

So what is patching is and why it’s essential How keeping your systems and software up to date can mean the difference between a thriving business and disaster.

What Is Patching?

A patch is a piece of software code designed to update, fix, or improve an existing program. These patches can:

• Fix known security vulnerabilities
• Improve functionality or performance
• Address bugs and system instability
• Ensure compatibility with other systems or standards

Patches are released by almost all software vendors, some of which being Microsoft, Apple, Oracle, and many others in response to newly discovered issues or threats. If these patches are not routinely installed and kept UpToDate systems will be exposed and allow threat actors a way in.

The Hidden Costs of Neglect

1. Security Vulnerabilities
The most immediate risk of not patching is leaving security holes unaddressed. Cybercriminals are quick to exploit known vulnerabilities often within hours of public disclosure. This practice, known as zero-day exploitation, can lead to ransomware attacks, data breaches, and espionage.

Case in Point:
The infamous Equifax breach in 2017, which exposed the personal data of over 147 million people, was caused by an unpatched Apache Struts vulnerability a patch that had been available for months.

2. Compliance and Legal Risks
Regulatory frameworks like GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS require organizations to apply security patches promptly. Failure to comply can lead to severe financial penalties and legal action.

3. Operational Downtime
Unpatched systems are more prone to crashes and failures. When critical infrastructure fails, the costs in terms of lost productivity, customer trust, and recovery efforts can be devastating.

4. Reputation Damage
Even a minor incident caused by poor patch management can spiral into a public relations nightmare, especially if customer data is compromised. Rebuilding trust is often harder and more expensive than preventing the breach in the first place.

Building a Proactive Patching Strategy

1. Inventory and Visibility
You can’t protect what you can’t see. Begin with a complete inventory of your hardware and software assets. Automated tools can help detect outdated systems and track patch statuses in real-time.

2. Prioritize Risks
Not all patches are equal. Focus first on critical security patches, especially those rated high-risk or actively exploited. Use risk-based prioritization to align your patching schedule with business impact.

3. Test Before You Deploy
Apply patches in a staged environment before rolling them out company wide. This helps avoid unforeseen compatibility issues or disruptions to key business functions.

4. Automate Where Possible
Leverage automated patch management tools to streamline the process. Automation reduces the risk of human error, speeds up deployments, and helps maintain compliance.

5. Monitor and Audit
Regularly audit your patching practices. Use reports and dashboards to monitor patch status, success rates, and exceptions, and to demonstrate due diligence for compliance.

Beyond Patching: Creating a Culture of Cyber Hygiene

While patching is a technical process, it’s also part of a broader cultural commitment to cybersecurity. Empower teams with the tools, training, and accountability to stay proactive. Consider patching as not just a task for IT, but a vital piece of your overall risk management strategy.

Conclusion: A Small Effort, a Huge Impact
Patching may seem like a routine IT chore, but it plays a pivotal role in shielding your organization from cyber threats, operational downtime, and reputational harm. Regular patch management is one of the simplest, most cost-effective ways to future-proof your IT estate.

Although patching can be an odours and continuous IT task, it is essential for protecting your organization from the kind of cyber threats that will cause operational downtime, and reputational damage. Regular patch management is a straightforward and cost-effective method to maintain the security and protect your network.

Think of it this way: you don’t wait until your house your house has been burgled to fit the locks and alarm, the same logic applies. Patch early. Patch often. Stay secure.

Need help developing a robust patch management strategy? Our team can help you audit your IT estate and implement a patching process that fits your operations. Contact us today.