Best Patch Management Software for 2025

What is Patch Management?

Patch management is the process of identifying, testing, and deploying vendor issued software updates to close security vulnerabilities and ensure the performance of devices and software application. It is part of Vulnerability Management process. 

• Vulnerability Assessment: It involves identifying and prioritizing vulnerabilities in software applications, OS, and other IT assets.
• Patch Testing: Before deploying patches, thorough testing is crucial to ensure they do not introduce new problems or disrupt critical services.
• Patch Deployment: Automated deployment of patches to all relevant systems and devices in a timely and controlled manner.
• Vulnerability Reporting: Regular reporting on the status of vulnerabilities, patch deployment progress, and any compliance issues.

For further information on Patch Management, please refer to the dedicated What is Patch Management  article. 

Important Features of Patch Management Software

• Vulnerability Scanning: Automated scanning of systems and applications to identify and prioritize vulnerabilities.
• Patch Catalog: Comprehensive catalog of available patches for various software and operating systems.
• Automated Patch Deployment: Schedule and automate patch deployment to endpoints, servers, and other devices.
• Patch Testing: Capabilities for testing patches in a controlled environment before deploying them to production systems.
• Compliance Reporting: Generate reports on patch compliance levels to meet industry standards and regulatory requirements.
• Remediation: Automated remediation of vulnerabilities through patch deployment, configuration changes, and other methods.
• Reporting and Analytics: Detailed reports on vulnerability trends, patch deployment progress, and security posture.
• Integration: Integration with other security tools, such as antivirus, intrusion detection systems, and security information and event management (SIEM) systems.

Vendor Comparisons

Here are comparisons of some leading patch management software vendors:

1. Microsoft Intune Endpoint Manager

Microsoft Endpoint Manager  is a comprehensive platform for managing and securing endpoints across various operating systems and devices (Laptops, Desktops, Servers, Mobile Devices etc). One of the key features of the Intune product is patch management. Please find the crucial features.

Key Features

• Software Updates:

  • Windows Updates: Seamlessly manage Windows updates, including feature updates, quality updates, and driver updates.
  • Third-Party Software Updates: Supports patching for a wide range of third-party applications, including popular software like Adobe Acrobat, Java, and antivirus.
  • Patch Assessment: Scan devices for missing patches and vulnerabilities.
  • Vulnerability Remediation: Automatically remediate vulnerabilities with approved patches.

• Deployment Options:

  • Scheduled Deployments: Create schedules for automatic patch deployment during off-peak hours to minimize disruptions.
  • Pilot Deployments: Test patches on a small group of devices before deploying them to the entire organization.
  • User-Initiated Deployments: Allow users to initiate patch installations on their own devices.

• Reporting and Compliance:

  • Detailed Reports: Generate comprehensive reports on patch compliance, including patch installation status, failed installations, and device-specific information.
  • Compliance Dashboards: Monitor patch compliance across the organization and identify devices that require attention.
  • Remediation Guidance: Provides guidance on resolving patch installation issues.

Pros

• Centralized Control: Manage patches across diverse endpoints (Windows, macOS, Linux, mobile) from a single console.
• Automation: Automate patch deployment, reducing administrative overhead.
• Targeted Patching: Deploy patches to specific groups based on criteria like device type, OS version, and user groups.
• Compliance Reporting: Track patch compliance and identify non-compliant devices.
• Integration: Seamlessly integrates with other Microsoft services (Azure AD, Intune).

Cons

• Complexity: Can be complex to configure and manage, especially in large, heterogeneous environments.
• Cost: Can be expensive, with licensing fees, hardware requirements, and maintenance costs.
• Limited Third-Party Software Support: Support for third-party software may be limited compared to specialized patch management solutions.
• Dependency on Microsoft Infrastructure: Relies heavily on Microsoft infrastructure.
• SMB: Not ideal solution for small and medium business. 

Why Choose: Best suited for organizations heavily invested in the Microsoft ecosystem.

Organizations with complex IT environments and limited in-house expertise may find it challenging to manage MEM effectively. In such cases, it may be beneficial to consider specialized patch management solutions.

2. Ivanti

Ivanti Patch for Endpoint Manager is a comprehensive patch management solution designed to help organizations secure their endpoints by automating the patching process and ensuring that all devices are up-to-date with the latest security updates.

Key Features

• Vulnerability Detection and Remediation:
  
  • Automatically detects and prioritizes vulnerabilities across a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, AIX, CentOS, and HP-UX.
  • Quickly remediates vulnerabilities with the latest security patches.
• Third-Party Application Patching:
  
  • Supports patching for a broad range of third-party applications, including Adobe, Java, and antivirus software.
  • Streamlines the process of patching critical applications to minimize security risks.
• Automated Patch Deployment:
  
  • Automates the entire patch lifecycle, from discovery and assessment to deployment and reporting.
  • Supports various deployment methods, including scheduled deployments, pilot deployments, and user-initiated deployments.
• Distributed and Remote Patching:
  
  • Effectively manages and patches devices distributed across a network, including remote locations.
  • Optimizes patch delivery by distributing and pre-caching patches across the network for faster deployment.
• Risk-Based Prioritization:
  
  • Prioritizes critical patches based on risk levels, ensuring that the most critical vulnerabilities are addressed first.
  • Helps organizations focus on the most critical security threats.
• Compliance Reporting:
  
  • Generates detailed reports on patch compliance, deployment success rates, and identified vulnerabilities.
  • Provides valuable insights into the security posture of the organization and helps demonstrate compliance with industry regulations and security standards.

Pros

• Comprehensive Coverage: Supports a wide range of operating systems and third-party applications.
• Strong Automation: Automates many aspects of the patch management process, saving significant time and resources.
• Risk-Based Approach: Prioritizes critical patches based on risk levels, ensuring the most critical vulnerabilities are addressed first.
• Excellent Third-Party Application Support: Effectively manages patches for a wide range of third-party applications.
• Robust Reporting and Analytics: Provides detailed reports and dashboards for in-depth analysis of patch compliance and security posture.
• Improved Security Posture: Helps organizations significantly improve their overall security posture by proactively identifying and remediating vulnerabilities.

Cons

• Complexity: Can be complex to configure and manage in large and complex environments.
• Cost: Can be expensive, especially for larger organizations with many endpoints.
• Resource Intensive: Requires dedicated resources for implementation, maintenance, and ongoing administration.

Why Choose: 

        Ideal for organizations seeking a comprehensive endpoint management solution with advanced security features.

3. Patch My PC

Patch My PC is a popular third-party patch management solution designed to automate the process of updating non-Microsoft software on Windows systems. Here's a breakdown of its key features, pros, and cons:

Key Features:

• Automated Updates: Automates the detection, download, and installation of updates for a wide range of third-party applications (e.g., Adobe Reader, Java, Chrome).
• Centralized Management: Allows for centralized management of updates across multiple devices within a network.
• Scheduled Updates: Enables administrators to schedule updates to occur at specific times or on specific days, minimizing disruption to user workflows.
• Silent Installation: Can install updates silently in the background, reducing end-user interaction and interruptions.
• Reporting and Analytics: Provides reports on update status, compliance levels, and other relevant metrics.
• Integration with Other Tools: Can integrate with existing IT infrastructure, such as Active Directory and other management tools.

Pros:

• Improved Security: By keeping software up-to-date, Patch My PC helps to mitigate security vulnerabilities and reduce the risk of cyberattacks.
• Increased Productivity: Automates a time-consuming task, freeing up IT staff to focus on other priorities.
• Reduced IT Costs: Minimizes the need for manual intervention and reduces the risk of costly downtime caused by outdated software.
• Enhanced Compliance: Helps organizations comply with industry regulations and best practices related to software security and patching.
• User-Friendly Interface: Relatively easy to use and manage, even for those without extensive IT expertise.

Cons:

• Limited to Third-Party Software: Primarily focuses on third-party applications and may not be suitable for managing updates for Microsoft products.
• Cost: While there is a free version, organizations with larger deployments may need to invest in a paid subscription.
• Potential for Conflicts: In some cases, automated updates may interfere with other software or system configurations, requiring manual intervention.
• Reliance on Internet Connectivity: Requires a reliable internet connection for updates to be downloaded and installed.

Why Choose:

Patch My PC can be a valuable tool for organizations looking to streamline their patch management processes and improve their overall security posture. However, it's essential to carefully evaluate your specific needs and consider the potential limitations before making a decision.

4. ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus

ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus is a comprehensive patch management solution that automates the process of updating software across various operating systems and devices within an organization's network. Here's a breakdown of its key features, pros, and cons:

Key Features:

• Cross-Platform Support: Supports patching for Windows, Mac, Linux, and even mobile devices(for mobile patching, Need to buy ManageEngine MDM or complete Endpoint Central suite).
• Comprehensive Patching: Covers a wide range of software, including operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux), third-party applications, and even server applications.
• Automated Patch Deployment: Automates the entire patching process, including detection, download, testing, and deployment of updates.
• Vulnerability Assessment: Identifies and prioritizes vulnerabilities on endpoints to guide patching efforts.
• Compliance Reporting: Generates detailed reports on patch compliance, security posture, and other relevant metrics.
• Granular Control: Provides fine-grained control over patch deployment, allowing for targeted updates and staged rollouts.

Pros:

• Enhanced Security: Reduces the risk of cyberattacks by proactively patching vulnerabilities.
• Pricing: Affordable and flexible pricing options, good value for the price.
• Increased Visibility: Provides a comprehensive view of the organization's security posture.
• Compliance: Helps organizations meet compliance requirements by ensuring timely patching.
• Scalability: Can scale to accommodate the needs of organizations of all sizes.

Cons:

• Complexity: The interface can be complex for users without extensive IT experience.
• Resource Consumption: For on-prem setup, it consume significant server resources, especially during large-scale patch deployments.

Why Choose: Suitable for organizations seeking a comprehensive patch management solution at a competitive price.

5. SolarWinds

SolarWinds Patch Manager: Key Features

• Vulnerability Assessment: Proactively scans systems for vulnerabilities and identifies missing patches.
• Automated Patch Deployment: Automates the deployment of critical security updates to endpoints across the network.
• Third-Party Application Support: Supports patching for a wide range of third-party applications, including Adobe, Java, and antivirus software.
• Compliance Reporting: Generates detailed reports on patch compliance, enabling organizations to demonstrate compliance with industry regulations and security standards.
• User-Friendly Interface: Offers an intuitive interface that is relatively easy to navigate and understand, even for IT professionals with limited experience.
• Risk-Based Patching: Prioritizes critical patches based on risk levels, allowing organizations to focus on the most critical security threats.
• Scheduled Deployments: Enables administrators to schedule patch deployments during off-peak hours to minimize disruptions.
• Remote Patching: Supports remote patching of endpoints, allowing for efficient management of devices located across different locations.

Pros

• User-Friendly Interface: Relatively easy to use and navigate, making it suitable for organizations with limited IT resources.
• Clear and Concise Reporting: Provides clear and easily understandable reports on patch compliance and system vulnerabilities.
• Strong Focus on Ease of Use: Designed with a focus on user experience, making it relatively simple to learn and operate.
• Cost-Effective: Offers a competitive price point compared to some other enterprise-level patch management solutions.

Cons

• Limited Advanced Features: May lack some of the advanced features found in more sophisticated and expensive solutions.
• Scalability Limitations: May not be as well-suited for extremely large or complex IT environments with a high volume of endpoints.
• Third-Party Application Support: While it supports patching for many third-party applications, the breadth of support may not be as extensive as some competitors.

Choosing the Best Patch Management Solution

Selecting the optimal patch management software requires careful consideration of several factors. The "best" solution will vary significantly depending on your unique organizational needs, budget, and the size and complexity of your IT environment.

Key factors to consider include:

• Budget: Determine your budget constraints and compare pricing models (per device, per user, etc.) offered by different vendors.
• Essential Features: Identify the core features you absolutely require, such as vulnerability scanning, automated patch deployment, third-party application support, and robust reporting capabilities.
• Scalability: Choose a solution that can seamlessly scale to accommodate future growth in your endpoint device count and IT infrastructure.
• Ease of Use: Prioritize user experience. Select software with an intuitive interface, easy-to-manage features, and minimal administrative overhead.
• Support & Maintenance: Evaluate the level of customer support provided by each vendor, including availability, response times, and the quality of support resources.

By carefully evaluating these factors and comparing the strengths and weaknesses of different solutions, you can select the patch management software that best aligns with your organization's specific needs and budget, ultimately enhancing your cybersecurity posture and minimizing your exposure to cyber threats.

Explore further

• Patch Management: Learn processes, benefits, and best practices in our detailed guide.
• Patch Tuesday Updates: Microsoft’s monthly security updates, released every second Tuesday.
• Vulnerability Management: Explore strategies, tools, and lifecycle stages in our full article to safeguard systems. 
• Vulnerability Assessment: Learn how vulnerability assessments identify security risks and why they’re essential for proactive cyber defense.
• Vulnerability Scanning:  Explore how Vulnerability scanning works and how it strengthens your security posture.