How many times has this happened to you? You log on to start the day and you’re greeted by a notification that you need to update Windows and restart your computer. You make note of it, promising to do just that … after your meeting at nine, which turns into another at ten and so on.
Suddenly, weeks go by before you realize you never did follow through with that update.
Chances are, if it’s happened to you, it’s happened to most — if not all — of your employees too. When Windows updates get missed, your company network can become exposed to malicious third-party actors and hackers who are actively looking for any vulnerabilities. However, with the right cloud-based solution on your side, you can be confident that your sensitive data and proprietary information never fall into the wrong hands.
The importance of Windows updates
When it comes to Windows updates, Microsoft pushes out patches for two primary reasons:
- Addressing a glitch or bug that’s creating a problem for users during necessary day-to-day functions.
- Remedying a major security flaw that has already been or is soon to be discovered by hackers.
Given how many updates Microsoft releases on a regular basis (notably, any from 10 to over 100 every month, according to ZDNet), the company has tried to simplify processes for IT administrators by creating what’s informally known as “Patch Tuesday.” On the second Tuesday of every month, Microsoft releases the majority of their updates and patches for the Windows operating system.
Patch Tuesday was originally introduced in 2003, however there have been concerns surrounding the initiative ever since. For example, if Microsoft is aware of a vulnerability but doesn’t address it until the next month, it may give hackers the time they need to uncover the gap in security. In some historic cases, Microsoft has issued patches as they become ready, alleviating the risk — if updates are checked for and installed frequently.
The consequences of missing a Windows update were recently made clear when over 140,000 organizations were impacted by a flaw in the Exchange Server program, as reported by The Hill. Critical information and sensitive personal data had been compromised, leaving companies defenseless.
The importance of keeping up with routine Windows updates is clear. However, it can quickly become overwhelming for even the most experienced IT team to try and address the problem in a fully remote or hybrid work environment — a challenge that only continues to grow in complexity as an organization expands.
How a cloud-based solution can help
Automated patch management can simplify the process of keeping Windows systems and applications up to date by automating scans to check devices within the environment. From there, the technology can determine which patches each system, software, or app is missing, and deploy them automatically.
Cloud-based solutions take this concept a step further, as they’re specifically designed for needs unique to hybrid and remote work environments. Through a single centralized console, administrators can effectively push upgrades to remote workstations, servers and operating systems, either individually or automated in batches. And, for organizations looking to permanently move away from a designated office location, cloud-based solutions don’t require internal servers or ongoing maintenance, making them especially cost-effective for smaller organizations as well as internationals.
When looking for a patch management solution, prioritize finding a service provider that can offer scalable infrastructure that will grow alongside your evolving needs. By innovating patch management processes and using tools to help automate time-consuming tasks, your company can better manage costs and capture new efficiencies while also reducing security risks.
With the right tools on hand, organizations can rest assured that any potential Windows vulnerabilities are addressed without having to risk putting additional burden on IT teams that are already strained.
Deep Freeze Cloud Management
Faronics’ easy-to-use software distribution and patch management tools provide leaders and IT teams maximum control over Windows and third-party app installation and updates.
Our Deep Freeze Cloud solution offers a flexible and scalable platform that meets the needs of small and large enterprises — minus the major investment in expensive infrastructure and ongoing maintenance. Unlike other solutions on the market, Deep Freeze Cloud offers Windows updates, application deployment, scheduled application updates and usage stats. Empower your IT team with deeper insights across your entire enterprise network, even if employees are logging on from across the globe.
If you’re interested in learning more about how Deep Freeze Cloud can help you minimize risk and boost security, feel free to explore our products page or contact us today for your free trial.
