Patch management tools help administrators update devices remotely through the use of one platform. In this article, we’re going to look at the best patch management software and tools on the market.

Here is our list of the best patch management software & tools:

  • Atera (FREE TRIAL) A cloud-based patch manager designed for deployment by managed service providers (MSPs) that includes patch availability searches and a dashboard that allows patch selection.
  • NinjaOne Patch Management (FREE TRIAL) – formerly NinjaRMM – support tool aimed at managed service providers that patches Windows and Mac OS environments and is tuned to update 135 different software packages.
  • SuperOps Patch Management (FREE TRIAL) Part of an RMM package, this service will patch endpoints running Windows. Delivered from the cloud.
  • SolarWinds Patch Manager (FREE TRIAL) A patch manager for Windows systems that is part of a wider suite of IT infrastructure management tools. This system integrates with SCCM and specializes in patching Microsoft products. Installs on Windows Server.
  • N-able N-sight (FREE TRIAL) Remote monitoring and management software that is a great network monitoring tool for IT professionals and it includes patch management. This is cloud-based so it can be accessed from any operating system through a browser.
  • SecPod SanerNow Patch Management (FREE TRIAL) A cloud-based cyber-hygiene security-focused endpoint management platform that features interlinked vulnerability, patch, and asset management.
  • ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus (FREE TRIAL) A patch manager for Windows, Linux, and Mac OS that supports more than 750 applications.
  • PRTG Network Monitor (FREE TRIAL) IT infrastructure monitor that also supervises software and operating system versions.
  • GFI LanGuard Patch manager for Windows, Linux, and Mac OS devices that runs on Windows.
  • Cloud Management Suite Cloud-based tool that patches software on windows, Linux, and Mac OS hosts.
  • SysAid Patch Management This patch management tool is part of SysAid IT Asset Management. Supports manual patch strategies or be set to run automatically.
  • Itarian Patch Management A patch manager for Windows system that can also patch software on Linux remotely.
  • Automox This tool patches software on Windows, Linux, and Mac OS that runs automatically.
  • Kaseya VSA This patch manager is part of a remote monitoring and management system for use by MSPs.

Why Do I Need to Use Patch Management Software?

Patch management tools are critical because they allow you to update multiple devices from one geographic location. Rather than updating lots of network devices individually, you can update them collectively through one platform. From one user interface, you can push software and firmware updates to devices connected to your network.

Patch management software is useful because it saves the user time and makes managing patches much easier. Being in the position to keep devices updated reduces the likelihood of a device being unpatched and compromised.

The Best Patch Management Software & Tools

1. Atera Patch Management (FREE TRIAL)

Our methodology for selecting patch management tools

We reviewed the market for patch management software and analyzed the options based on the following criteria:

  • An autodetection process that is able to contact each device connected to the network
  • A system scanner that will compile a software inventory giving all current versions of software, including operating systems
  • An automated patch finder that will monitor the sites of software providers for update availability
  • Integration with WSUS and SCCM
  • Automated patch rollout for unattended actions with termination status reports
  • A free trial for a cost-free assessment period or a money-back guarantee
  • Value for money with functions that are worth paying for

Atera is a patch management solution and RMM software platform. This tool is designed specifically for small- to mid-sized businesses and provides a dashboard-based monitoring experience. It is SaaS-based so you can update patches on your network devices no matter where you are located. Patches can be identified and automatically updated to keep your network updated with minimal effort.

Key Features

  • Patch gathering
  • Cloud-based console
  • Patch completion reports
  • Priced per technician

Patch management on Atera can be used to view the real-time status of system resources, active users, windows updates, SQL servers, Exchange, Active Directory, VMware, and Hyper-V. You also have the option to automatically discover newly available patches and schedule updates monthly or weekly.

Alerts is another feature that helps you to stay on top of network security. On the main dashboard, you are shown a breakdown of Recent Alerts which are ranked and color-coded with additional details. This helps to keep you in the loop about what is happening on your network and if any devices have been left vulnerable.

Atera offers a clear-cut patch management experience that would function well within any enterprise environment type. However, the price tag makes Atera ideal for smaller organizations that want to reduce costs. It costs $99 (£82.60) per technician for unlimited devices. There is also a free trial.

Pros:

  • Minimalistic interface makes it easy to view the metrics that matter most
  • Flexible pricing model makes it a viable option for small businesses
  • Includes multiple PSA features, great for helpdesk teams and growing MSPs
  • Can track SLAs and includes a time tracking option for maintenance tasks

Cons:

  • Focuses heavily on MSP related tools, other businesses may not be able to utilize multi-tenant features

2. NinjaOne Patch Management (FREE TRIAL)

EDITOR’S CHOICE

The Atera platform is our top pick for a patch management service because it is integrated into a full suite of remote monitoring and management tools. This package is ideal for managed service providers but it can also be used by in-house Operations departments to run multiple sites. The patch manager includes a method to launch your custom scripts as well s standard system update files. This allows you to create your own workflows and run them on a schedule so that out-of-hours processing of maintenance tasks won’t interfere with the system’s availability for users. The patch manager can optionally reboot devices once a patch has been applied. All of these functions are fully documented so you can show your clients the work that has been performed on their systems and contribute to their compliance reporting.

Download: Register for the FREE Trial

Official Site: https://www.atera.com/signup/

OS: Cloud-based

NinjaOne Patch Manager – formerly NinjaRMM – specializes in updating endpoints that run Windows and MacOS. As an RMM, this tool is specifically built to manage devices remotely, so it is an excellent software package for managed service providers (MSPs). The patch manager is able to manage updates for more than 135 different software packages.

  • Updates Windows and macOS endpoints
  • Scheduled rollouts
  • Compliance reporting

The automation features of NinjaOne’s patch manager can be set at any level: organization, site, department, group, or device. This enables MSPs to cover more customers with less staff and they won’t be held up by tricky client sites with varied roles and software inventories. Operators can schedule patch rollout and restart commands separately and also launch patch installation in bulk or case-by-case manually.

The console includes a visual layout to report patching activities that enables instant recognition of failed rollouts. The reporting functions of NinjaOne support SLA compliance proof and billing functions.

NinjaOne is a cloud-based management platform so it can be accessed from anywhere, even remotely. MSPs can white-label the interface for the service, so clients can be given access to the console without weakening the MSP’s brand.

Prices are levied per monitored device on a pay-as-you-go basis, so you won’t be tied down by contracts or early termination fees. You can register for a free quote. NinjaOne has offices in the USA, the UK, France, Spain, and Germany and the service is fully GDPR compliant. You can get a 14-day free trial of NinjaOne

  • Can silently install and uninstall applications and patches while the user works

  • Patch management and other automated maintenance tasks can be easily scheduled

  • Platform agnostic web-based management

  • Lacks support for mobile devices

NinjaOne Patch Management Start 14-day FREE Trial

3. SuperOps Patch Management (FREE TRIAL)

SuperOps Patch Management is part of an RMM package that is aimed at managed service providers (MSPs). The RMM is a subscription service, offered with plans that also include a professional services automation (PSA) package. So, this deal provides an MSP with all of its software needs. The Patch Management module provides automated processes to keep the software on Windows computers up to date.

  • Included in and RMM and PSA bundle
  • Automated patch polling
  • Automatic patch rollout

The Patch Management system is partnered with an Asset Management module. The Asset Manager discovers all devices connected to the client’s network and checks through its software. This process creates an enterprise-wide software inventory that provides the Patch Manager with a list of packages to maintain.

The service watches over the software running on laptops and desktops and it will keep an eye on the availability of updates to the operating systems of those devices.

The Dashboard for the Patch Management tool is hosted in the cloud and can be accessed from anywhere through any standard Web browser. The console includes a settings section where the technician specifies a calendar of maintenance windows. It is then possible to specify automatic patch rollout. In that scenario, the Patch Management system will queue up available patches for the next available maintenance period.

The automation features in the Patch Management tool are great time savers and they free up valuable technician time for other tasks. Patches can be applied overnight without human intervention. On arriving to work the morning after a patch run, the technician team can check on the completion status of each patch. All of the actions of the Patch Management service are fully logged.

The SuperOps system is a SaaS platform that you pay for with a subscription. There are four plans available and the first of these is free for the first year. This is called the Solo plan and is aimed at independent technicians. The top two plans are called Growth and Premium. Both of these include the Patch Management service and you can try either on for a 21-day free trial.

  • A SaaS package that includes storage space for patch installers

  • An automated system that frees up staff and so cuts costs

  • Based on a constantly updated software inventory

  • Only patches computers running Windows

SuperOps Patch management Start 21-day FREE Trial

4. SolarWinds Patch Manager (FREE TRIAL)

SolarWinds Patch Manager is a tool used for Microsoft WSUS patch management. This tool integrates with SCCM and offers users the ability to automate patches. In other words, you don’t need to add patches manually in order to stay up-to-date. If there are any problems with patches, then you can diagnose problems with Windows Update Agent.

  • Integrates with SCCM
  • Completion reports
  • Patch approval
  • Compliance reporting
  • Full patch management automation

This comprehensive patch management experience offered by SolarWinds Patch Manager is very user-friendly. On the patch status dashboard, you can view the latest patches and the top 10 missing patches to see where your network security needs to be improved.

If you require more details you can also view the status of SCCM endpoints and additional third-party patches. Updates from the following applications are supported: Adobe, Apache, Apple, Citrix, Dell, Google, HP business, Malwarebytes, and VMware.

There are also patch compliance reports which can be used to detail the status of patches and overall regulatory requirements. All of this information can be sent onwards to other members of your team for further analysis.

Overall, SolarWinds Patch Manager is great for patch management as it manages vital Windows patches and Microsoft software updates. The system also updates software for key services from Adobe, Apple, VMWare, and other major systems providers. The Patch Manager provides a unified interface for updates to all servers and endpoints on your system that run Windows versions. Control features allow patches to be paused for examination and the results of patch rollouts are displayed in the console, indicating failed updates that can be relaunched.

Overall SolarWinds Patch Manager is well-suited to those looking for a WSUS and SCCM patch management solution with a simple dashboard and patch compliance reports. SolarWinds Patch Manager starts from a price of $3,750 (£2,845). There is also a 30-day free trial available.

  • Simple dashboard makes it easy to track and visual patches and their progress, even on larger networks

  • Integrated directly with SCCM for a smoother patch deployment

  • Supports a wide variety of third party patching options

  • The tool is enterprise-focused, may not be the best option for home labs or small networks

SolarWinds Patch Manager Download 30-day FREE Trial

5. N-able N-sight (FREE TRIAL)

N-able N-sight is a very useful network monitoring tool for IT departments that have responsibility for many sites. The remote monitoring and management software bundle includes automated patch management.

  • Variable patching policies
  • Status reports
  • Patch availability detection

The Patch Manager in the RMM network monitoring software allows a network manager to set up different policies that trigger specific patch rollout strategies according to a list of criteria, such as device location, type, or model. The patch management software allows for manual launches or scheduled execution of patch distribution and compilation. It is also possible to launch a patch rollback on demand if a patch is later discovered to have caused problems.

Other features in the Patch Manager include disabling individual devices, heightened security for specific patch rollouts, and deep scans to detect all firmware instances that need to be managed.

The patch management utility is just one of the features included in the RMM package that support all of the functions of an IT department. Other features in the bundle include network discovery, constant SNMP network monitoring, regular endpoint management/detection, and response for security protection.

The N-able N-sight system is a cloud-based service and so it isn’t tied down to one specific operating system. The dashboard can be accessed from anywhere through any browser or through a mobile app. The system is charged for by subscription and it is available for a 30-day free trial.

  • Excellent monitoring dashboard, great for MSPs or any size NOC teams

  • Scalable cloud-based deployment

  • Monitor for anywhere via web browser

  • Automatic asset discovery makes inventory management easy, even on busy networks

  • Variety of automated remote administration options make it a solid choice for helpdesk support

  • The platform can take time to fully explore all of its features and configuration options

N-able N-sight Start 30-day FREE Trial

6. SecPod SanerNow Patch Management (FREE TRIAL)

SecPod SanerNow Patch Management is a cyber-hygiene endpoint protection and management platform that is delivered on the SaaS model from the cloud. The service will manage endpoints running Windows, macOS, and Linux and it includes a patch manager that automates deployment of the latest patches. While watching over operating system versions, this patch manager will also monitor third party software packages and keep them up-to-date. The patching system is fully automated while still allowing manual patch rollout launch for emergency situations.

  • Automated up-to-date patching for Windows, Linux, and macOS
  • Updates third-party applications
  • Data privacy standards compliance

A big selling point of the SecPod SanerNow Patch Management system is that it combines many of the system management and security tools that any systems administrator will need to use. Not only does the package provide a comprehensive list of essential tools, but it links their operations together in an automated workflow.

The package includes a vulnerability manager that checks on system configurations as well as software and operating system versions. The data exchange between this service and the patch manager automates the search for available and necessary patches and updates.

The patch manager also interacts with the asset management service that is built into SanerNow. The two modules update each other on operating system and software versions, which makes reference information on all assets instantly available to the systems administrator.

Pach gathering and rollout are automated. When patches become available, they will be queued up in the patch manager for application at the next available maintenance window. The systems administrator has the option to suspend a patch. After the rollout has occurred, outcome statuses are available, enabling the administrator to check on failed patches and rerun them.

SecPod SanerNow Patch Management is a unified service that covers asset discovery, security services, and asset monitoring. The package is all accessed through a cloud-hosed console and is offered as a subscription service. The easiest way to fully understand the capabilities of SanerNow is to access it on a 30-day free trial.

  • Workflows between vulnerability scanning, patch management, and asset inventories

  • A cloud-based service with no need to host or maintain the system management software

  • Covers software packages as well as operating systems

  • Some business management members will need to overcome their nervousness about outsourcing security functions to an external platform

SecPod SanerNow Patch Management Start 30-day FREE Trial

7. ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus (FREE TRIAL)

ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus is a centralized patch management tool that can be used to patch Windows, Mac OS, and Linux computers. The platform offers support for over 750 applications. ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus can be deployed on-premises or in the cloud and is just as comfortable with managing virtual machines and servers as it is desktop devices. Patch management is automated with connected devices being scanned and assessed automatically.

  • Patch Windows, Linux, and macOS devices
  • Updates to 750 applications
  • Test and approve option

The bulk of the patch management experience is delivered through the dashboard. The dashboard offers a patch view, all computer view, and a detailed view. Each view displays different information. For example, the patch view option shows you patches that are available for your network whereas the all systems view shows you the status of current devices. Changing between these options helps you to prioritize what information you wish to see.

One exceptional feature available on ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus is the ability to test and approve patches. The ‘test and approve’ feature allows you to test patches on a small group of computers before you apply any changes to the entire network. Using this feature ensures that you don’t deploy any patches that put your network out of action!

There are three versions of ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus: the Free Edition, ProfessionalEdition, and Enterprise Edition. The Free Edition package supports up to 25 computers. The professional version supports larger LAN environments and provides patch management reports and third-party patch management. The Professional Edition adds antivirus definition updates and the ability to test and approve patches. There is also a free trial version.

  • Flexible deployment options across multiple platforms

  • Can be installed on both Windows and Linux platforms, making it more flexible than other on-premise options

  • Offers in-depth reporting, ideal for enterprise management or MSPs

  • Integrated into more applications than most patch management solutions

  • MangeEngine is a feature-rich platform that takes time to fully explore and learn

ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus Start 30-day FREE Trial

8. Paessler PRTG Network Monitor (FREE TRIAL)

PRTG Network Monitor is widely-known as a network monitoring platform but also offers centralized patch management capabilities as well. You can use this tool to check for Windows patches and other updates performed within your network. If a device is experiencing issues updating then you can see that through the dashboard view.

  • Patch availability scans
  • Status reports
  • Software audits

There are also notifications to provide real-time updates on patch status. For example, if a patch fails then you can be sent an alert with more details. To use the alerts system, all you need to do is configure a sensor for the type of system that you want to monitor. PRTG Network Monitor uses configurable sensors to measure particular segments of your network.

For example, there is a Windows Updates Status (PowerShell) Sensor. You can use this sensor to monitor the following information: time elapsed since last update, installed windows updates, missing windows updates, and hidden updates. All of this information is categorized by severity and shown to you with numerical and graphical meters.

You can configure thresholds for each sensor so that you receive a notification once certain criteria have been met. You can configure PRTG Network Monitor to notify you of the moment that an update has been missed. Alerts are sent via email, SMS, or push notifications.

There is a free version of PRTG Network Monitor which supports up to 100 sensors. If you need more than that, you can purchase one of the paid versions. The price of the paid versions depends on the number of sensors you require. The paid versions start with PRTG 500 which provides 500 sensors for $1600 (£1,214). You can download a 30-day free trial.

  • Flexible reporting and alert options for patching notifications

  • Full customizable dashboard is great for NOC teams

  • Drag and drop editor makes it easy to build custom views and reports

  • Supports a wide range of alert mediums such as SMS, email, and third-party integrations into platforms like Slack

  • Great option for companies looking for patch management and network/application monitoring

  • Supports a freeware version

  • Is a very comprehensive platform with many features and moving parts that require time to learn

Paessler PRTG Network Monitor Download 30-day FREE trial

9. GFI LanGuard

GFI LanGuard is a patch management solution that can patch Windows, Mac OS, and Linux devices. It is backed by over 60,000 vulnerability assessments to help keep your devices up-to-date. GFI LanGuard can monitor over 60 third-party applications including Active Python, FileZilla Client, Apache Web Server, Apple QuickTime, Adobe Reader, Adobe Acrobat, Core FTP, Nmap, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, VMware Player, and more.

  • Patch Windows, macOS, and Linux devices
  • Updates 60 applications
  • Vulnerability scans

All you need to run GFI LanGuard is Microsoft Windows Server 2016 Standard DataCenter, Microsoft Windows Server 2012, Microsoft Windows Server 2008, Microsoft Windows 10 Pro/Enterprise, Microsoft Windows 7, Microsoft Windows Vista or Microsoft Small Business Server 2011.

Mid-sized organizations looking for a patch management solution that can be configured alongside a WSUS server that is reliable and easy to deploy would be well-advised to consider GFI Languard.

The tool costs $24 (£18) for a one-year subscription. There is also a node-based pricing structure that costs $26.00 (£19) per user for nodes 25-49. Between nodes 50-249 this drops to $14.00 (£10.62) and then drops to $10 (£7.59) per node for 250-2999. There is also a free trial version that you can download here.

  • Multi-platform support for Microsoft, Linux, and Mac

  • Includes support for patching other popular third-party applications like Adobe, Java, and Runtime

  • Simple, yet effective interface

  • Built-in vulnerabilities assessment uses patch information to help gauge risk for security teams

  • Would like to see more features for scheduling patches

  • Could use more up to date support for newer third party applications

10. Cloud Management Suite

Cloud Management Suite is a versatile patch management solution that offers support for Windows, Mac, Linux, and third-party applications. This tool is cloud-based and is accessed through a web browser. Cloud Management Suite can be deployed in less than an hour. From the moment you launch the program, there are automated patch queries that show you the Critical and Top 10 Windows patches so that you can kick start your patch management.

  • Patches Windows, Linux, and macOS devices
  • Patch availability detection
  • Patch prioritization

If you need to look closer into patches you can generate reports. Reports provide you with a record of the patch data you have produced in real-time. For additional security over your patch records, you can enable two-factor authentication with an email or SMS.

There are three versions of Cloud Management Suite: Cloud Management Suite Essentials, Cloud Management Suite, and Cloud Management Suite Realtime Security. The Essentials version offers third-party patching and device discovery with one console user account. The Essentials version offers five console user accounts and reports. The Cloud Management Suite Realtime Security version offers unlimited user accounts and live device location maps. You can download the free trial here.

  • Can support patching for Windows, Linux, and Mac

  • Cloud-based, accessible from virtually anywhere

  • Automatically prioritizes critical security patches

  • Offers 2FA security upon login

  • The learning curve can be fairly steep, especially during onboarding

  • Reporting can be difficult to get working the way you want it

11. SysAid Patch Management (SysAid IT Asset Management)

SysAid Patch Management is a tool that integrates into SysAid IT Asset Management that is designed to keep computers and windows servers up-to-date. Patches can be automatically and manually updated. The tool has been designed to make the setup process as simple as possible and the user interface maintains this usability from managing patches to configuring manual updates.

  • Patches endpoints and servers
  • Patch management automation or manual options
  • Status reports

SysAid Patch Management supports many different third-party applications including Adobe Flash, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Java, RealPlayer, Safari, Skype, Mozilla Thunderbird, Yahoo Messenger, Apple iTunes, and 7-Zip. In other words, you can monitor most third-party services and applications without leaving the management platform.

The patch management experience offered by SysAid Patch Management has something to offer enterprises of all sizes. There are three versions available for purchase: A La Carte, Full and Basic. However, you need to contact the company directly to view a quote. There is also a free trial which can be downloaded here.

  • Supports automatic and manual patching, good for critical systems you want more control over

  • Flexible pricing options allow you to choose the features you pay for

  • Can patch common third party applications alongside the operating system

  • The interface feels cluttered and is text-heavy

  • Could benefit from more visualizations to track patching metrics

  • Can be difficult to set up patch scheduling

12. Itarian Patch Management

Itarian Patch Management is another patch management solution that simplifies the patch management process. Itarian Patch Management is designed specifically for Windows patches and can update Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows XP Gold, Windows Vista, Vista, Gold, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10. Third-party patches are available on request if you require patches for other devices.

  • Patches Windows and Linux
  • Automated software updates
  • Status reports

The user interface is relatively basic but gets the job done well. From launch, you can start to automatically discover devices in your network to begin detecting and patching future vulnerabilities.

From then on, you can create policies to run automatic patch deployment and schedule updates. This means that computers will be updated on an automated basis. You can also go a step further and remotely deploy updates for Windows and Linux machines. Itarian Patch management thus provides an exceptional remote patch management experience.

Few tools offer the complete remote patch management solution that Itarian Patch Management does. One of the perks of Itarian Patch Management is that you can download it for free before you upgrade (you’ll need to contact the company directly for a quote). All you need to do to begin is enter your email. The free trial version of Italian Patch Management is available here.

  • Simple interface is easy to learn on your own

  • Can automatically discover machines on the network

  • Patching policies are easy to create

  • Can support Linux in a limited capacity, but was built more for Windows

13. Automox

Automox is an OS and third-party patching solution for Windows, Mac, and Linux systems. On Automox, available patches are deployed automatically. However, on the dashboard, you can also view available patches and accept or reject as needed. There is also the option to see further information if you need to know more before deploying a patch. You can even create custom scripts to dictate how patches are deployed.

Key Features:

  • Automated patch gathering
  • User option to reject a patch
  • Unattended patch rollout

This program also offers support for a range of third-party applications. Adobe, MozillaFirefox, and Google Chrome are just some of the names that Automox offers support for. The mix of OS and third-party support makes Automox ideal in most enterprise environments because it can sustain lots of different software providers.

There are two pricing options available for Automox: the Basic and Full versions. The basic version clocks in at $1.60 (£1.21) per endpoint per month. The Full version is billed at $4.00 (£3.04) per active endpoint per month. The main difference between the two is that the Full version offers advanced policy features, a rules-based patching engine, and custom end-user notifications. There is also a 15-day free trial that you can download here.

  • Highly visual, create use of colors and graphics to display top-level patching insights

  • Supports custom scripts for custom patching workflows

  • Can patch Windows, Linux, Mac, and third-party applications such as Chrome and Adobe

  • Pricing is based on number endpoints, making it a scalable patch management option

  • Would like to see better patch prioritization

  • Scheduling could use improvement, better protections from accidental forced shutdowns

14. Kaseya VSA

Finally, we have Kaseya VSA. With Kaseya VSA you can view the patch status of devices connected to your network in real-time. You can tell whether a machine has patches available regardless of whether it is turned on or off. All of this information is shown through one dashboard view so that you don’t miss anything. You also have the control to Override Profiles and block patches that you don’t want to deploy.

  • An RMM for MSPs
  • Autodiscovery and software inventory creation
  • Automated patch management

One of the key selling points of Kaseya VSA is that you don’t need to maintain a centralized file share or LAN cache. The Agent Endpoint Fabric sends update packages more efficiently reducing the resource footprint needed to update connected devices.

In addition, to make sure that you don’t fall behind, Kaseya VSA has a notifications system. You configure the platform to send you an alert if issues like de-fragmentation are recognized on a device.

Kaseya VSA also offers wider network monitoring capabilities to measure key metrics like CPU, memory usage, disk usage, and bandwidth usage to provide comprehensive coverage. The ability to manage the physical health of devices alongside their patch status makes this a top of the line patch management solution.

The price of Kaseya VSA depends on the number of endpoints you require. The more endpoints you have, the higher the price. However, you’ll have to contact the company directly if you want to view a quote. Although there is also a 14-day free trial available here.

  • Automated software deployments can help streamline adding new machines to the client network

  • Does a good job at monitoring overall health and resource consumption of devices alongside patch management

  • Interface is simple and customizable

  • Would like to see a longer trial period

  • It can be difficult to use certain patching features such as the blocking option

Choosing Patch Management Software

Though there are many different patch management tools, SolarWinds Patch Manager, Atera, NinjaOne, and Cloud Management Suite stand out as some of the best on this list. Each of these tools has the design and production value to sustain networks of all sizes. These three tools are competitively-priced making them accessible to smaller organizations as well.

However, if the price tag of these tools is too high a tool like PRTG Network Monitor is a formidable alternative. Being able to create your own patch management sensors helps to give you all the functionality of some higher-priced tools without the costs (though you can always transition to paid versions as well!).

Likewise, if you want general network monitoring features as well you can simply provision network monitoring sensors to keep tabs on your network. Combining patch management and network monitoring is useful for limiting the potential for vulnerabilities of all shapes and sizes.

Investing in a patch management tool will pay off over the long term as you keep your network’s devices updated and safe from critical software vulnerabilities. Trying to manually update patches inconsistently can have disastrous consequences if a cyber attacker exploits an unpatched vulnerability. By using a patch management tool you can reduce the risk of a successful attack and stay online.