# Best Patch Management Software - 2026 Reviews & Pricing

> Find the best Patch Management Software for your organization. Compare top Patch Management Software systems with customer reviews, pricing, and free demos.

Source: https://www.softwareadvice.com/patch-management

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# Best Patch Management Software of 2026

Updated July 1, 2026

On this page

1.  Popular Comparisons
2.  Buyers Guide
3.  Related Software

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83 results

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Showing 1 - 25 of 83 products

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4.63

[(1757)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/117339-ManageEngine-Desktop-Central/reviews/)

Best for:Endpoint Management

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Available

Software Advice Summary

ManageEngine Desktop Central is a mobile device management (MDM) solution designed to help businesses automate, secure, audit, standardize and manage operations across servers, desktops, smartphones, and more. Features include software license management, asset inventory tracking, patch management, endpoint administration, OS deployment and bring your own device (BYOD). ManageEngine Desktop Central helps administrators to seek users' permissions to remotely access desktops and troubleshoot machines using collaboration, video recording and file transfer capabilities. The application offers various inbuilt configurations related to environment variables, mapping, properties, shortcuts, IP/shared printers, message boxes, and application launches. Additionally, it also features an endpoint security module, which lets IT teams detect and mitigate vulnerabilities, automatically deploy patches, eliminate high-risk software and prevent data loss, among others. Services are offered on an annual subscription basis that includes support via phone, product videos and an online knowledge base.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/117339-ManageEngine-Desktop-Central/)

### What users love

-   Automated patching and security
-   Responsive and accessible support team
-   Centralized and flexible deployments

### To take in mind

-   Cluttered and outdated interface design
-   Limited customization and automation options
-   Steep learning curve for new users

### Best rated features:

Help Desk Management

5.0

SSL Security

5.0

Portable License

5.0

Whitelisting/Blacklisting

4.8

### Worst rated features:

Knowledge Base Management

3.0

Issue Auditing

3.8

Capacity Management

3.8

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/117339-ManageEngine-Desktop-Central/#key-features)

### Professional Edition

$795.00/year

Endpoint-based licensing (minimum 50 endpoints).

### Enterprise Edition

$945.00/year

Endpoint-based licensing (minimum 50 endpoints).

### UEM Edition

$1,095.00/year

Endpoint-based licensing (minimum 50 endpoints).

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/117339-ManageEngine-Desktop-Central/#pricing-and-plans)

4.74

[(293)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/remote-support/ninjarmm-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Small businesses

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

NinjaOne unifies IT to simplify work for nearly 40,000 customers in 140+ countries. ​ The NinjaOne Unified IT Operations Platform delivers endpoint management, autonomous patching, backup, and remote access in a single console to improve efficiency, increase resilience, and reduce spend. By automating IT and managing all endpoints, organizations give employees a great technology experience to work faster, smarter, and easier while IT teams modernize and improve efficiency. NinjaOne is a Leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Endpoint Management Tools. The company is obsessed with customer success and has retained a 98% customer satisfaction score for more than 5 years. ​ NinjaOne adheres to enterprise-grade security standards, including FedRAMP Moderate Rev 5 authorization, SOC 2 certification, ISO 27001 compliance, and GovRAMP certification. The platform operates from a centralized console, enabling IT teams to manage devices, secure endpoints, and automate workflows. Additional features include documentation tools, script automation, and a developer API for customization and extended functionality.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/remote-support/ninjarmm-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Uptime Reporting

5.0

Approval Process Control

5.0

Patch Testing

5.0

Session Recording

5.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/remote-support/ninjarmm-profile/#key-features)

### Plan

Custom

Pricing available upon request

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/remote-support/ninjarmm-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

4.54

[(449)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/help-desk/atera-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Ease of use

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Atera is an agentic AI platform that assists with IT management, ticketing, and more. It offers IT teams and MSPs a digital workforce of AI agents to preemptively and autonomously manage their entire IT operations. It combines RMM, helpdesk, ticketing, and automation to optimize downtime, improve SLAs, and more. Introducing Robin, an autonomous IT solution, that cuts 40% of your IT workload, supports users 24/7, and acts like a personal AI technician.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/help-desk/atera-profile/)

### What users love

-   Comprehensive remote management tools
-   Responsive and helpful support team
-   Robust and evolving feature set

### To take in mind

-   Cost concerns for smaller teams
-   Occasional slowness and lag issues

### Best rated features:

Service Request Management

5.0

Configuration Management

5.0

Network Resource Management

5.0

Network Security

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Chat/Messaging

2.0

Reporting & Statistics

3.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/help-desk/atera-profile/#key-features)

### Pro

$129.00/month

The Pro Plan includes basic features and integrations like remote management, monitoring and alerts and patch management.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/help-desk/atera-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Growth

$179.00/month

The Growth Plan includes all Pro features with additional features such as Mac agent, Chat and further integrations. Users are also provided with a free trial.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/help-desk/atera-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Power

$209.00/month

All the power of Growth, and: - Custom analytics - Custom support addresses (unlimited) - Custom asset types (up to 20) - File transfer (up to 50GB per month) - Audit log - 1 year retention - Data recovery - Eligible for Copilot (paid add-on)... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/help-desk/atera-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/help-desk/atera-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

4.62

[(153)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/unified-endpoint-management/hexnode-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Customer support

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Hexnode MDM is a hybrid mobile device management (MDM) solution that provides businesses, tools and functionalities to monitor and manage mobile devices across various industry verticals. The solution can either be deployed on-premise or hosted in the cloud. Hexnode offers various MDM features that include provisioning and management tools, remote set-up and configurations, app control and distribution, compliance checks and enforcement, endpoint management and remote lock and wipe. The solutions web filtering feature helps users to block malicious sites and restrict devices to specific sites. Additionally, Hexnode features region-based control or geofencing, expense management, APIs, app management and a custom reporting engine. It supports integration with various device-level security systems such as Samsung SAFE, LG GATE and Kyocera. Services are offered on a monthly subscription basis that includes support via phone, email, online FAQs and a knowledge base.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/unified-endpoint-management/hexnode-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Data Import/Export

5.0

Vulnerability Scanning

5.0

API

5.0

Remote Update/Installation

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Third-Party Integrations

2.0

Automatic Patch Deployment

3.0

Remote Access/Control

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/unified-endpoint-management/hexnode-profile/#key-features)

### Custom Pricing

Custom

Pricing available upon request

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/unified-endpoint-management/hexnode-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

4.91

[(238)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/action1-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Value for money

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Not available

Free version: Available

Software Advice Summary

Action1 reinvents patching with an infinitely scalable, highly secure, cloud-native platform configurable in 5 minutes — it just works and is always free for the first 100 endpoints, with no functional limits. Featuring unified OS and third-party patching with peer-to-peer patch distribution and real-time vulnerability assessment with no VPN needed, it enables autonomous endpoint management that preempts ransomware and security risks, all while eliminating costly routine labor. Trusted by thousands of enterprises managing millions of endpoints globally, Action1 is certified for SOC 2 and ISO 27001. The company is founder-led by industry veterans Alex Vovk and Mike Walters, who founded Netwrix, which has grown into a multi-billion-dollar industry-leading cybersecurity company.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/action1-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Real-Time Data

5.0

Data Security

5.0

Audit Management

5.0

Network Wide Management

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Event Logs

3.8

Real-Time Analytics

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/action1-profile/#key-features)

4.20

[(5)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/security/tanium-profile/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

The Tanium Autonomous IT Platform unifies endpoint management and security on a single, unified platform driven by AI and real-time intelligence. It helps organizations innovate faster, stay resilient, and move their business forward with confidence. As devices expand across IT, cloud, mobile, and operational technology, teams often face tool sprawl, visibility gaps, and disconnected workflows. These challenges can delay management and remediation, increasing security risk and driving higher operational costs. Tanium addresses this with a single, unified platform driven by AI and real-time endpoint intelligence. Tanium collects current state information directly from endpoints to provide a trusted, real-time view of assets, configurations, vulnerabilities, and compliance posture. This ensures decisions and AI-driven insights and automation are based on what is actually happening across the environment. With IT operations and security in one system, teams can manage assets, deploy patches, enforce configurations, prioritize risk, and remediate issues using shared real-time intelligence. This reduces tool sprawl and simplifies day-to-day operations. Generative, agentic, and predictive AI help teams surface priorities and act faster. Automation and integrated operations enable closed-loop security, helping teams reduce exposure faster and strengthen resilience. Tanium gives organizations a clear path to autonomous IT by combining real-time endpoint intelligence with AI-driven insights and automation. The result is faster decisions, lower operational cost, and stronger resilience across complex, distributed environments. Key use cases include: 1. Real-Time Asset Visibility 2. Endpoint Performance Optimization 3. Autonomous Patch Management 4. Enterprise Application Management 5. Continuous Endpoint Security 6. Integrations and Connectivity... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/security/tanium-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Monitoring

5.0

Policy Management

5.0

Patch Management

5.0

Encryption

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Incident Management

3.5

Vulnerability Scanning

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/security/tanium-profile/#key-features)

4.86

[(4829)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/rippling-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Mid-size businesses

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Rippling is an integrated workforce management platform that unifies HR, IT, and finance tools to streamline operations. It centralizes employee data and automates tasks, offering features such as workflow studio for automation, reporting analytics, automated policies, and permissions management. Rippling provides specialized suites for various needs: Rippling HR manages the employee lifecycle, Rippling Payroll automates payments and direct deposits, IT tools enhance IT security with identity and device management, and the Finance suite integrates corporate cards, expenses, and accounts payable automatically. It also supports global compliance for onboarding and management across countries. Rippling is an all-in-one platform that offers a wide range of features to streamline HR operations, enhance security measures, automate payroll processes and control company costs. With its focus on scalability, security, automation and cost management, Rippling empowers businesses to optimize their workforce operations, reduce risks and achieve operational efficiency across their organization.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/rippling-profile/)

### What users love

-   User-friendly all-in-one platform
-   Centralized payroll and HR management
-   Intuitive and organized interface

### To take in mind

-   Slow and inconsistent support response
-   Cumbersome time off management
-   Overly strict and confusing security

### Best rated features:

Online Booking

5.0

Personalization and Recommendation

5.0

Availability Management

5.0

Job Board

5.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/rippling-profile/#key-features)

### Core

$8.00/month

Custom Quote available

### Pro

$8.00/month

Custom Quote available

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/rippling-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

4.69

[(65)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/vulnerability-management/heimdal-patch-and-asset-management-profile/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Heimdal Patch & Asset Management is an automated patch management solution with incorporated asset tracking features. With its help, your company can achieve pre-emptive vulnerability management, while at the same time allowing you to view and manage your software inventory in one accessible dashboard. One of the main features of Heimdal Patch & Asset Management is its automatic patch deployment for Windows, Linux, MacOS and other 3rd party software anywhere in the world. This operation is carried out after a schedule that you can customize, thus minimizing interruptions and maximizing productivity. In addition to this, Heimdal Patch & Asset Management can help a system's admin create accurate inventory reports that are in full compliance with international standards. And, of course, with this product, users are getting efficient asset tracking software for complete network and endpoint visibility. The Infinity Management Feature of the patching solution allows organizations to also gain the unique ability to deploy custom software and patches that are developed in-house. Heimdal Patch & Asset Management operates within the Unified Threat Dashboard, allowing users to upgrade or downgrade software and operating systems anytime, all under one convenient roof. Digital asset reports thus become easy to navigate and analyse, allowing you to get a clear overview of your enterprise’s patching needs. Furthermore, the updates and patches deployed by Heimdal Patch & Asset Management are carried out via strong HTTPS encryption, ensuring an additional layer of safety to the entire process. The solution can also be integrated into the core offering of Heimdal Threat Prevention, giving users the powerful option to tailor a company’s entire IT environment in one package.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/vulnerability-management/heimdal-patch-and-asset-management-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Real-Time Reporting

5.0

Vulnerability Assessment

5.0

Asset Tracking

5.0

Remote Access/Control

4.9

### Worst rated features:

Real-Time Data

3.0

Server Monitoring

3.8

Reporting & Statistics

4.0

Self Service Portal

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/vulnerability-management/heimdal-patch-and-asset-management-profile/#key-features)

### Basic

$16.00/year

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/vulnerability-management/heimdal-patch-and-asset-management-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

4.71

[(153)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/encryption/automox-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Features

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Automox is the Autonomous Endpoint Management platform built for autonomous from day one. Policy-driven, human-controlled automation gives IT and security teams the speed, clarity, and control to reduce risk and move faster with confidence. Automox unifies automation, visibility, protection, adaptability, and speed in a single, cloud-native platform – enabling teams to automate up to 96% more patches, shorten remediation time, and operate securely at scale across Windows, macOS, and Linux devices. Thousands of organizations trust Automox to operationalize IT autonomy and secure millions of endpoints globally.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/encryption/automox-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Risk Management

5.0

Remediation Management

5.0

IT Asset Management

5.0

Search/Filter

5.0

### Worst rated features:

API

3.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/encryption/automox-profile/#key-features)

### PatchOS

$1.00/month

Per endpoint/month billed annually

### Automate Essentials

Custom

Pricing available upon request

Essential IT automation

### Automate Enterprise

Custom

Pricing available upon request

Enterprise-scale IT automation

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/encryption/automox-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

4.86

[(22)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/185131-vRx/reviews/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Available

Software Advice Summary

Automatically or manually install all prioritized updates for which a patch is available across your OS and Apps. Focus on the vulnerabilities that have a real probability of being exploited instead of solving problems that don’t exist. vRx's Patchless Protection reduces the risk of a security breach even if a patch is not available. Using in-memory protection, vRx deploys a force-field around vulnerable applications so you can keep unpatched applications secure. vRx provides a cloud-based, real-time inventory that gives you a full catalogue of your endpoints no matter their location. Get an exacting view of your organization’s digital structure. - Enjoy Your Lunch Break - vRx's automation capabilities, along with many other efficiency maximizing tools, streamline vulnerability management so you can enjoy your lunch break to its fullest extent. Rapidly reduce your risk exposure from the vantage point of a clear user-interface and a clear mind.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/185131-vRx/)

### Best rated features:

Patch Management

5.0

Real-Time Updates

5.0

Vulnerability Protection

5.0

Risk Assessment

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Reporting & Statistics

3.0

Real-Time Notifications

3.0

Access Controls/Permissions

4.0

Real-Time Monitoring

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/185131-vRx/#key-features)

### Starter

$499.00/month

The pricing model is based on 'Per Asset.' Please reach out for a quote.

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/185131-vRx/#pricing-and-plans)

4.60

[(65)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/superops-ai-profile/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Available

Software Advice Summary

SuperOps is an AI-powered, unified PSA-RMM platform designed to streamline operations for modern MSPs and IT Teams. By PSA and RMM functionalities, SuperOps enables MSPs to manage client assets, projects, and documentation from a single, intuitive interface.​ Key Features: PSA: Enhances client engagement and revenue growth through efficient service delivery.​ RMM: Facilitates effortless management of client assets with proactive monitoring tools.​ IT Documentation: Ensures critical information is organised and easily accessible.​ Project Management: Assists in efficiently handling large-scale projects by breaking them down into manageable milestones. SuperOps also offers seamless integrations with popular tools like TeamViewer, QuickBooks, Webroot, and Stripe, allowing MSPs and IT Teams to work with their preferred applications within the platform.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/superops-ai-profile/)

### Best rated features:

IT Asset Management

5.0

Documentation Management

5.0

Support Ticket Management

4.8

Remote Monitoring & Management

4.7

### Worst rated features:

Project Management

2.7

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/superops-ai-profile/#key-features)

### Standar PSA

$79.00/month

### Standard RMM

$99.00/month

### Pro (Unified Basic)

$129.00

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/superops-ai-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

[Iru](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/71745-Iru/)

4.87

[(487)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/71745-Iru/reviews/)

Best for:Features

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Not available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Iru is the AI-powered IT & security platform used by the world's fastest-growing companies to secure their users, apps, and devices. Built for the AI era, Iru unifies identity & access, endpoint security & management, and compliance automation—collapsing the stack and giving IT & Security teams time and control back. The Problem IT & Security teams today juggle dozens of point solutions with separate consoles and data silos. There's no shared context or single view, so work slows and risk grows. Nearly half of teams cite overlapping tools as their top challenge. The stack is the problem. Iru collapses the stack by bringing together the capabilities every business relies on. When they live in one place, they inform each other, and everything works better. At the core is the Iru Context Model—a living map of your environment. On top of it sits Iru AI, which transforms complex data into clear, strategic insights and enables all products to inform and improve each other. The Platform Iru gives you a single view of your users, apps, and devices through six integrated products: - Workforce Identity delivers passwordless single sign-on with device-bound passkeys, context-aware access to every app, and automated user lifecycle management. - Endpoint Management provides advanced automation to onboard users, update apps, and enforce policies across Apple, Windows, and Android—all with a single lightweight endpoint agent. - Endpoint Detection & Response stops advanced and emerging threats with machine learning-enhanced detections, autonomous containment, and remediation in real time across Mac and Windows. - Vulnerability Management gives full visibility into software risk on Mac and Windows with autonomous response to patch vulnerable software, prioritized by Iru AI. - Compliance Automation is AI-native—transforming frameworks into tailored controls, breaking them into tasks, and mapping evidence automatically to keep you audit-ready." - Trust Center provides a public portal to share certifications, reports, and security posture to accelerate deals, with security questionnaires answered by Iru AI. Built for the AI Era Iru AI is designed from the ground up to connect agents across identity, endpoints, and compliance. Powered by the Iru Context Model, it understands your users, devices, and apps to act safely, intelligently, and in context across your organization. This gives IT & Security teams time and control back.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/71745-Iru/)

### Best rated features:

Data Management

5.0

Continuous Monitoring

5.0

Threat Intelligence

5.0

Authentication

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Activity Tracking

4.0

Dashboard

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/71745-Iru/#key-features)

[Patch My PC](https://www.softwareadvice.com/patch-management/patch-my-pc-profile/)

4.91

[(216)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/patch-management/patch-my-pc-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Patch Management

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Available

Software Advice Summary

Patch My PC is a product that allows system administrators to easily publish and deploy patches to third-party applications in Microsoft Configuration Manager and Intune. Our product can also package third-party applications that can be used for the initial deployment through task sequences, collection deployments, or Windows Autopilot. We help remove the tedious task for packaging and deploying third-party applications and updates.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/patch-management/patch-my-pc-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Lifecycle Management

5.0

Remote Update/Installation

5.0

Patch Management

4.9

Automatic Patch Deployment

4.9

### Worst rated features:

Usage Tracking/Analytics

3.5

Event Logs

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/patch-management/patch-my-pc-profile/#key-features)

### Basic

Custom

Pricing available upon request

### Enterprise Patch

$1,499.00/year

For companies that need to deploy third-party updates via Microsoft Windows Server Updates Services (WSUS) or Configuration Manager... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/patch-management/patch-my-pc-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Enterprise Plus

$2,499.00/year

For companies that need to deploy third-party updates and automate application packaging in Configuration Manager or Microsoft Intune... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/patch-management/patch-my-pc-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/patch-management/patch-my-pc-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

[PDQ Deploy & Inventory](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/pdq-deploy-and-inventory-profile/)

4.80

[(341)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/pdq-deploy-and-inventory-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Deployment Management

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Available

Software Advice Summary

If you're a sysadmin responsible for keeping Windows machines patched, organized, and running smoothly — and most of those machines live on your local network or connect via VPN — PDQ Deploy & Inventory was built for you. The on-prem endpoint management tool has been a staple for IT professionals for over a decade, trusted by teams in education, government, manufacturing, healthcare, and finance to handle the repetitive but critical work of patch management and software deployment. Common use cases: automated third-party patching and Windows Cumulative Update deployment, software inventory and compliance auditing, dynamic device group management, script execution across targeted Windows endpoints, and recurring maintenance automation for domain-joined fleets. Here's how it works: PDQ Inventory scans every Windows machine on your network and builds a live, searchable picture of your environment — hardware specs, installed apps, OS versions, Active Directory attributes, and anything else you define via custom scanners. Dynamic collections automatically group devices by criteria you set, so you always know which machines are out of date or out of compliance. PDQ Deploy uses those collections as deployment targets, letting you silently push software updates and Windows Cumulative Updates, run scripts, and automate recurring maintenance on a schedule — no end-user interruption required. The Package Library includes 500+ pre-built, pre-tested packages covering both popular third-party applications and Windows server and workstation patching, so one tool handles your full Windows update cycle. What sets D&I apart is its on-prem, self-hosted architecture. There's no agent to install on every device and no cloud dependency for managing your local fleet. It's designed for environments where devices are domain-joined, network-accessible, or reachable via VPN — and where IT teams want deep customization and fast execution and a self-hosted setup is the right fit. PDQ also offers PDQ Connect — a separate, cloud-native product for teams managing remote or hybrid fleets. Connect uses a lightweight agent and works over the internet without requiring a VPN, making it purpose-built for devices that are rarely or never on the corporate network. Unlike PDQ Connect, PDQ Deploy & Inventory does not require an agent on endpoints and is purpose-built for on-prem and VPN-connected environments. The two products serve different environments and can be used alongside each other. PDQ Deploy & Inventory is licensed per sysadmin with unlimited endpoint access. One license covers both products and includes the full Package Library. Support includes extensive documentation, an active community, video tutorials, and direct support channels. A 14-day free trial is available at pdq.com.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/pdq-deploy-and-inventory-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Backup and Recovery

5.0

Issue Management

5.0

Data Security

5.0

Prioritization

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Approval Process Control

3.8

Active Directory Integration

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/pdq-deploy-and-inventory-profile/#key-features)

### Standard plan

$1,950.00/year

One license per admin, unlimited endpoints. Volume discounts and multi-year pricing available. 15% discount if you're a small business (<50 employees), nonprofit, or school.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/pdq-deploy-and-inventory-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Nonprofit/Schools/Small Business (<50 employees)

$1,657.50/year

\]

### Enterprise

Custom

Pricing available upon request

For 15 or more licenses.

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/pdq-deploy-and-inventory-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

[Domotz](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/domotz-pro-profile/)

4.86

[(126)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/domotz-pro-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Small businesses

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Available

Software Advice Summary

Domotz is a network monitoring and management platform designed for MSPs, IT professionals, system integrators, and enterprises that need complete visibility and operational control across distributed networks. Start with Free Discovery to automatically identify devices, map network topology, and surface critical insights using real production data. No credit card is required. Free Discovery allows you to evaluate your environment, uncover risks, and understand device health before making a purchasing decision. When you are ready to move forward, Domotz offers simple and transparent pricing at $1.50 per device per month. Every monitored device includes full access to the platform. There are no feature tiers, no limits on users, and no hidden fees. All capabilities are available from day one. Domotz enables continuous monitoring and operational management of routers, switches, firewalls, access points, servers, cameras, printers, and IoT devices. Devices are automatically discovered and classified across multiple networks. Proactive alerts and insights help teams identify and resolve issues before they impact users. The platform integrates with more than 500 tools, including PSA platforms, documentation systems, automation tools, and leading network vendors. Unlimited users are supported with role based access, allowing teams to collaborate securely and efficiently. Domotz is built to scale from a single site to thousands of devices across multiple locations. Devices can be added or removed at any time, networks can be managed centrally, and subscriptions can be canceled whenever needed. Domotz delivers enterprise grade network monitoring and management while remaining easy to deploy and operate.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/domotz-pro-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Activity Tracking

5.0

Network Monitoring

5.0

Device Management

5.0

Change Management

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Real-Time Data

2.0

Relationship Mapping

3.5

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/domotz-pro-profile/#key-features)

### Device-Based Monitoring Plan

$1.50/month

Full-featured network monitoring and management priced per device. Start with a free trial—no credit card required. Monitor, manage, and automate your entire network with Domotz. Pricing is per device, with unlimited users, integrations, and expert support. Start free and scale when ready.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/domotz-pro-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-management/domotz-pro-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

[Scalefusion](https://www.softwareadvice.com/retail/scalefusion-profile/)

4.82

[(114)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/retail/scalefusion-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Value for money

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Scalefusion is a solution that helps businesses manage and control content on corporate devices in lockdown kiosk mode. Key features include wireless internet access, usage reporting, secure browsing, onsite printing, digital signature and touch screen support. Designed for businesses of all sizes, Scalefusion’s Kiosk Browser allows users to manage application access and restrict customers to specific websites. Its browser lockdown module enables enterprises to whitelist websites, remotely clear caches and control user access to various device peripherals such as audio, camera, Bluetooth, airplane mode and more. Additionally, the digital signage application allows firms to manage content using various presentation tools such as landscape, loop, time interval and multiple file formats. Scalefusion can either be deployed on-premise or hosted in the cloud. It is available on a monthly subscription and support is extended via documentation, phone, email and an online help desk.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/retail/scalefusion-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Remote Access/Control

5.0

Kiosk Mode

5.0

Reporting/Analytics

5.0

Deployment Management

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Endpoint Management

3.7

Automatic User/Device Recognition

4.0

Wireless Internet Access Control

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/retail/scalefusion-profile/#key-features)

### Essentials

$2.00/year

1 technician/administrator

### Growth

$3.50/year

5 technicians/administrators

### Business

$5.00/year

10 technicians/administrators

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/retail/scalefusion-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

[Naverisk](https://www.softwareadvice.com/psa/naverisk-profile/)

4.76

[(97)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/psa/naverisk-profile/reviews/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Naverisk is a remote monitoring and management solution for businesses of all sizes. The solution is used by managed service providers and IT professionals. Key features include technology monitoring, management patching, alerting, scripting and automation. The solution allows users to manage Windows, Linux, Mac OS servers, workstations and laptops. Naverisk allows users to monitor system event logs, scan networks, execute PowerShell and DOS commands as well as implement scripts. Automated system updates and scheduled reboots can be set up. The solution has a built-in ticketing feature that provides customizable billing and service agreements. Multiple technicians can track time or information for a ticket at the same time and troubleshoot managed devices remotely. Naverisk offers Bitdefender integration to provide solutions such as anti-virus and anti-malware tools, web content filters and firewalls. It has also partnered with StorageCraft for backup management, data replication and bare-metal recovery. The solution is available on a subscription basis and support is provided via phone and email.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/psa/naverisk-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Approval Process Control

5.0

Resource Management

5.0

Help Desk Management

5.0

Audit Trail

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Dashboard

1.0

Email Management

2.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/psa/naverisk-profile/#key-features)

### Basic

$110.00/month

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/psa/naverisk-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

[AppTec360 UEM](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/452291-AppTec-EMM/)

5.0

[(17)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/452291-AppTec-EMM/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Available

Software Advice Summary

AppTec EMM is an enterprise mobility management solution that helps organizations securely manage and control mobile devices, applications, and content. The solution caters to a range of industries such as retail, hybrid work, healthcare, education, and logistics. AppTec EMM offers features to address mobility challenges. It provides mobile device, application, and security management capabilities. Key features include secure VPN, browser, web filter, container, antivirus, remote control, and Android API integration. The solution also supports data loss prevention, BYOD, and digital signage. AppTec EMM is a comprehensive IT control solution with multi-level security. It is compatible across platforms and receives ongoing upgrades. The intuitive interface allows IT administrators to monitor data, apps, and devices. The solution also provides customer-focused service.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/452291-AppTec-EMM/)

### Best rated features:

Remote Access/Control

5.0

Security Management

5.0

Configuration Management

5.0

Patch Management

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Policy Management

4.0

Software Management

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/452291-AppTec-EMM/#key-features)

### Full UEM Package

€1.38/month

Unified Endpoint Management Package (Enterprise Mobile Manager) inclusive Support: Mobile Device Management PC & Mac Management App & Kiosk Management Security Management Connection Management BYOD Container Management Inventory Management Asset Management Auto Enrollment... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/452291-AppTec-EMM/#pricing-and-plans)

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/452291-AppTec-EMM/#pricing-and-plans)

[ESET PROTECT MDR](https://www.softwareadvice.com/vulnerability-scanner/eset-protect-mdr-profile/)

4.81

[(16)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/vulnerability-scanner/eset-protect-mdr-profile/reviews/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Not available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

ESET PROTECT MDR offers comprehensive managed detection and response services designed to secure businesses with 250+ employees. This advanced solution combines continuous threat monitoring, real-time threat intelligence, and expert incident response to protect your organization from cyber threats. ESET's team of cybersecurity professionals works around the clock to detect, analyze, and mitigate potential vulnerabilities, ensuring your systems remain secure. With features like rapid incident response, detailed reporting, and proactive threat hunting, ESET PROTECT MDR enhances your organization's ability to manage and reduce vulnerabilities effectively. Trust ESET to provide the expertise and technology needed to safeguard your digital assets and maintain a robust security posture.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/vulnerability-scanner/eset-protect-mdr-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Vulnerability Scanning

5.0

Audit Trail

5.0

Anti Virus

4.8

Reporting/Analytics

4.8

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/vulnerability-scanner/eset-protect-mdr-profile/#key-features)

[ManageEngine Endpoint Central MSP](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/420906-ManageEngine-Desktop-Central-MSP/)

4.67

[(85)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/420906-ManageEngine-Desktop-Central-MSP/reviews/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Endpoint Central MSP is an on-premise desktop and mobile device management (MDM) solution designed for managed service providers (MSPs) across various industries such as security, infrastructure, information technology and more. Key features include patch management, asset management, power management, pre-defined configurations and remote control. Desktop Central MSP helps users to define system health policies and automate the deployment routines of patches to applications of their clients. The solution also features a mobile device management module that enables users to configure and manage their clients’ mobile devices and IT assets from a central location. Additionally, Desktop Central MSP offers users power management and USB device management capabilities that allow them to apply power schemes to different devices and control the usage of USB devices in the network. Services are offered on an annual subscription basis that includes support via phone, product videos and an online knowledge base.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/420906-ManageEngine-Desktop-Central-MSP/)

### Best rated features:

Automatic Patch Deployment

4.9

Automatic Scans

4.9

Inventory Management

4.7

Network Wide Management

4.7

### Worst rated features:

Security Management

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/420906-ManageEngine-Desktop-Central-MSP/#key-features)

### Basic

$900.00/year

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/420906-ManageEngine-Desktop-Central-MSP/#pricing-and-plans)

[Nanitor](https://www.softwareadvice.com/vulnerability-management/nanitor-profile/)

5.0

[(4)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/vulnerability-management/nanitor-profile/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

The Nanitor vulnerability management solution is designed to simplify the process of real-time detection and proactive response to cybersecurity issues. It focuses on strengthening the security fundamentals of an organization's global IT infrastructure. The platform offers stakeholders unique visibility and control over security challenges, providing a trustworthy solution that is both cost-effective and time-saving compared to alternatives. With the Nanitor platform, organizations can develop a comprehensive understanding of their fundamental security challenges and quantify their cyber-risk. It serves as a foundation for a long-term security strategy, taking into account the organization's technical policy and compliance requirements. This helps avoid potential information loss, service disruption, and reputational damage from the continuously evolving cybersecurity threat landscape. The platform's discovery engine collects real-time data on all assets, which is then filtered through the organization's technical policy and compliance frameworks to generate detailed information on a wide range of security issues. The Nanitor Diamond™ feature presents a prioritized visual overview of these issues, facilitating collaboration in addressing security concerns across the entire organization. Printable reports and managed projects are available to track teams' progress in resolving their assigned issues, ensuring a holistic improvement in the organization's security posture.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/vulnerability-management/nanitor-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Reporting/Analytics

5.0

Vulnerability/Threat Prioritization

4.8

Vulnerability Management

4.8

Vulnerability Protection

4.5

### Worst rated features:

Access Controls/Permissions

4.0

Risk Assessment

4.0

Issue Tracking

4.0

Risk Management

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/vulnerability-management/nanitor-profile/#key-features)

### Yearly subscription based on no of assets

$6.00/year

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/vulnerability-management/nanitor-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

[Ninite Pro](https://www.softwareadvice.com/patch-management/ninite-pro-profile/)

5.0

[(4)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/patch-management/ninite-pro-profile/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Built on the Ninite platform, Ninite Pro is a patch management solution that can be used to patch and secure software in a live web interface. With Ninite Pro, businesses can obtain a real-time interactive view of all machines and utilize simple point-and-click management to issue install/update/uninstall commands for offline/online machines. Ninite Pro is used by NASA, SONY, NIH, Lockheed Martin, Tupperware, and more to secure software only any remote machine. Ninite Pro splits out each machine into a row and each app into a column for intuitive management. Users are able to select an individual cell or multiple cells to update, install, or uninstall an app on a machine. For policy automation, Ninite Pro is able to set auto-update policies to apply updates to any machine at any time of the day. For tag assignments, Ninite will automatically tag machines with their online/offline status. In the Overview Tab, Ninite Pro provides a high-level view of all patched machines and patch updates. For advanced configuration, IT administrators can use Ninite Pro Classic's command line for integrating other tools or scripts. Ninite Pro is a subscription service and pricing is based on machine count.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/patch-management/ninite-pro-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Dashboard

5.0

Real-Time Updates

5.0

Patch Management

5.0

Automatic Patch Deployment

4.8

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/patch-management/ninite-pro-profile/#key-features)

### Basic

$35.00/month

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/patch-management/ninite-pro-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

[RG System Suite](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-service/rg-system-profile/)

4.77

[(13)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-service/rg-system-profile/reviews/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

RG System Suite is a 100% French SaaS platform designed for MSPs who want to centralise, automate and secure the management of their customers' infrastructures. From a single dashboard, you can monitor your fleets, intervene instantly with Assist remote control, strengthen cybersecurity with Bitdefender technology (EDR, MDR, web filtering, etc.) and protect data via Microsoft 365 and Files & Data backup modules. The suite also includes a sovereign, multi-tenant password manager. Hosted in France, GDPR-compliant, easy to deploy and with no commitment, RG System Suite combines performance, sovereignty, proximity and 100% French-speaking support. Try it free for 30 days.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-service/rg-system-profile/)

### Basic

€1.40/month

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/it-service/rg-system-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

[Relution](https://www.softwareadvice.com/mobile-device-management/relution-profile/)

5.0

[(3)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/mobile-device-management/relution-profile/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Available

Software Advice Summary

Relution is a mobile device management solution for data protection-compliant and multi-platform device management. Digital end devices can be controlled and monitored via remote management. In this way, devices can be prepared for use and deployed specifically for the intended purpose. In addition to the necessary functional and technical requirements, the German software also fulfills all legal aspects to ensure device management with data processing that complies with data protection regulations. Relution enables the central and uniform management of different device types such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, computers and multi-touch displays. The platform-independent offering supports the overarching use of common operating systems from Apple (iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS), Android (Enterprise, Classic) and Windows. Relution thus enables trouble-free mixed operation of the devices used.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/mobile-device-management/relution-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Document Management

5.0

Activity Dashboard

5.0

Enrollments/Onboarding

5.0

Activity Tracking

5.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/mobile-device-management/relution-profile/#key-features)

### Free

€0.00/year

\- Shared Cloud or On Premises - Up to 5 devices for an unlimited time - Unlimited in time

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/mobile-device-management/relution-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

[Pulseway](https://www.softwareadvice.com/network-management/pulseway-profile/)

4.68

[(310)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/network-management/pulseway-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Small businesses

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Pulseway is an integrated IT assets and network monitoring solution designed for IT administrators to remotely monitor and control their business IT resources. The solution supports multi-deployment architecture, allowing the users to choose either on-premise deployment or hosting within the cloud. Pulseway allows managed service providers (MSPs) to view the real-time status of their system resources, monitor overall network performance and install critical updates from a central console. The platform helps with defining scripts to automatically schedule maintenance, backup, security check and other IT activities. Pulseway enables users to control devices connected to their network from a single point and monitor their performance. The solution also offers a Rest API for integration with third-party applications. Key Pulseway features: - Monitoring and Management - Discovery and Deployment - Server Management and Monitoring - Automation like Never Before - Out-of-the-box OS & 3rd Party Patching - Unlimited Remote Control for macOS and Windows - Custom Reporting Pulseway is a cross-platform application and can run on multiple operating devices including Windows, Linux, Mac, Android and iOS-based devices. Pulseway is available on a monthly subscription basis that includes support via email, phone and product tutorials.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/network-management/pulseway-profile/)

### Best rated features:

License Management

5.0

Data Storage Management

5.0

Project Management

5.0

Mobile Device Management

5.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/network-management/pulseway-profile/#key-features)

### Monthly

$67.00/month

Up to 20 Endpoints/Devices

### Annual

$44.00/year

When billed annually.

### 3 Years

$27.00

When billed for a 3 year plan.

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/network-management/pulseway-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

1

[2](https://www.softwareadvice.com/patch-management/?page=2)[3](https://www.softwareadvice.com/patch-management/?page=3)[4](https://www.softwareadvice.com/patch-management/?page=4)

## Popular Comparisons

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Action1 vs LogMeIn Central

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N-sight RMM vs MSP360 Backup

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Pulseway vs Kaseya VSA

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There’s no such thing as perfect software. All software is a work in progress. This is true of all software, whether it’s an early beta release—and is expected to have bugs—or is the latest production version of a widely used platform.

When problems are discovered post-release, vendors issue software patches to fix them. Patches are updates to the software’s underlying code made to repair functionality or fix security vulnerabilities. Since they’re issued in response to freshly discovered problems and newly created vulnerabilities, their release doesn’t follow any predictable schedule. As a further complication, the management and installation of patches is the responsibility of the end-user.

Patch management software helps IT teams monitor and manage the deployment of software patches. In this Buyer’s Guide, we discuss:

[What Is Patch Management Software?](#WhatIsPatchManagementSoftware)

[Common Features of Patch Management Software](#CommonFeaturesofPatchManagementSoftware)

[Benefits of Patch Management Software](#BenefitsofPatchManagementSoftware)

[Patch Management Software Best Practices](#PatchManagementSoftwareBestPractices)

## What Is Patch Management Software?

IT departments—even in SMBs that may only have an IT department of one or two people—have been patching software for as long as they’ve been around. Patching software is, in fact, one of the central operations required to keep a company’s IT both up and running as well as safe and secure.

To that last point, it’s been estimated that “99% of exploits are based on vulnerabilities that have already been known to security and IT professionals for at least one year.” (It's Time to Align Your Vulnerability Management Priorities With the Biggest Threats, [Gartner](https://www.gartner.com/document/code/310155?), available to clients.) Only when the vulnerabilities are successfully patched can the risk of falling victim to an exploit be minimized.

Patch management software is designed to simplify and automate various aspects of the patch deployment and monitoring process. It addresses patch management for a variety of IT components, including individual endpoints, servers and network applications.

Because IT varies widely between verticals and company size-tiers, patch management software comes in many shapes and sizes. It’s not uncommon for an enterprise to have several IT teams and find each using different patch management software.

While SMBs have simpler, more focused patch management software needs, they must still search within a highly fragmented and complex patch management software market to find the solution that best meets their needs.

## Common Features of Patch Management Software

This section highlights the central applications of patch management software and provides a good place to begin your search.

**Patch inventory**

Patch management software helps keep track of a company’s IT inventory, including its endpoints (PCs, tablets, POSs etc.), databases, servers and applications. Inventory tools also help track which versions of software are installed on the devices and their patch history.

**Patch catalog**

A repository to store and manage patches active in your company’s IT ecosystem. Catalog tools can automatically download patches from software vendors, ensuring solutions are up to date. They can also help confirm that new patches are necessary and aren’t, for example, superseded by an earlier patch or update.

**Patch prioritization**

Prioritization tools help IT admins determine which patches should receive the most immediate attention, based on the organization’s IT profile. Some prioritization tools incorporate Common Vulnerabilities and Exposure (CVE) ratings to better identify vulnerabilities that need the most immediate attention.

**Patch installation**

Installation tools assist with the deployment and installation of software patches, helping to automate what can be a very time consuming manual process. Apart from saving time, they also increase the quality of patch management processes by minimizing downtime and reducing human error.

**Patch integration**

Patch management tools can often be integrated with other IT service management tools, like [help desks](https://www.softwareadvice.com/help-desk/) and tools for [IT asset management](https://www.softwareadvice.com/help-desk/it-asset-management-comparison/). These integrations can improve workflow efficiencies and provide more transparency into the current state of all of a company’s IT assets.

**Reporting**

These tools report on the current (and historical) state of an IT environment, letting admins see at a glance which patches have and haven’t been implemented. They can also help maintain patch compliance in circumstances where patch installation is left up to end users or individual (non-IT) departments.

## Benefits of Patch Management Software

While we touched on some of the benefits of patch management software in the sections above, here we’ll lay them out in a more organized fashion.

**Improved IT security:** Improved IT security across endpoints, databases and internal networks is the most significant benefit of a successful patch management software deployment. Note that patch management software doesn’t make IT security software unnecessary, but it can improve its effectiveness.

**Better system stability:** Patches do more than just fix security vulnerabilities, they can also restore functionality, prevent errors and ensure that production IT equipments always runs at full capacity. Better systems stability is a benefit that all IT users can appreciate.

**Time savings:** Deploying patches manually can be extremely time consuming. Patch management software greatly reduces this burden. It also saves time for IT end-users by reducing the need for lengthy update processes, re-installations and reduces the need for damage control following a malware infection.

Keep in mind, however, that these benefits are contingent upon proper selection and implementation of patch management software. Some tips for this are in the following section.

## Patch Management Software Best Practices

As with all software, the success of a patch management software implementation depends upon accurate alignment with company-wide goals. Additionally, consider the following best practices when planning your company’s implementation:

-   Avoid using heavily automated patching until you have well-defined standards and process. Haphazard use of automated patching can lead to system instability.
    
-   IT configurations should be tracked or monitored to prevent configuration drift, a problem in which the configuration of production IT grows apart from the configuration of backup and secondary systems.
    
-   Patch management may require occasional cooperation from staff outside the IT department to, for example, test recently patched applications or avoid using certain applications during scheduled patch maintenance windows.
    
-   Cloud-deployed software is typically patched by the software vendor, not end-users, so can be a good alternative if patch management becomes too much of a burden.
    

Patch management can be a significant burden on IT departments, but given the myriad risks associated with using unpatched software, it’s a necessary burden. Careful patch management software selection and implementation can greatly reduce that burden without introducing extra complications.

### Related Patch Management Software

-   [CMDB Software](https://www.softwareadvice.com/cmdb/)
-   [Change Management Software](https://www.softwareadvice.com/change-management/)
-   [Configuration Management Tools Software](https://www.softwareadvice.com/configuration-management/)
-   [Disk Imaging Software](https://www.softwareadvice.com/disk-imaging/)
-   [IT Asset Management Software](https://www.softwareadvice.com/help-desk/it-asset-management-comparison/)
-   [Mobile Device Management Software](https://www.softwareadvice.com/mobile-device-management/)
-   [Mobility Software](https://www.softwareadvice.com/mobility/)
-   [Remote Support Software](https://www.softwareadvice.com/remote-support/)
-   [Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) Software](https://www.softwareadvice.com/unified-endpoint-management/)