What is the main goal of patch management?

What is the main goal of patch management?

• A. To monitor network traffic
• B. To ensure vulnerabilities are fixed by applying updates
• C. To encrypt data at rest
• D. To manage access lists

Answer: (B)

The goal of patch management is to ensure vulnerabilities are fixed by applying updates and patches from vendors to systems and software. Keeping systems current reduces the window of opportunity for attackers who exploit known flaws, strengthening the overall security posture. Patch management also involves discovering what needs patching, testing patches to avoid disrupting operations, deploying them across environments, and verifying successful installation, with prioritization given to critical fixes. Activities like monitoring network traffic, encrypting data at rest, or managing access lists are important security controls, but they address different aspects—visibility and detection, data protection, and access control—not the process of applying fixes through patches.

The goal of patch management is to ensure vulnerabilities are fixed by applying updates and patches from vendors to systems and software. Keeping systems current reduces the window of opportunity for attackers who exploit known flaws, strengthening the overall security posture. Patch management also involves discovering what needs patching, testing patches to avoid disrupting operations, deploying them across environments, and verifying successful installation, with prioritization given to critical fixes. Activities like monitoring network traffic, encrypting data at rest, or managing access lists are important security controls, but they address different aspects—visibility and detection, data protection, and access control—not the process of applying fixes through patches.