Vulnerability Management starts with patching, not scanning

Patch management is not a new topic. Administrators have been working with Patch Days, WSUS, MECM and Intune for years. Nevertheless, attackers repeatedly manage to exploit known vulnerabilities that were patched long ago – often not even in Microsoft products, but in applications manufactured by other manufacturers. This is precisely where there lies enormous potential: by implementing patch management strategically and designing it flexibly, you lay the foundations for effective Vulnerability Management.

Vulnerability Management begins with the patching process

Scanners provide valuable data and highlight vulnerabilities, but they do not resolve them. Genuine risk minimisation takes place where security vulnerabilities are actually closed. Without a proper patching and remediation process, backlogs become overloaded, findings recur and frustration builds amongst the teams.

Microsoft patches: important, but not enough

Microsoft has significantly modernised its update processes. Intune, Autopatch and MECM offer powerful tools. Nevertheless, real-world vulnerability reports show time and again that:

• Critical CVEs: many of these do not affect Windows or Office.

• Attack surfaces: These arise from browsers, PDF readers, Java or agents from other providers.

Patch management that focuses exclusively on Microsoft products therefore falls short.

Third-party software as an underestimated risk

In almost every environment, there is software that was installed at some point but can no longer be traced back to anyone. Outdated versions, a lack of accountability and unclear update strategies make these applications popular targets for attackers. Modern patching processes therefore treat third-party solutions just as rigorously as Microsoft products.

Patching is not always the best solution

Not every vulnerability needs to be patched. Sometimes it makes more sense to remove an insecure tool or replace it with a secure alternative. This is often quicker and more efficient than waiting for an update. A well-thought-out patch management system supports:

• Removal: The targeted removal of unnecessary software.

• Replacement: Replacing insecure programmes with secure alternatives.

• Automation: Automated upgrades to secure versions.

• End of Life: Consistent removal of software for which support has expired.

Continuity rather than panic, integration rather than stand-alone solutions

A common mistake: patch management only comes into play when a critical vulnerability makes the headlines. However, success lies in patching continuously, with fixed cycles, clear priorities and transparent processes. This keeps the baseline stable and allows critical gaps to be closed more quickly.

Patch management should also not be treated as a separate topic, but should be embedded within existing processes. These include:

• Asset management: the basis for prioritising patches.

• Vulnerability scanning: Provides the data basis for the patching process.

• Endpoint management: Technical implementation via Intune or MECM.

• Security operations: For prioritising and Monitoring critical vulnerabilities.

It is only through this integration that patch management becomes an active component of the security strategy rather than merely a compulsory task.

How Mint Secure supports you

Implementation remains challenging in many organisations, particularly when different tools and areas of responsibility are involved. We help companies establish a modern, flexible patch and Vulnerability Management system.