Given the fact that the world is moving faster in the digital environment, it becomes very important to be on top of software and systems. Automated patch management software has become very important to businesses in that it helps automate patch management and minimizes vulnerabilities.
Such tools not only allow for avoiding critical time consumption but also reduce the probability of an incorrect decision, which leads to unfixed vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can use. Since there is such a huge variety of potential solutions out in the marketplace, selecting the proper automated patch management software is crucial in defending critical information while preserving system integrity.
This guide also offers a list of the 15 best automated patch management software that covers all main options, has great business perspectives, and can be easily implemented. These tools bring functionality to complement a small business’s or an enterprise-level IT environment by ensuring it is protected, compliant, and in order without having to do much work.
What is a Patch?
A patch is often a minor code distribution developed by a software vendor to solve various problems for instance security lapses, one or more bugs, increased performance, or the addition of new features. A patch denotes fixing issues that are meant to ensure an operating system an application or any type of software runs efficiently and more securely. They may be necessary for the correction of some defects, for necessary upgrades, or just for small improvements. Patches are commonly known as files that users or systems administrators apply to their software to minimize its fluctuations and risks.
What is Patch Management?
Patch management is the process of identifying where the patches are, getting them, testing, and deploying patches commonly referred to as updates or fixes for applications, operating systems, and devices for security, functional, and performance enhancements. It’s an essential practice in the IT industry to ensure that systems are healthy & secure and not vulnerable to hackers or bugs that cause system breakdowns.
Patch management means identification and continuous search for new patches and maintaining compliance across all systems by implementing them within the stipulated time. This process is managed with automated patch management software most of the time.
How Automated Patch Management Improves IT Security
1. Reduces Vulnerabilities: Automatically searches for security holes to seal the common vulnerabilities that can be exploited.
2. Ensures Timely Updates: Make sure the patch is installed as often as possible eradicating the lapse period whereby the hacker can penetrate.
3. Prevents Zero-Day Attacks: Applies updates to cover newly discovered flaws within hours helping to guard against new unidentified vulnerabilities.
4. Enhances Compliance: Simplifies the process of patching to address the regulatory demands for the security of data.
5. Reduces Human Error: Reduces leakage of vulnerabilities that when done manually create other holes in systems.
6. Minimizes Downtime: Saves the operational time that would be used otherwise in the course of patch deployment in proportion to the level of interruption and loss of efficiency.
7. Centralized Control: It provides the ability to track at one location all security updates for each device and system.
Top 15 Automated Patch Management Software
1. ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus

ManageEngine is one of the most prominent enterprises providing IT management software, ITSM, network monitoring, security, and patch management. It helps organizations with trusted solutions across the globe to streamline IT operations, improving security, and productivity in businesses.
Patch Manager Plus helps automate the process of patching for OS as well as third-party applications by ensuring the system is always safe and up-to-date. Its user-friendly interface and scalability features have made ManageEngine suitable for businesses of any size and sector.
Features:
- More than 350 third-party applications, automatic patch deployment.
- Comprise comprehensive reporting tools for monitoring patch compliance and status of deployments.
- Scheduling options to deploy patches during off-peak hours.
- Integrated vulnerability management system.
- Supports Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Website: https://www.manageengine.com/
Trial: 30-day free trial
2. Ivanti Patch Management

Ivanti Patch Management is a total solution focused on the automation of patching for operating systems, applications, and security vulnerabilities. The tool enables an organization to maintain the best state of its systems in terms of diminishing cyber threats as well as maximizing compliance.
Ivanti delivers a central platform that will enable patches to cross over diverse devices, be it Windows, macOS, or Linux. Ivanti Patch Management offers real-time vulnerability scanning, prioritization of critical patches, and customizable deployment schedules to streamline patch management for businesses of all sizes.
Features:
- More than 100 third-party applications automated patching.
- Risk-based patch prioritization to apply the most needed updates.
- Real-time vulnerability management and scanning.
- Supports Windows, Linux, macOS, and third-party applications.
- Deployable customizable patch schedules.
Website: https://www.ivanti.com/
3. SolarWinds Patch Manager

SolarWinds is a very strong patch management solution to deploy patches automatically on both Microsoft and third-party applications using SolarWinds Patch Manager. Integrating with WSUS and SCCM, its main goal is the smooth management of updates.
Its most critical feature is monitoring patch status in real-time; customizable policies about patch deployment, and reporting tools ensuring compliance and auditing. SolarWinds Patch Manager helps any organization ensure systems are secure, and up-to-date and reduces manual patch management efforts as much as possible.
Features:
- Automatic patching for Microsoft and third-party applications.
- Integration with Microsoft WSUS (Windows Server Update Services).
- Real-time monitoring and reporting on the status of the patches.
- Customizable patch deployment policies.
- Scanning of security vulnerabilities.
Website: https://www.solarwinds.com/
4. GFI LanGuard

GFI LanGuard is a full network security and patch management solution that identifies and fixes vulnerabilities in business systems. It auto-patches the operating system as well as more than 60 third-party applications.
GFI LanGuard has features such as network scanning, risk assessment, detailed reporting, and compliance tracking. This makes it an ideal software for network administrators to maintain the security and performance of systems. The software supports Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Features:
- Automating the patch deployment of over 60 third-party applications.
- Advanced vulnerability scanning and risk assessment.
- Detailed patch management reports for audit compliance.
- Network and security auditing capabilities.
- Compatibility with Windows, Linux, and macOS.
Website: https://www.gfi.com/
5. PDQ Deploy

PDQ Deploy is a powerful and easy patch management software that is designed specifically for IT administrators to automate the deployment of software updates and patches to multiple systems.
It supports hundreds of third-party applications and includes remote deployment options with customizable schedules. PDQ Deploy ensures quick, efficient patching and distribution of software in order to cut down on effort and downtime, making it very suitable for companies of all sizes.
Features:
- Automates the distribution of patches and software updates
- Supports a wide range of third-party applications
- Remote deployments
- Custom deployable schedules
- Simple, intuitive interface
Website:https://www.pdq.com/deploy/
6. Automox

A cloud-based patch management solution, Automox automatizes the procedure of patching operating systems, software, and security vulnerabilities across all endpoints, servers, and devices. It helps modern, dispersed work environments be managed centrally while allowing IT teams to manage deployments from a centralized platform, ignoring the location of the device in question.
In addition, this solution supports all Windows, macOS, and Linux systems and greatly reduces security threats by keeping every system up to date. In fact, with real-time vulnerability detection, customizable patch deployment schedules, and compliance tracking, Automox allows organizations to maintain security and compliance efficiently and with minimal manual intervention.
Features:
- Cloud-based management for flexibility and scalability.
- Automated patching for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Centralized patching dashboard for all endpoints.
- Real-time vulnerability and risk monitoring.
- Compliance reporting and auditing.
Website: https://www.automox.com
7. Shavlik Patch

The Shavlik Patch is patch management software that is targeted at automating the process of patching critical systems, applications, and operating environments. This kind of solution will best be recommended to businesses interested in having a stable solution for both their on-premises and virtual environments.
The Shavlik Patch builds upon real-time patching, vulnerability scanning, and reporting to help organizations ahead of identified potential security risks. It supports many applications, third-party applications included, and integrates well with other IT management systems like ServiceNow. The ease of use along with flexible scheduling and compliance features is the top choice for business for efficient improvement of security posture.
Features:
- Supports Windows and third-party application patching.
- Real-time vulnerability scanning and patch deployment.
- Automatic patch deployment and scheduling.
- Comprehensive patching reports and compliance auditing.
- Integration with popular IT systems like ServiceNow.
Website: https://www.shavlik.com
8. Patch My PC

Patch My PC is one of the straightforward patch management apps that auto-updates over 300 popular third-party applications such as browsers, media players, utilities, etc., which seamlessly works with SCCM and WSUS to make a patch deployment throughout the system smooth.
Through Patch My PC, one would ensure their application was always the newest when it came to security patches so that their risks were minimal. It is an ideal solution for businesses to improve security, as well as reduce manual intervention in software management through its intuitive interface, automated updates, and real-time patch status tracking.
Features:
- Automates patching for over 300 third-party applications.
- Seamless integration with SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager).
- Ability to schedule patch deployments.
- Real-time patch status tracking.
- Simple and intuitive user interface.
Website: https://patchmypc.com
9. BigFix

BigFix is a patch management and endpoint management solution that gives real-time visibility and control to the IT environment of any organization. BigFix supports Windows, macOS, and Linux-based operating systems with automated patch deployment, vulnerability management, and compliance reporting.
The biggest advantage for large enterprises using BigFix is that it is capable of handling complex IT infrastructures in on-premises and cloud environments. BigFix offers businesses improvements in security, and compliance, and streamlines the patch management processes of thousands of endpoints efficiently. A centralized dashboard and granular policy controls and reporting help it make all these differences.
Features:
- Real-time patch deployment and compliance monitoring.
- Supports Windows, macOS, Linux, and other operating systems.
- Detailed vulnerability scanning and reporting.
- Customizable patch deployment policies.
- Integration with security information and event management (SIEM) systems.
Website: https://www.bigfix.com
10. SecPod SanerNow

SecPod SanerNow provides comprehensive endpoint security and patch management by automating the patching of organizations, discovering vulnerabilities, and managing security risks across IT environments. It is equipped with real-time vulnerability scanning, automated deployment of patches on operating systems as well as third-party applications, and also detailed compliance reports.
The central dashboard of SecPod SanerNow gives one visibility into the patch status, vulnerability assessments, and risk management in all endpoints that ensure systems remain secure and updated. With support for Windows, macOS, and Linux as well as the ability to handle the management of devices both on-premise and remotely, SanerNow has become a mighty force in securing security and compliance in modern infrastructures of IT.
Features:
- Automated patching for operating systems and applications.
- Real-time vulnerability scanning and risk assessment.
- Centralized dashboard for managing patch deployment.
- Endpoint security integration.
- Compliance reporting.
Website: https://www.secpod.com
Read Best eCommerce Platforms for Your Business
11. Kaseya VSA

Kaseya VSA is an all-inclusive IT management and patch management solution for managed service providers (MSPs) and IT teams. It has centralized control over patching, system monitoring, and remote management of endpoints across Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems. Kaseya VSA automatically deploys patches, scans vulnerabilities, and creates compliance reports to help organizations stay secure and reduce downtime. It has features such as remote monitoring and system diagnostics combined with backup management, which becomes an all-around solution for any business to enable efficient IT work. It accommodates all businesses at all levels that are interested in automation.
Features:
- Automated patch deployment across multiple devices.
- Real-time patch monitoring and alerts.
- Comprehensive reporting and compliance features.
- Remote management capabilities.
- Multi-platform support.
Website: http://www.kaseya.com
12. Outpost24

Outpost24 is the most comprehensive cybersecurity solution that delivers complete patch management and vulnerability assessment. The solution provides an organization with securing IT and OT(Operational Technology) environments through automatic patching, scanning of vulnerabilities deep down, and real-time visibility into security risks. This will provide IT teams the capability to prioritize patches based on severity and become compliant.
Outpost24 has a feature known as patch management, through which it enables a centralized dashboard to manage various networks. The system supports traditional IT and OT systems, and the solution is perfect for companies looking for a single solution that would help them implement proactive patch management and risk mitigation in complex environments.
Features:
- Automated patch deployment for IT and OT environments.
- Comprehensive vulnerability scanning and patch risk assessment.
- Real-time patch status monitoring.
- Multi-platform support.
Website: https://www.outpost24.com
13. Atera

Atera is a Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) solution that is hosted in the cloud and developed for MSPs together with IT experts. It presents a fully-equipped package of tools for monitoring and remotely managing various IT aspects. Atera provides features of automatic patch deployment, remote control, ticketing, analyzing, and monitoring Windows, MAC, and Linux devices.
It assists in the simplification and optimization of IT processes because of the various tasks that can be performed on an automated basis, the real-time control, and the analysis of results to support decision-making. Its ease of use, capacity, and pricing policy make Atera a perfect option for companies that need to make IT work effectively and efficiently.
Features:
- Monitors and manages endpoints, servers, and networks remotely.
- Automatically deploys software updates and patches across multiple devices.
- Integrates with popular apps like QuickBooks, Office 365, and more.
- Allows IT professionals to manage systems and monitor alerts via mobile devices.
Website: https://www.atera.com
14. ItaSecure

ItaSecure earlier called ITarian presents itself as an all-in-one IT management tool capable of providing Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM), Patch Management, and Cybersecurity services for MSPs and ITs. By so doing, it enables organizations to control their endpoints, networks and systems offsite where they can be checked if they have the necessary security features and are up to date as well as meet the required legal requirements.
The highlights comprise automatic patch management, virus scanning, remote access, ticketing, and tracking. It also avails a cloud-based service desk, real-time notifications along with consolidated reporting which makes ITarian an affordable and effective solution for the management of IT within organizations in the modern business environment.
Features:
- Real-time monitoring
- Automated patch management
- Remote access and troubleshooting
- Ticketing and issue tracking
- Compliance reporting
- Customizable dashboards
- Multi-device support (Windows, macOS, Linux)
Website: https://www.itarian.com
15. NinjaOne Patch Management

NinjaOne is a cloud-based Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) solution created to help MSPs and IT departments keep their management processes as smooth as possible. The patch management function deploys essential security patches to endpoints in an organization automatically, which should keep systems secure and current.
Through NinjaOne, the IT administrators can organize patching, check patch statuses, as well as review patch compliance from a single interface. The software assists Windows, MAC OS, and LINUX surroundings, and performs real-time checking and vulnerability handling. The efficiency of its application and numerous tools make patch management efficient, increase the security level, and avoid frequent interruptions.
Features:
- Automated patch deployment
- Multi-platform support (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Real-time monitoring and alerts
- Centralized dashboard
- Customizable patch schedules
- Compliance tracking and reporting
Website: https://www.ninjaone.com
How to Choose the Right Automated Patch Management Software for Your Organization
The choice of the appropriate automated patch management software is therefore very essential in addressing all the issues of system security, compliance, and efficiency. Here’s how to make an informed decision:
1. Assess Your Needs: Gather information on the size of your IT environment, number of endpoints, Operating Systems and third-party applications that need patching.
2. Compatibility: Make certain that the software can run on all your platforms – Windows, Mac OS, Linux and other cloud/virtual platforms that are used.
3. Ease of Use: Need an easy-to-use interface and options like working real-time dashboards for quick and simplistic monitoring.
4. Automation and Scheduling: Select a tool in which patch management is automatable with configurations of frequency, to avoid direct intervention.
5. Compliance and Reporting: Choose the software that has good reporting abilities for following patch status and its compliance with the regulatory requirements.
6. Security Features: Ensure that the tool has real-time vulnerability assessment and ranking most important patches to attend to.
7. Integration: You need to verify if it works properly with another piece of software, such as remote monitoring and management or IT service management tools.
8. Scalability: Also, make sure that the solution can grow in line with your business when various forms of IT infrastructure are adopted.
9. Cost: Due to the vast array of prices and additional features that are present in the different software, one can substitute the features he cannot afford with those that he can to ensure he finds the best fit.
10. Support and Updates: Select a vendor that can furnish you with timely and efficient customer support and one who updates often due to the arrest of new risks.
From such assessments, it is possible to identify a patch management solution that is suitable for your organization and secure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, automated patch management software is a key factor applied to maintain security, stability, and effectiveness in the contemporary IT environment. Through the automation of the identification, testing, and deployment of the patches, the risk of cyberattacks is minimized, and compliance with various regulatory frameworks will be improved with less time required to restore system functionality. These solutions also do away with the need for human input, and therefore the chance of human error and the time it consumes can be well managed by IT directors.
Furthermore, failure control is centralized, and real-time monitoring is possible, which makes it easy for businesses to know that all equipment is up-to-date and protected. Therefore, with new threats surfacing in the cyber environment, automated patch management is useful in securing safeguards to key systems and averting threats to key data. For small businesses or a large enterprise, the protection of the organization and attaining maximum efficient utilization of resources by investing in a strong patch management solution is exactly what any organization needs to incorporate as it seals the future.
FAQs
What does automated patch management software mean?
Automated patch management software refers to the tool used to identify, test, and deploy fixes to the operating system and application software comprising vulnerabilities, bugs, or performance problems.
Why is automated patch management important?
It enables on-time patching, decreased security risks, shorter time out, and enhanced regulatory requirements compliance without time consumption and human-associated errors.
What are the elements of automated patch management software?
Some of them are vulnerability checkers in real-time mode, automated patch distribution, the possibility to set up the patches’ frequency, compatibility with different operating systems as well as compliance reports.
Which organization should adopt automated patch management software?
The use of patch automation management software can benefit small, medium and large businesses, MSPs and IT departments managing several devices or networks, or remote endpoints.
In what way do the automated patch management tools enhance security?
As it issues quashes susceptibilities and applies severe upgrades and fixes, these programs assist shield the system from various threats, for example, malware, ransomware, and zero-day attacks.