Patch management fixes known software flaws before attackers exploit them, reducing intrusion risk; prioritize critical systems and verify deployment.
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Background for this topic.
Patch is a software, firmware, or configuration update that fixes a defect, including a vulnerability an attacker could use to gain access, execute code, escalate privileges, or expose data. Patching reduces the exploitable attack surface across operating systems, applications, network devices, and embedded systems; it does not remove risk from unsupported or misconfigured assets, and updates can sometimes introduce compatibility or availability problems.
Effective patch management starts with an accurate inventory and vulnerability assessment, then prioritizes internet-facing systems, high-impact assets, and flaws known to be exploited. Organizations should test updates where practical, deploy them within defined time limits, verify installation, and retain rollback or compensating controls when immediate patching is unsafe. Monitoring vendor advisories and threat intelligence can identify urgent fixes, while documenting exceptions and coverage supports vulnerability management and audit requirements.
Samsung has released software updates to address a critical security flaw in MagicINFO 9 Server that has been actively exploited in the wild
Fortinet has patched a critical security flaw that it said has been exploited as a zero-day in attacks targeting FortiVoice enterprise phone systems
Ivanti has released security updates to address two security flaws in Endpoint Manager Mobile (EPMM) software that have been chained in attacks to gain remote code execution
ASUS has released updates to address two security flaws impacting ASUS DriverHub that, if successfully exploited, could enable an attacker to leverage the software in order to achieve remote code execution