Keeping software up to date sounds simple enough. But when you realize how most organizations run dozens or even hundreds of third-party applications that all update on their own schedules and come with surprises, it suddenly feels far more complex.
A professional patching service or tools becomes a core part of your security routine here. Handled well, it keeps endpoints protected, operations stable, and employees productive. Handled poorly, it can create gaps that attackers love to exploit.
Here’s a practical guide to doing it right.
The Role and Importance of Third-Party Patching
Most companies put a strong focus on OS (Operating System) updates, but cyberattacks usually exploit vulnerabilities in third-party apps. Think browsers, PDF tools, communication apps, and niche software teams rely on every day.
If any one of those apps goes unpatched, the entire environment inherits the risk. And once your ecosystem grows, handling the patching process manually becomes nearly impossible.
That’s why many organizations turn to automated tools or broader security platforms that support third party patching as part of their workflow.
Best Practices for Smooth and Secure Patching
For effective and efficient third-party patching, the best course of action involves:
Starting with a Full Software Inventory
You can’t secure what you don’t know you have. A complete and continuously updated inventory helps you identify every OS and third-party program in use, see which versions are outdated, and understand which apps are high-risk.
Prioritizing Based on Risk
Not all apps matter equally. A vulnerability in an office suite or web browser is far more dangerous than one in a rarely used tool. Prioritization helps your team close the highest-risk gaps first, avoid unnecessary downtime, and stay focused on patches that actually reduce exposure.
Testing Updates
A patch that fixes a vulnerability might also introduce new problems. Testing in a controlled environment helps you catch compatibility issues, broken integrations, and UI changes that confuse end users.
Automating Deployment Where Possible
Manual patching is slow, inconsistent, and almost guaranteed to leave blind spots. Automated tools and software solutions, such as ConnectWise RMM, streamline the process by scanning for missing patches, deploying updates across devices, and reducing human error.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
As with every tool and software, third-party patching also comes with risks. Always avoid:
Ignoring Minor Applications
Attackers don’t care if a tool is niche or rarely used. If it runs in your environment, it’s a potential entry point. Every app deserves visibility, even the rarely opened ones.
Delaying Critical Patches
The longer a vulnerability stays open, the higher the chance of exploitation. Waiting days or weeks can create serious risks.
Relying on Manual Tracking
Spreadsheets and reminders won’t keep up with modern update cycles. Manual processes often result in missed patches, inconsistent timing, or a lack of accountability. Automation reduces these risks significantly.
Having No Rollback Plan
Sometimes, a patch goes wrong. When that happens, you need a way to revert quickly without disrupting entire departments. A rollback plan keeps operations running smoothly instead of contributing to bottlenecks or delays.
