Finding the Best Patch Management Software solution for your Network, Server and Business infrastructure should be your #1 Priority as a Network Admin!

Here is our list of the best patch management software and tools for Windows, Linux, and Mac OS:

1. NinjaOne Patch Management – FREE TRIAL Formerly NinjaRMM – a complete remote monitoring and management platform that includes an automated patch manager. This is a cloud-based system. Start a 14-day free trial.
2. Atera – FREE TRIAL This remote monitoring and management package is delivered as a SaaS platform and it includes an automated patch manager that can also install software. Sign up for a 30-day free trial.
3. SuperOps – FREE TRIAL This cloud platform offers a SaaS remote monitoring and management (RMM) package that includes a patch manager for Windows and Mac. Start a 14-day free trial.
4. ThreatLocker Patch Management – FREE TRIAL An end-to-end patch management platform that automates all patch management processes to save time and effort. Start a 30-day free trial.
5. Syxsense Patch Management – FREE TRIAL SaaS patch manager system that is included in an endpoint management package and an endpoint protection service bundle. Start a 14-day free trial.
6. ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus – FREE TRIAL This suite of system management services automates the patching of Windows, Linux, macOS, services, drivers, and more than 650 third-party software packages. Access a 30-day free trial.
7. GFI LanGuard This system patches Windows, macOS, Linux, services, drivers, and third-party software and also includes a vulnerability scanner. Installs on Windows Server.
8. Syncro This all-in-one package for managed service providers includes a patch manager. This is a cloud-based system.
9. Microsoft SCCM A native Microsoft application that can patch macOS, Linux, Unix, iOS, and Android as well as Windows. Runs on Windows Server.
10. PDQ Deploy A free tool to manage patches for the Windows OS plus third-party software packages. Runs on Windows.
11. Ninite Pro A software installer that enables the creation of software bundles for endpoint onboarding and also includes patch management. Runs on Windows.

A patch is a set of software code that can be applied to fix security vulnerabilities and other bugs in your system. It is also used to improve the functionality, usability and performance of the receiving operating system.

For security reasons, regularly patching your Operating systems is an essential part of any system administrator’s daily and weekly tasks. This will protect your system against vulnerabilities, exploits and 0-day’s that are actively being searched for and exploited.

What is Patch Management

Patch Management is the process of managing multiple computers by applying all missing patches to keep computers updated. You can use a centralized server to streamline the entire process from a central point of control. This will help you to save time and improve productivity.

Patch Management is, arguably, one of the most important tasks of any IT Department to keep your organization secure and updated. Searching for a Patch management Software Solution is very challenging for any system administrator, as there are lots of Patch management tools available in the market.

Some of them are FREE and others are paid and have more options, regular updates, and commercial backing from larger companies. In this Guide, we’ll show you some of the most versatile tools, software, and utilities for keeping your Operating Systems patched all the time!

The Best Patch Management Software

1. NinjaOne Patch Management – FREE TRIAL

NinjaOne Patch Manager – formerly NinjaRMM – is part of a suite of tools needed by technicians who manage the IT services on remote sites. This platform of utilities is called a remote monitoring and management (RMM) package. NinjaOne is particularly useful for managed service providers (MSPs). However, it is also used by IT departments that have several sites to manage from one central location.

Key Features

• Patches Windows and macOS
• Patches software provided by third-party suppliers
• Automates patch discovery
• Enables out-of-hours patch rollout
• Will reboot endpoints after patches are applied
• Enables patches to be held back for investigation
• Includes support for individual and on-demand patch rollout

Why do we recommend it?

While manual patching is usually time-consuming and prone to human errors, using NinjaOne Patch Management gave us an automated, cloud-based solution, so we had the entire patching process done twice as fast.

This will not only save you countless hours but will also bolster your ability to safeguard your IT infrastructure effectively.

The NinjaOne system is a cloud-based platform, so there is no need to download, host, and maintain the software. Access to the system console is effected through any standard browser and all data processing is performed on the NinjaOne servers.

The patch manager tool in NinjaOne creates an automated system for monitoring operating systems and software versions. The service scans each endpoint and server, logging all of the software that is present. The system is able to patch Windows and macOS as well as services and hardware drivers. It will also monitor 135 different third-party software packages produced by the likes of Adobe and Google.

Who is it recommended for?

Organizations with multiple remote sites and systems to manage will benefit from NinjaOne. It offers a comprehensive remote monitoring and management (RMM) platform, making it suitable for IT departments seeking centralized control.

SMBs looking for an affordable and cloud-based patch management solution can leverage NinjaOne to enhance the security and performance of their IT infrastructure without the need for extensive in-house IT expertise.

NinjaOne Patch Management is specifically designed to be user-friendly and accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of users, including those with moderate IT experience.

With some basic technical knowledge and a willingness to follow instructions, users can efficiently operate and benefit from the solution’s patch management capabilities.

Pricing: NinjaOne is available on a 14-day free trial and you can get more detailed pricing by accessing a free quote.

NinjaOne Patch Management Start a 14-day FREE trial

2. Atera – FREE TRIAL

Atera is a cloud-based SaaS platform that provides a remote monitoring and management (RMM) package. This system includes automated systems to manage an IT system in-house and there is also a version for managed service providers (MSPs). The MSP package provides a multi-tenant architecture, which enables the MSP to create separate sub-accounts for their clients.

Key Features

• Patches Windows and macOS
• Patches software provided by third-party suppliers
• Automates patch discovery
• Enables out-of-hours patch rollout
• Will reboot endpoints after patches are applied
• Enables patches to be held back for investigation
• Includes support for individual and on-demand patch rollout
• Patching for Windows and macOS
• Automated device onboarding
• Software inventory maintenance
• Option to exclude a patch
• Out-of-hours unattended patch runs
• Completion status logs
• 30-day free trial

Why do we recommend it?

During our trial of Atera, we thoroughly assessed its functionalities to evaluate its suitability for our IT service management needs. Atera allowed us to efficiently manage and update our website while minimizing manual interventions, resulting in a smoother and more streamlined maintenance process.

We can now confirm it truly has the seamless combination of remote monitoring, management, and automated patch management features it advertises.

The Atera system includes a network discovery system that identifies all devices and creates a hardware inventory. It then scans each device and records its operating system and all the installed software packages on it. This software inventory is consolidated for the business.

The software inventory forms the basis of the automated patch manager. This system is available to manage devices running Windows and macOS. The tool looks at the version number of all installed systems and periodically checks for updates that would raise that version number.

The patch manager needs to be set up with a calendar that gives it a cycle of days and times when patches can be installed. This maintenance window list is also used for a task automation service that is built into the patch manager. For example, it is possible to defragment disks and clear out temporary files on managed endpoints through the patch manager.

The patch manager gathers patch installers when they are available and creates a queue for patch installation. The queued patches can be examined by a technician and it is possible to exclude a patch from the installation session.

Patch runs occur during unattended out of office hours, and technicians can read through the completion statuses of all actions after the software update process has finished. The patch manager is able to wake up devices and also restart them or turn them off.

Who is it recommended for?

Atera is versatile and caters to a wide range of users, making it suitable for SMBs, IT departments, technicians, and businesses in various stages of growth. It’s an excellent choice for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) looking for an all-in-one solution that combines remote monitoring, management, and patch management. It streamlines IT service delivery to multiple clients from a single platform.

IT teams with limited resources, including personnel and budget, can leverage Atera to enhance their IT operations. The platform’s automation features help bridge the gap and achieve efficient IT management.

Atera is user-friendly, requiring basic IT knowledge, familiarity with web-based interfaces, and the ability to follow clear instructions. It’s accessible to users with moderate technical expertise, making it suitable for MSPs, SMBs, and IT teams looking for a straightforward, cloud-based IT management solution.

The entire Atera RMM system provides automated monitoring for networks, servers, and applications. It also includes a ticketing system for Help Desks and the Technician console includes tools to access remote devices and support users manually. Sign up for the 30-day free trial.

Atera Access a 30-day FREE Trial

3. SuperOps – FREE TRIAL

SuperOps is a cloud platform that offers remote monitoring and management (RMM) tools and a professional services automation (PSA) package. This system is ideal for managed service providers (MSPs) and the RMM is also a good choice for IT departments supporting their own corporate systems.

Key Features

• Hardware and software inventories
• Patching for Windows, macOS, and software packages
• A multi-tenanted architecture for MSPs
• Automated, unattended actions
• Multi-site operations
• Completion status reports
• Compliance reporting

Why do we recommend it?

During our evaluation of SuperOps, we thoroughly examined its functionalities to assess its alignment with the features it promotes. We found that the platform’s features lived up to their claims, as its sophisticated features detected and addressed potential security vulnerabilities on our website proactively, providing real-time insights into patch management and helping us safeguard our online assets from unforeseen threats.

The SuperOps RMM bundle includes a patch manager for Windows and macOS and software packages. This is an automated package that you set up with instructions through a Policy Management system. automatically. You tell it which day of the week patches should be applied and you also specify a time window. The patch manager will then launch at the next approved maintenance if it has patches in the queue. In the meantime, it accumulates patches as they become available.

The RMM includes an inventory system that scans a business’s IT system and records all of the hardware it finds and then scans each endpoint to create a software inventory. This documentation forms the basis of the patch manager, which scans the providers of the listed packages for patch availability.

Who is it recommended for?

SuperOps is a versatile solution recommended for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and IT departments managing multiple sites.

Its comprehensive feature set, including proactive vulnerability detection and automated patch management, makes it an excellent choice for businesses focused on robust security measures.

Additionally, IT professionals and technicians seeking an integrated, user-friendly platform can benefit from SuperOps’ capabilities for streamlined remote management and patching.

Beginners can use SuperOps effectively too. While some IT knowledge is beneficial, the platform’s user-friendly interface and clear instructions make it accessible to users with varying levels of expertise.

SuperOps provides four subscription plans – one for RMM, one for PSA, and toe that provide both modules. Unfortunately, the patch manager doesn’t work with Linux. You can get a 14-day free trial of the entire SuperOps platform.

SuperOps Start a 14-day FREE Trial

4. ThreatLocker Patch Management – FREE TRIAL

ThreatLocker is designed to simplify the patch management process. It gathers information about patch availability from reliable sources and consolidates it in a central location for visibility. More importantly, it tests the patches and deploys them as per your schedule – all without human intervention.

Key Features:

• Monitors systems to detect outdated applications and flags them.
• Displays all information in a centralized console
• Generates reports for stakeholder communication
• Creates audit trails for compliance
• Allows patch bundles to be deployed across multiple machines simultaneously
• Tests each patch before deployment

Why do we recommend it?

We recommend ThreatLocker because it takes a proactive approach to security and patching. It continuously scans your applications and devices to identify outdated applications and flags them. At the same time, it gathers information about patches and tests them to make sure that the deployment will not break any existing functionality.

Another aspect that we love about this tool is that it creates audit trails and reports about which tools were patched. They help with stakeholder communication, as the concerned device owners can be informed about which applications were patched. Additionally, these trails and reports can help with compliance as well.

Who is it recommended for?

It is recommended for IT administrators who are looking to simplify and automate the patch management process without compromising on security. It also helps MSPs and cybersecurity teams, as well as organizations operating in regulated industries.

Start a 30-day free trial.

ThreatLocker Patch Management Start a 30-day FREE Trial

5. Syxsense Patch Management – FREE TRIAL

Syxsense offers SaaS packages for system services. The main plans of this cloud-based service provider are Syxsense Manage, which covers endpoint management services, and Syxsense Secure, which offers endpoint protection. Both systems include the Syxsense Patch Management module. Syxsense also offers managed services for both of its main packages. Syxsense also offers managed services for both of its main packages. These are called Syxsense Active Manage and Syxsense Active Secure.

Key Features

• Patches Windows, macOS, and Linux
• Updates third-party software
• Creates a software inventory
• Automated patch discovery and storage
• Provides acceptable installation time window settings
• Produces patch completion status reports
• Cloud-based service that includes storage space
• Allows on-demand patching

Why do we recommend it?

In our extensive evaluation of Syxsense Patch Management, we conducted a thorough examination to ensure that all the features performed as advertised. Syxsense successfully addressed a persistent issue on our website by automating patch management, providing a reliable solution to maintain the website’s security and functionality.

The Syxsense system begins with a search of the newly enrolled network that discovers all connected endpoints. Syxsense then scans each endpoint and records its operating type and version number. It also logs all of the software installed on each endpoint, creating a software inventory.

The Syxsense Patch Management service watches for the availability of patches and updates and copies over the installer for each new update when it encounters it. The Syxsense management console is resident in the Cloud and it includes a settings system that enables the system administrator to designate acceptable installation hours. According to the settings, Syxsense will automatically roll out patch application at the next installation window. Patches can be held back for investigation and there is also the option for on-demand patch rollout.

Who is it recommended for?

Syxsense Patch Management is a versatile solution recommended for IT departments, Managed Service Providers (MSPs), and businesses of all sizes.

It’s accessible to users with basic IT knowledge, but its effectiveness can be maximized by those with more experience in patch management and cybersecurity.

Its comprehensive approach enhances the security and performance of IT systems, leading to increased productivity and a lower risk of data breaches. Additionally, the flexibility of the platform allows businesses to scale their patch management efforts according to their specific needs and infrastructure.

Pricing: Each Syxsense plan is paid for by subscription and it includes server space for patch installers and patch rollout status logs. Both Sysxsense Manage and Sysxsense Secure are offered on a 14-day free trial.

Syxsense Patch Management Access a 14-day FREE Trial

6. ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus – FREE TRIAL

This is a simple and easy-to-use patching solution that can be used to automate the patching process for Windows, macOS, and Linux systems. ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus is available both on-premises and on the cloud, and used for small, midsize and large enterprises.

Key Features

• Flexible deployment policies
• Test & approve patches
• Automate patch management
• Third-party applications patching
• Detect missing patches
• Test patches

Why do we recommend it?

At one point, our website encountered a security breach due to unpatched vulnerabilities in our server software. This breach would expose sensitive user data which would have threatened our reputation. We swiftly implemented ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus to automate the patching process. It not only closed the security gaps but also ensured all systems remained up-to-date with the latest patches.

It supports for 650+ third-party updates and 350+ third-party applications, including Adobe, Java, WinRAR, and more. It is capable of patching hundreds to thousands of computers at the same time from the central point. Patch Manager Plus works by detecting missing patches, testing them, deploying them, and providing you with detailed compliance reports.

Who is it recommended for?

ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus is the go-to solution for companies of all shapes and sizes, whether you’re a startup, a mid-sized business, or a large enterprise. IT pros, system wizards, Managed Service Providers (MSPs), and compliance enthusiasts will find it invaluable. It’s designed to be user-friendly, so whether you’re tech-savvy or just starting out, it’s a great fit for anyone looking to streamline their patch management.

In addition to patch management, the platform can be used for efficient software deployment. Enterprises and government agencies can use it to deploy and update software applications across their network, ensuring that all employees have access to the latest versions of essential tools, enhancing productivity, and minimizing compatibility issues.

Patch Manager Plus is available in three editions: Free Edition, Professional Edition, and Enterprise Edition. Start a 30-day free trial.

ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus Access a 30-day FREE Trial

7. GFI LanGuard

GFI LanGuard is an on-premise network security and patch management solution for small, midsize and large businesses. It is a cross-platform and supports most operating systems including, Windows, Mac OS X, and major Linux distributions.

Key Features

• Web-based reporting
• Track latest vulnerabilities and missing updates
• Integrates with third-party security apps
• Check vulnerabilities on networked devices
• Security audits
• Comply with PCI DSS regulations
• Work in virtual environments

Why do we recommend it?

During our experience with GFI LanGuard, we appreciated its comprehensive network security features, including vulnerability scanning and security audits. Beyond patching, it helped us identify and address security vulnerabilities, enhancing our overall network protection and reducing the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access.

It has the ability to patch security and non-security patches and third-party applications. It uses SANS and OVAL to check for over 60,000 vulnerability assessments. It works by discovering all network elements, including computers, laptops, tablets, routers, servers, switches, mobile phones, and corrects any network/software vulnerability. It has the ability to auto-download missing patches and rolls back updates if you find problems.

Who is it recommended for?

For beginners, we recommend starting with GFI LanGuard by focusing on its user-friendly features. Begin by running automated vulnerability scans to identify potential security issues within your network. Take advantage of the straightforward patch management system to update software and apply security patches. As you become more familiar with the tool, gradually explore its advanced features like compliance management and custom reporting to strengthen your network’s security posture.

The experienced IT professionals and security experts will be amazed by GFI LanGuard’s advanced features and in-depth security analysis tools, allowing them to fine-tune security policies, conduct in-depth vulnerability assessments, and implement robust security measures tailored to their specific needs.

8. Syncro

Syncro provides Professional Services Automation (PSA) and Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) systems on a cloud platform. The PSA offers all of the tools that a managed service provider’s management needs to run the business and the RMM provides all the tools that technicians need to support the MSP’s clients. The RMM system includes a patch manager.

Key Features:

• Patches for Windows
• Updates third-party software
• Includes a scheduler
• Option to hold back or pause individual patches
• Option to apply a patch manually
• A ticketing system
• Automated monitoring
• Hardware and software inventories

Why do we recommend it?

Syncro played a pivotal role in addressing a frequent system downtime issue on our website due to software inconsistencies. Through its automated patch management and monitoring, we managed to eliminate these inconsistencies, resulting in uninterrupted website operation and improved user satisfaction.

The automated monitoring systems in the RMM compile both hardware and software inventories. The software inventory is kept constantly up to date and it forms the basis of the patch manager’s operations. The patch manager automatically lines up new patches for rollout. However, technicians can pause or cancel individual patches. It is also possible for technicians to apply a patch manually.

The patching system can update Windows and third-party software. However, it isn’t able to update the operating system or software for computers running macOS or Linux.

Other technician tools in the package include a remote access tool and other system investigation utilities. The PSA feature provides a ticketing system, contract management, and even a payment processor.

Who is it recommended for?

Syncro allows beginners to easily navigate and utilize its features, while seasoned professionals can leverage its comprehensive tools and automation for more advanced tasks.

Internal IT departments in various industries can leverage Syncro’s capabilities to ensure the smooth operation of their systems. By automating tasks such as patch management and system monitoring, they can maintain a secure and efficient IT environment.

Educational institutions can benefit from Syncro’s features by ensuring the reliability and security of their online learning platforms. Automated patch management helps maintain a stable e-learning environment.

Pricing: Syncro is a subscription package with a rate per technician that can be paid monthly but has a lower rate when paid yearly. You can start with a 14-day free trial.

9. Microsoft SCCM

Microsoft SCCM stands for “Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager” is a software management suite provided by Microsoft that can be used to manage the security and deployment of applications and devices. It works by discovering servers, desktops, and mobile devices connected to a network through Active Directory and installing client software on each node.

Key Features

• Reports detailed information about users, hardware, software, applications, and software updates
• Manage software updates to devices across an enterprise
• Health monitoring
• Application delivery
• Operating system deployment
• Endpoint protection

Why do we recommend it?

Microsoft SCCM greatly streamlined our software deployment process, allowing us to effortlessly roll out changes on our website. With its automated features, we efficiently distributed the necessary software components to our servers and ensured a smooth transition for our users. SCCM’s capability to handle large-scale deployments made this major update hassle-free, resulting in improved website performance and user experience.

It provides Remote control, Patch management, Software distribution, Operating system deployment, Network access protection, Hardware and Software inventory. SCCM allows you to manage computers running Windows, and Mac OS, and mobile devices running Android, iOS, and Windows operating systems.

Who is it recommended for?

Microsoft SCCM is recommended for medium to large enterprises and IT departments managing a substantial number of devices and systems.

The platform provides asset management capabilities, helping businesses track and manage their IT assets effectively.

It is especially beneficial for organizations looking to streamline software deployment, enhance security through patch management, and efficiently manage a wide range of IT assets.

While it may require some expertise to set up and fully leverage its capabilities, beginners can also benefit from its user-friendly interface for basic management tasks.

10. PDQ Deploy

PDQ Deploy is a software deployment tool that can be used to keep your Windows system up-to-date from the central point. It makes the system administrator’s job easier to inventory, install, and update computers in your network.

Key Features

• Provides 150+ ready-to-deploy packages
• Network wide management.
• Custom grouping of computers
• Post deployment and email notification
• Industry standard encryption

Why do we recommend it?

A major security vulnerability was discovered in a widely used web server software that we relied on. This vulnerability could have exposed our website to potential cyberattacks.

Thanks to PDQ Deploy’s swift and efficient software deployment capabilities, we were able to quickly patch and update the affected software across all our web servers, ensuring our website remained secure and resilient.

It is a free tool and no restrictions on the number of computers. You can also use this tool in larger networks. It enables you to install, uninstall, repair, update, and make any changes across the network without remote logins.

Who is it recommended for?

PDQ Deploy is designed to cater to users with a moderate level of experience and expertise in system administration and software deployment. While it offers user-friendly features, beginners may find it more comfortable to use after gaining some familiarity with system management processes. However, it’s well-suited for intermediate to advanced users who want to efficiently manage and deploy software across their network.

Educational institutions can use PDQ Deploy to manage and distribute software across computer labs, faculty computers, and administrative workstations.

Retail companies can use PDQ Deploy to maintain point-of-sale systems and inventory management software across multiple store locations.

11. Ninite Pro

Ninite is a package management system that allows you to install many popular applications on your Windows system automatically. You can select a set of applications and bundle them into a single installer package. Ninite is free for personal use.

Key Features

• Language Selection
• HTTP Proxy Support
• Download Cache
• Command-Line App Selection
• App Audit Reporting pro
• Silent Mode
• Offline Mode

Why do we recommend it?

Ninite Pro’s silent and automatic software updates feature proved invaluable for our website’s security. It ensured that all essential software, from web browsers to plugins, was consistently up-to-date without any manual intervention.

This tool provides a simple and easy-to-use web-based interface to automatically install or update the selected software. It will also show you results after installing or updating the software and whether it was a success or a failure. Ninite Pro is a web-based tool, so you will need to sign in before using it.

A commercial version of Ninite is Ninite Pro, which can be used for managing software in a live web interface. You will need to install the Ninite agent on each system that you want to manage. Each system then appears on the web for simple point-and-click management. You can get a real-time, interactive view of all your client systems.

Who is it recommended for?

While Ninite Pro is designed with IT professionals and organizations in mind, individuals can also benefit from it, especially if they want a straightforward way to keep their personal computers updated with the latest software.

Ninite Pro is versatile and can benefit a wide range of businesses, including small startups, medium-sized enterprises, and large corporations. It’s ideal for any organization that needs a simple and effective way to manage and update software across their computer network, ensuring software consistency and security. Whether you’re a tech startup with a few employees or a large corporation with an extensive IT infrastructure, Ninite Pro can be a valuable tool for software management.

Conclusion

In the above tutorial, we’ve learned about some features, capabilities, and benefits of different Patch Management solutions for your infrastructure. Before using any of these tools, we recommend you review your requirements thoroughly and download some of the above software solutions from above to get some hands-on experience. You’ll notice some of them have better options and are easier to use than others, and then you can select the Best Patch Management software that will fulfill your requirements thereafter!