What is the primary purpose of patch management?

The primary purpose of patch management is to fix vulnerabilities in software. Software vulnerabilities can be exploited by malicious actors to gain unauthorized access, disrupt services, or exfiltrate data. By implementing a patch management strategy, organizations can ensure that known vulnerabilities are addressed promptly through the application of security patches. This process not only protects the integrity of systems and data but also helps to maintain compliance with security standards and regulations.

While alignment with user preferences, enhancing usability, and streamlining updates are considerations in software management, they do not directly address the core goal of safeguarding systems from security threats. The focus of patch management is centered on mitigating risks posed by vulnerabilities, thereby reinforcing the overall security posture of the organization.