What is the primary goal of patch management?

The primary goal of patch management is to systematically manage updates for software applications and systems. This process involves identifying, acquiring, testing, and installing patches to fix vulnerabilities or bugs in the software. By effectively implementing patch management, organizations can ensure that their systems are protected from known security threats, reduce the risk of exploits or attacks, and maintain compliance with regulatory requirements.

Regular patch management is vital for maintaining the security and functionality of software, as unpatched systems can be especially vulnerable to various types of cyber threats. This approach not only addresses security issues but can also improve system performance and user experience by resolving bugs or issues present in the software.

On the other hand, focusing on aesthetics, selling software licenses, or increasing the number of software applications does not address the critical need for maintaining software security and operational integrity that patch management fulfills.