Develop a patch management policy that adheres to corporate change management requirements. Understanding the set of changes conducted to a server or system to improve, update, shore up security vulnerabilities, and remove bugs is often referred to as patching. This action, usually put forward by the vendor, is often automatic in client operating systems.
Create a 250- to 500-word patch management policy that includes the following:
Overview: Present a synopsis of the patching policy along with a stated goal.
Scope: Identify to whom the policy applies.
Quality Assurance Plan: Present a plan that certifies the veracity of the patch and verifies the success of the rollout. Be sure to identify change management requirements for pre- and post-implementation testing.
Frequency: Include a defined schedule for all phases of the patching cycle. Be sure to address procedures for emergency patching and approval of exceptions to the patching schedule.
Rollback/Reversal Procedure: Include a timeline, notifications, and supporting departments. Be sure to identify change management requirements for developing a rollback/reversal plan should a patch not function as desired.
Patching Exceptions: Define the requirements and process for requesting a mitigating control in place of patching.
Authorizing Authority: Identify at least two levels up and include organizational notification requirements for both patching and rollback.
Audit Controls and Management: Document the process that evidences this policy is being followed in accordance with change management tracking requirements.
Full Answer Section
Scope
This policy applies to all IT systems and applications within the corporate network, including workstations, servers, network devices, and software applications. It encompasses both critical and non-critical systems, ensuring that all systems receive necessary patches in a timely manner.
Quality Assurance Plan
To ensure the integrity and effectiveness of patch deployment, a comprehensive quality assurance plan is implemented. This plan includes the following steps:
- Patch Evaluation: Prior to deployment, patches are carefully evaluated to assess their potential impact on system stability and compatibility. This evaluation involves reviewing vendor documentation, conducting compatibility testing in a controlled environment, and consulting with relevant stakeholders.
- Pre-Implementation Testing: Before deploying patches to production systems, pre-implementation testing is conducted in a staging environment that closely mimics the production environment. This testing identifies any potential issues that could arise during the actual rollout.
- Post-Implementation Verification: Following patch deployment, post-implementation verification is performed to confirm the successful installation and functionality of the patches. This verification may involve checking system logs, monitoring system performance, and seeking feedback from users.
Change Management Requirements
In accordance with corporate change management procedures, all patch deployment activities are subject to change management approval. This ensures that the patching process is aligned with overall IT change management practices, minimizing disruption to business operations.
Frequency
Patch deployment is scheduled on a regular basis to ensure timely patching of critical and non-critical vulnerabilities. The patching schedule adheres to the following guidelines:
- Critical Patches: Critical patches, which address severe vulnerabilities that could pose an immediate threat to security, are deployed as soon as they become available.
- Non-Critical Patches: Non-critical patches, which address less severe vulnerabilities or provide enhancements to system stability, are deployed on a weekly or bi-weekly basis.
Emergency Patching
In the event of a critical vulnerability that requires immediate patching, an emergency patching process is followed. This process involves the following steps:
- Vulnerability Assessment: The severity and impact of the vulnerability are assessed to determine the urgency of patching.
- Impact Analysis: Potential impacts of patching on system stability and business operations are evaluated to minimize disruption.
- Emergency Patch Deployment: The patch is deployed to affected systems following the expedited change management process.
Approval of Exceptions
Exceptions to the patching schedule may be requested for specific systems or applications that require additional testing or have unique compatibility considerations. These exceptions must be approved by the relevant IT manager and documented in the change management process.
Rollback/Reversal Procedure
In the event that a patch causes unexpected issues or degrades system performance, a rollback/reversal procedure is implemented. This procedure includes the following steps:
- Problem Identification: The specific issue caused by the patch is carefully identified and documented.
- Rollback/Reversal Plan: A rollback/reversal plan is developed to restore the system to its previous state. This plan includes detailed instructions, timelines, and notification procedures.
- Rollback Execution: The rollback/reversal plan is executed in a controlled manner, minimizing disruption to business operations.
- Post-Rollback Analysis: The root cause of the issue is analyzed to prevent similar problems in the future.
Change Management Requirements for Rollback/Reversal Plan
The development of a rollback/reversal plan is subject to change management procedures to ensure a coordinated and controlled rollback process. This includes review and approval by the relevant IT manager and documentation in the change management system.
Patching Exceptions
In rare instances, exceptions to patching may be granted if the potential risks of patching outweigh the benefits. This decision must be made on a case-by-case basis by a senior IT manager and documented in the change management system. Mitigating controls, such as alternative security measures or workarounds, may be implemented to address vulnerabilities in lieu of patching.
Sample Answer
Patch Management Policy
Overview
The purpose of this patch management policy is to establish a standardized and controlled process for identifying, evaluating, deploying, and verifying patches for software applications and operating systems within our corporate environment. This policy aims to minimize security vulnerabilities, enhance system stability, and optimize overall IT performance by ensuring timely and effective patch deployment.