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Contents:
Patch management tools identify software applications running on outdated versions.
In this article, we’ll discuss the best free and/or open-source patch management tools and what they can do for your business.
Key Points
- Why are Open Source Patch Management Tools Important?
- 8 Best Open Source Patch Management Tools.
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
Why are Open Source Patch Management Tools Important?
Open-Source patch management tools are vital because they close critical security gaps.
Edgescan’s 2024 Vulnerability Statistics Report uncovered several interesting facts regarding this:
- Non-internet facing systems have a significant risk density.
- Mean Time to Remediation (MTTR) for Critical Severity vulnerabilities is 65 days
- 33% of all vulnerabilities across the full stack discovered in 2022 were either High or Critical Severity
- The most common application layer and API vulnerabilities are still Injection related.
- 13.5% of vulnerabilities in an enterprise’s backlog are either high or critical severity.
These are a few of the about statistics covered by the report.
For more additional info, I recommend you read the whole thing.
8 Best Open Source Patch Management Tools
To help you get started on your way towards true vulnerability management, here are eight of the best free and/or open-source patch management tools.
These will give you a sense of what your enterprise needs and who out there cut you the best deal.
Bonus Tool: Heimdal® Patch & Asset Management
Just a quick note before we move on.
I know that our tool is neither free nor open-source, but we do we have a 30-day, no strings attached trial.
If you’re interested in giving us a try, shoot us a note and we’ll get back to you.
Here are some reasons why you should try out our patch management solution.
KEY FEATURES
- Centralized Console. Streamlines patch management through an integrated dashboard. Enables efficient control and overview of software inventories.
- Support for Multiple Platforms.
- Customizable Patching Options. Allows customization of patching schedules, prioritization of user groups.
- Support for Over 180 Applications. Includes ready-to-use support for a wide range of third-party applications, ensuring extensive coverage.
- Swift Patch Deployment. Industry-leading time frame from vendor to user, with a waiting period of less than 4 hours.
- Policy and Compliance Control. Automates software deployment configurations while ensuring compliance standards.
- Infinity Management Add-On. Provides extra automation capabilities for internal software or applications through command-line scripting.
- Strong Data Encryption. Guarantees the security of data in transit with robust encryption techniques.
- Local P2P Patch Distribution. Reduces bandwidth requirements and removes dependence on client-server models.
- Ensured Continuous Compliance. Ensures compliance with key industry standards and regulations.
PROS
- Supports automated patching for Microsoft, third-party, and proprietary software, saving time and reducing manual effort.
- Provides comprehensive software asset inventory and vulnerability management, which helps keep endpoints secure.
- Easy installation and user-friendly interface, with helpful documentation and customer support.
- Allows customized deployment policies and rollback options for better control over updates.
- Works across Windows, Linux, and macOS environments.
CONS
- Reporting capabilities can be inconsistent, with some users finding errors in report data.
- Admin portal can be difficult to navigate initially.
#2 PDQ Deploy
A patch management tool for Windows that can update 3rd party apps and deploy custom scripts.
The solution comes with a package library of over 200 popular applications ready-to-deploy.
KEY FEATURES
- Automatic download and scheduling of software updates via the PDQ Deploy package library.
- Deploy several applications with one click with the nested package feature.
- Patch prioritization and customized scheduling allow you to build your strategy.
- Inventory scan option that reveals the most recent updates made available by developers.
- Failed patch queue feature. On downtime detection, it resumes updates when the connection is re-established.
PROS
- User-friendly interface that simplifies deployment tasks, making it accessible for small IT teams.
- Allows deployment of custom scripts and packages, offering flexibility.
- Integrates well with Active Directory for targeting specific machines or groups.
- Offers a free version with basic features, making it suitable for small-scale operations.
CONS
- Limited reporting features compared to more comprehensive solutions.
- Lacks built-in vulnerability assessment tools, requiring additional software for full endpoint security.
- Not suitable for large-scale environments without the enterprise version.
#3 Comodo
Comodo addresses vulnerabilities that create security weaknesses or system unavailability.
It manages patches for Windows, Linux, and third-party applications.
KEY FEATURES
- Facilitates the tracking and implementation of changes in the system.
- Streamlines the process of installing and deploying patches across various systems.
- Offers tools for auditing and assessing the current patch status and system vulnerabilities.
- Ensures that all devices and software within a network are up-to-date and compliant.
- Discovers all managed endpoints in the network for patch deployment.
PROS
- Provides integration with Comodo’s other security products, like antivirus and firewall.
- Supports a wide range of software, including Windows OS and third-party applications.
- Centralized dashboard for easy management across all endpoints.
CONS
- Can be difficult to configure, especially for non-technical users.
- Customer support has mixed reviews, with some users citing slow response times.
- The user interface can be cluttered and overwhelming.
#4 Miradore
Mirador offers a streamlined approach for maintaining Windows and Mac security and performance.
It focuses on automating the patch management process.
KEY FEATURES
- Automated Patch Management. Automates the patching process for Windows and macOS devices. Reduces the complexity of managing many patches.
- Provides detailed reports and insights on patch releases and installation status.
- Supports a wide range of software products from almost 100 vendors.
- Detection, reporting, testing, and the deployment of patches.
- Addresses security vulnerabilities to prevent breaches. Ensures compliance with regulations like HIPAA and GDPR.
PROS
- Cloud-based solution that simplifies the management of Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices.
- Offers mobile device management (MDM) capabilities alongside patch management.
- Suitable for smaller organizations with budget-friendly pricing.
CONS
- Limited advanced features for complex enterprise environments.
- Does not support as many third-party software patches compared to other solutions.
- Reporting and analytics capabilities are basic.
#5 Local Update Publisher
Is an open-source tool designed to deploy app and updates in a domain or workgroup via a WSUS API.
KEY FEATURES
- Ability to publish applications to a domain or workgroup.
- Facility to create rules defining installation behaviour.
- Capabilities to track the progress of installations.
- Integration with WSUS groups for approvals.
- Use existing WSUS infrastructure and support for many parent and child servers.
PROS
- Integrates directly with Microsoft’s WSUS (Windows Server Update Services), making it familiar for Windows environments.
- Allows deploying patches for third-party applications through a known interface.
- Free, open-source solution suitable for budget-conscious organizations.
CONS
- Requires knowledge of WSUS to set up and maintain.
- Lacks the more advanced features found in commercial solutions, such as extensive reporting and automation.
- Limited to Windows environments.
#6 Ansible
Is an open-source IT automation engine. Use Ansible to automate tasks across various systems and platforms.
Also, it can enhance efficiency and consistency in managing updates and installations.
KEY FEATURES
- Automate the patching and updating process across different Linux distributions. Automation includes tasks like updating system packages and checking for latest versions.
- Uses modules for automating tasks. You can use these to do a wide range of automation tasks.
- One of the distinguishing features of Ansible is its agentless nature. It connects to managed nodes using SSH protocol and executes the necessary tasks.
- Ansible utilizes YAML-based playbooks to orchestrate complex IT processes.
- Execute ad-hoc commands for automating single tasks. Playbooks are also available. Useful for one-time tasks that might not need the reusability of a playbook.
- Use Ansible for system updates, restart systems, and reconnect. Ensures that systems are running the latest software versions. Handles the specific software packages, contributing to a streamlined system management process.
PROS
- Open-source and highly flexible, suitable for a variety of automation tasks beyond patch management.
- Uses playbooks, which allow users to customize automation tasks in a detailed manner.
- Works across various platforms including Windows, Linux, and macOS.
CONS
- Requires scripting knowledge, which may pose a learning curve for new users.
- Lacks out-of-the-box patch management functionalities compared to dedicated solutions.
- Limited built-in reporting and alerting features.
#7 SysWard
Brings ease of use and efficiency to Linux server patch management.
KEY FEATURES
- Support for various Linux operating systems.
- Simplified management of mixed server environments with tools tailored for each supported OS.
- System-wide overview. Grants visibility over pending updates, patch failures, and management of inactive hosts.
- Critical alerts and CVE notifications. Based on installed packages, with options for instant notification via email and chat.
- Patch tracking.
- Safe deployment features using groups and tags for organized and environment-specific patch rollouts.
- Track software patches across many servers.
- One-click upgrades and quick filtering for precise package management.
PROS
- Provides automated patch management and remote monitoring capabilities.
- Includes an easy-to-use dashboard that helps in managing updates.
- Offers additional features such as antivirus integration and device monitoring.
CONS
- Limited brand recognition and community support compared to more established solutions.
- May not offer as many integration options with other IT tools.
- Reporting features are not as comprehensive.
#8 OPSI (Open PC Server Integration)
OPSI is an open-source device management tool that offers key automatic patching features.
This tool is compatible with Windows, Linux, and macOS.
KEY FEATURES
- Automatic software distribution.
- Patch management.
- Automated installation of operating systems (both package and image-based).
- Configuration management.
- Hardware & software inventory management.
PROS
- Open-source solution with strong community support.
- Offers extensive configuration options for deploying software and managing updates.
- Suitable for Linux environments, with cross-platform support.
CONS
- Complex setup process requiring technical expertise.
- User interface is not as polished as commercial products.
- Documentation can be lacking for newer users.
#9 GFI LanGuard
An endpoint protection software which enables you to discover and close vulnerabilities.
It allows admins to scan networks or perform scans on demand.
The tool can also balance the processing load using agents.
This feature improves patching flows.
Admins can also scan networks for missing patches and vulnerabilities.
GFI LanGuard supports Windows, macOS, Linux OS, and third-party applications.
KEY FEATURES
- On-demand and automatic network scanning.
- Deployment and installation of Microsoft Windows and third-party updates or patches.
- MDM features. Can help you set up Android and iOS devices. GFI LanGuard can help you discover mobile vulnerabilities.
- UX-oriented design. The web-based dashboard simplifies logging and reporting. It also offers granular control over what goes on in your endpoints.
- Identify and auto-downloads missing patches and updates.
- Compatible with all vulnerability assessment standards includes SANS Top 20 and OVAL.
PROS
- Combines patch management with network security scanning, offering a holistic approach.
- Supports a wide range of third-party applications and OS patching.
- Provides detailed reports and compliance auditing features.
CONS
- User interface can be outdated and less intuitive.
- Higher pricing compared to other solutions, especially for smaller organizations.
- Setup and configuration can be time-consuming.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is patch management in open source software?
Patch management involves finding, testing, and applying updates to open source software to fix bugs, improve security, or add features.
It also includes tracking changes made by different contributors.
How do you ensure patches are safe and reliable in open source projects?
To ensure patches are safe:
- Verify with cryptographic signatures.
- Conduct thorough code reviews.
- Use automated testing with CI tools.
- Manage dependencies with tools like Snyk or Dependabot.
How do you manage patch deployment in an open source environment?
Managing patch deployment involves:
- Using CI/CD pipelines to automate deployment.
- Staging environments to test patches before production.
- Rolling updates to minimize downtime.
- Monitoring systems to track patch performance and rollback if needed.
What are some challenges in open source patch management, and how can they be handled?
Challenges and solutions include:
- Dependency Issues. Use Docker to isolate environments.
- Security Risks. Use signed commits and security scanners.
- Coordination. Use clear workflows and tools like Slack for communication.
- Testing. Automate testing with CI/CD pipelines.
Cristian is a Content Editor & Creator at Heimdal®, where he developed a deep understanding of the digital threat landscape. His style resonates with both technical and non-technical readers, proof being in his skill of communicating cybersecurity norms effectively, in an easy-to-understand manner.
