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WSUS has been for a long time the go-to solution for patching Windows machines & apps and is still being used by a lot of companies.
However, given its inflexibility in key patch management areas, companies are always on the lookout for alternatives.
In today’s article, we’ll go over the best WSUS alternatives, competitors, features, pros, cons, and more. Enjoy!
Key Points
- Why Consider WSUS Alternatives?
- Best WSUS Alternatives & Competitors.
- Heimdal® Patch & Asset Management.
- BatchPatch.
- Kaseya VSA.
- NinjaOne.
- Automox.
- ManageEngine Patch Connect Plus.
- N-Able N-Sight.
- PDQ Deploy.
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).
Why Consider WSUS Alternatives?
Although many organizations rely on WSUS or SCCM for patching, such products are limited in their use.
Some IT professionals even consider WSUS to be hard to configure to bring the best out of it in your organization.
And despite being a free solution, by being a Windows Server, configuring your endpoints to work well together with the solution will require a pretty hefty investment in auxiliary equipment and Windows Server licenses.
Moreover, WSUS offers very basic automation and limited reporting features.
Also adding the fact that such solutions only work with Windows OS and are limited regarding patching third-party apps which are not part of the Microsoft environment.
Most modern-day enterprises use apps and OS from multiple parties, so in this case, a more flexible and customizable solution is desirable.
Best WSUS Alternatives & Competitors
1. Heimdal® Patch & Asset Management
When it comes to comparing WSUS with our own Heimdal® Patch & Asset Management, there are similarities, but there are also nuances of differences in terms of possibilities that the solutions provide.
Firstly, Heimdal®’s solution is fully customizable and allows patch deployment on-the-fly, from anywhere in the world, while WSUS has limited remote deployment possibilities.
Heimdal®’s Patch & Asset Management covers a large number of third-party and non-essential OS updates from different app developers.
Also, it holds an inventory of over 200 of the most popular software used by companies always updated and ready for installation.
When it comes to custom scripts, Patch & Asset Management allows complex scripts to be implemented and easily deployed to machines in the network.
On the other hand, WSUS has limited scripting options and its deployment is more complex.
Updates coming from Heimdal®’s solution are delivered fully repackaged, ad-free, and tested from Heimdal®.
We use encrypted packages inside encrypted HTTPS transfer to your endpoints locally, while with WSUS, the encryption possibilities are not as broad.
I use this software on a daily basis, this helps us on so many aspects. Having a lot of tools in one program makes our daily job so much easier and saves us a ton of time – Well worth it!
Heimdal is easy to configure, reliable when installing patches and has all the standard features you’d expect from a patch management solution.
Support and the aftersales team are responsive and know the product well with both happy to offer setup/leading practice advice alongside help for any issues.
After a couple tweaks to our initial setup Microsoft Patch Tuesdays are now a breeze to approve and roll-out across the environment.
Heimdal®’s Key Features
- Vulnerability inventory and CVSS/CVE scores included.
- Admin managed in-app software center.
- Un-installation of supported software.
- Clean, test, and patch in less than 4 hours.
- Https micro-downloads from Heimdal® CDN with LAN P2P.
- Scheduling of updates according to the PC clock.
Heimdal®’s Pros
- Intuitive, easy-to-use dashboard.
- Flexible and easy-to-integrate solution.
- Strong services expertise.
- Completely automated processes.
Heimdal®’s Cons
- Entry-level users might find the administrator portal challenging to navigate.
Heimdal® Pricing
Whether you’re an emerging startup or an established corporation, we provide budget-friendly options tailored for you.
Our pricing tiers cover a broad range from seat counts of 1 to over 20,000 and servers from 1 to more than 100.
The cost of the license varies based on subscription duration: monthly, annually, for 3 years, or for 5 years.
If you want to see our product at work, check out the 30-day free trial.
2. BatchPatch
BatchPatch is a freeware Windows patch management tool that allows you to run custom scripts and to quickly deploy patches across your digital environment.
Key Features
- Update multiple computers at once.
- Install all or specific updates.
- Use BatchPatch with or without WSUS.
- Turn BatchPatch into a central update hub.
- Apply updates to offline computers.
- Consolidate update history into one report.
- Deploy software across networks easily.
- Remotely install MSIs and updates.
- Execute scripts remotely.
Pros
- Efficient updates for multiple computers.
- Customizable options for flexibility.
- Remote management without agent installation.
- Centralized control for software deployment.
Cons
- Difficult for beginners.
- Risk of errors with extensive customization.
- Limited compatibility with some systems.
- Resource-intensive tasks may impact performance.
Pricing
Pricing begins at $399/user.
Testimonials
+ BatchPatch has become an essential tool during our Information Systems maintenance nights.
The ability to download and install updates for all of our servers at once has saved us countless hours and simplified the process of managing our server infrastructure.
Isaac, Information Systems Analyst
3. Kaseya VSA
Kaseya’s VSA platform offers a seamless experience by integrating RMM software, facilitating the management, automation, security, and monitoring of diverse endpoints such as mobile IoTs, VMs, and more.
Key Features
- Discover and monitor all your assets with a network topology map.
- Automate software patch management.
- Automate common IT processes.
- Auto-remediate incidents.
- Leverage remote endpoint management.
Pros
- Enables remote monitoring.
- Offers patch management and policy-based automation.
- User-friendly with customizable interface.
- Allows automation of routine tasks and workflows.
Cons
- Interface may experience occasional sluggishness.
- Complicated and challenging report generation.
- Lacks built-in network monitoring tools.
- Complexity may pose challenges, particularly for users new to IT management tools.
Pricing
Kaseya VSA has a value-based pricing model. For more information, please contact the vendor.
Testimonials
Kaseya VSA Pros
+ We operate a large healthcare organization across multiple states and utilize Kaseya for 24/7 workstation management, software deployment, system reboots, report generation, and remote access.
This tool has been invaluable for our IT department.
The customer service provided by our local representative is exceptional, as he promptly assists us with any issues related to the program or billing.
Kaseya VSA Cons
– Kaseya is a powerful tool that offers extensive functionality, although its usability could be improved.
They have so many options, it’s hard to get your head around everything. I’m a smaller MSP and just can’t afford every option they have. They all have value but it’s hard to make it work.
4. NinjaOne
NinjaOne remote device management tool.
It streamlines various network tasks into one software, making device management easier.
With live device monitoring, it detects issues before they impact users, ensuring smooth operations.
Key Features
- Vulnerability Management.
- Vulnerability Scanning.
- Vulnerability/Threat Prioritization.
- Web Access/Restoration.
- Whitelisting/Blacklisting.
- Workflow Configuration.
- Workflow Management.
Pros
- Great customer support.
- Easy to deploy and implement.
- Offers extensive reports and information on system health.
Cons
- Poor mobile support for end users.
- User interface can be tough to navigate.
- Lack of customization to the ticketing app.
- No possibility to apply policies to filtered groups, only separate per endpoint.
Pricing
NinjaOne offers flexible, per-device pricing, but you will have to contact their representatives to get more information about pricing.
Testimonials
NinjaOne Pros
+ I use NinjaOne daily to monitor dozens of company desktops and laptops.
It’s extremely easy to deploy and install the agent and begin to monitor from afar.
The interface provides detailed and extensive reports and information on system health, status, and usage, and makes the remote troubleshooting process a breeze with TeamViewer integration.
My first step upon arriving in the office is logging into the neat and simple NinjaOne web interface, and I can start my day confidentally knowing all of our devices are up to date with all software/OS updates and fully secured.
We also have a great account manager that actively reaches out to provide any support and information I need.
NinjaOne Cons
– New features coming into the tool sometimes feel like they are first or second draft and often need to be updated in one or more future updates down the road.
While this is frustrating in some cases the updates usually come quickly and often include the improvements needed to make it user friendly or add some of the expected abilities around the feature.
5. Automox
Automox offers a cloud-based IT operations solution designed to automate patch management, configuration, and control across Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints.
Leveraging AI-powered automation, it ensures endpoints are continuously patched, up-to-date, and secure, enhancing cybersecurity and operational efficiency.
Key Features
- Automated Patch Management: Continuous patching for OS and third-party applications, reducing cyber-attack risks.
- Worklets™Catalog: Access to 320 ready-made Worklets for diverse configurations.
- Automated Policy Enforcement: Prevent configuration drift with automated task enforcement.
- Flexible Device Targeting: Target endpoints by attributes like hostname, IP, OS, and custom tags.
- Global Reach: Patch and configure any software, on any endpoint, anywhere in the world.
Pros
- Grouping of servers based on naming conventions.
- Silent installation.
- Endpoint management.
Cons
- No app repository.
- Lack of integration with security tools.
Pricing
- Basic – $3 per month per endpoint (Cloud only).
- Standard – $ 5 per month per endpoint (Cloud only).
- Complete – $7 per month per endpoint (Cloud only).
Testimonials
Automox Pros
+ It doesn’t do things it doesn’t need to. They don’t package a ton of things in the software I don’t want. It’s patch management and software distribution. I really do like the software reporting as well.
Automox Cons
– Reporting is great but could be better when using custom worklets. Output isnt always informative unless you write it to be.
6. ManageEngine Patch Connect Plus
ManageEngine Patch Connect Plus, one of the ConnectWise alternatives, enables IT organizations to set up secure remote work environments.
This platform allows for remote device deployment while upholding high-security standards.
Key Features
- Automated Patching. Deploys patches automatically for timely updates.
- Third-Party Support. Covers third-party applications for full vulnerability management.
- Custom Patching. Creates custom patches for in-house or unsupported software.
- Testing Environment. Offers a safe sandbox for patch testing before deployment.
- Policy-Based Deployment. Sets policies based on patch severity and business needs.
- Detailed Reporting. Generates comprehensive reports on patch status and compliance.
- ITSM Integration. Integrates seamlessly with IT service management tools.
- Access Control. Controls patch management access based on user roles.
- Automated Rollback. Automatically reverts patches in case of deployment issues.
- Patch Repository. Organizes and maintains patch repositories for easy access.
Pros
- Organizes tasks and projects efficiently with automation and tracking.
- Offers comprehensive reporting tools for informed decision-making and performance evaluation.
Cons
- Occasional crashes affect productivity and reliability.
- Infrequent updates may lead to missing features and security patches.
- Outdated documentation causes confusion and inefficiencies.
Pricing
ManageEngine’s pricing starts at $104 per month and goes up to $5614 per month.
Testimonials
ManageEngine Patch Connect Plus Pros
+Using ManageEngine Patch manager plus you can patch your OS like Windows, Linux, MAC OS from centre of location as well as Patch Manager Plus support Microsoft as well as Third party patches.
Also, Patch Manager Plus give different methods of patching i.e Manual patch deployment and Automatic Patch Deployment (APD) from APD you can deploy patches without any human intervention.
Overall you can patch your server, systems from centre of location.
ManageEngine Patch Connect Plus Cons
– We have a lot of ManageEngine products within our company, and we do run into “clunky” behavior with the apps, or we have to take extra steps in processes that could be mitigated through better coding on ME’s part.
7. N-Able N-Sight
N-able N-central provides comprehensive software for MSPs to serve their clients, including RMM solutions like remote access and task automation, as well as endpoint detection and response (EDR) for device security.
It features a disk encryption manager to ensure storage integrity.
Key Features
- Real-time Monitoring. Keeps track of network performance and security.
- Automated Alerts. Sends instant notifications for issues and threats.
- Comprehensive Reporting. Provides detailed reports on network status and security incidents.
- Remote Management. Allows remote control of network devices for troubleshooting.
- Integration. Seamlessly integrates with third-party tools for enhanced functionality.
N-able N-central Pros
- Remote management of multiple PCs.
- Scheduled antivirus scans.
- Server management.
- Provides remote access via Take Control.
- Includes built-in backup management and antivirus tools.
- Offers automation features to enhance operational efficiency.
N-able N-central Cons
- Patch management can be tricky with occasional disruptions.
- Users find customer support slow and unhelpful.
- Learning and customizing it takes time, especially with limited alerts.
N-able N-central Pricing
N-able offers custom pricing plans; for that, you need to contact the sales team.
Testimonials
+ RMM is a great tool which links to many different products. From Take Control, Cove, Patch Management and other products. Having a central system to monitor these things makes management of client devices easy
– Sometimes the errors on the checks are hard to resolve but the online support help.
8. 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
- Efficient Deployment. Saves time by deploying software to multiple computers simultaneously.
- Customizable Packages. Offers tailored deployment options with pre-built and customizable packages.
- Centralized Management. Manages deployments and schedules from one interface for easy administration.
- Community Support. Active user community provides resources and assistance.
Cons
- License Cost. Paid licenses may limit accessibility.
- Learning Curve. New users may need time to learn the software.
- Windows Focus. Primarily designed for Windows environments.
- Network Dependency. Relies on stable network connections for deployment efficiency.
Pricing
PDQ Deploy has two pricing tiers.
- 1 Admin: $500/year (Cloud only).
- 5 Admins: $2,500/year (Cloud only).
Testimonials
PDQ Deploy Pros
+ With PDQ we are able to visualize and coordinate maintenance of over 1600 devices between a relatively small and disparate IT support staff.
By leveraging smart scans on inventory and automating deployments of crucial business software, we are able to eliminate time wasted on mundane, repetitive tasks, freeing up support hours for the more unique problems and most importantly allowing time to be proactive instead of reactive in our organization.
PDQ Deploy Cons
– I would appreciate the ability to have a hold deployment ‘hold’ or wait for the machine to be powered on.
Sometimes we have deployments overnight for clinical updates, and I would like to deployment to not be in a ‘failed’ state if the machine is offline.
I would like it to just try again later that day.
Having a heartbeat deployment is a little different as that just generates a new deployment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is WSUS and how does it help with updates?
WSUS, or Windows Server Update Services, is a tool for managing Windows updates in networks.
It downloads updates from Microsoft, stores them locally, and distributes them to network computers.
2. How does WSUS get updates from Microsoft?
WSUS syncs with Microsoft’s servers to get update information, including what updates are available and their details.
It then downloads new updates to distribute them within the network.
3. What options does WSUS offer for deploying updates?
WSUS allows for automatic approval rules, manual approval, and setting deadlines for update installations.
This gives administrators control over update deployment.
4. How does WSUS ensure updates are installed correctly?
WSUS provides reports to track update installations on network computers, identify missing updates, and troubleshoot issues.
It also logs details about update processes for diagnosing problems.
5. What are the requirements and best practices for WSUS deployment?
Deploying WSUS requires a dedicated Windows Server with specific hardware and software requirements.
Best practices include planning server infrastructure, optimizing synchronization settings, establishing update approval processes, and regular server maintenance.
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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.
