Ensuring Patch Security and Reliability

By meticulously curating and testing patch metadata, Adaptiva ensures that OneSite Patch delivers hands-free, fully automated patching with unparalleled precision and reliability. 

When deploying patches at speed and scale, the security and reliability of software patches is paramount. At Adaptiva, we take this responsibility seriously, employing a meticulous and robust testing process to guarantee the highest standards of security and functionality for patches in our catalog. This robust metadata foundation allows IT and security teams to define their patching strategies once and then trust that OneSite Patch will execute these strategies flawlessly for both Windows and over 1,600 third-party applications. 

Here’s an inside look at how Adaptiva tests patches to ensure they meet stringent security and performance criteria: 

Isolated Testing Environments 

Adaptiva’s testing process begins in a highly controlled and isolated environment. Each member of our metadata team operates within dedicated virtual machines (VMs) that are completely separated from the master server and their local machines. This isolation is critical in maintaining a secure environment, ensuring that any potential issues during testing do not affect other systems or data. 

Rigorous Virus Scanning 

All patches are subjected to a rigorous virus scanning process. This step is non-negotiable. If even a single detection is found, the patch is immediately blocked. We understand the gravity of deploying potentially harmful software, so this conservative approach helps protect our customers. However, we do provide flexibility; customers can override the block if they choose to deploy a patch despite the detections. 

Comprehensive Patch Testing

Once a patch passes the initial virus scan, it undergoes a series of thorough testing procedures: 

• Installation Check: The first step is to ensure that the patch installs correctly on the target systems. This involves verifying that the installation process is smooth and error-free. 
• Silent Deployment: We verify that the patch can be deployed silently, without requiring user interaction. This is crucial for large-scale deployments where manual intervention is impractical. 
• Upgrade Path Testing: This step involves installing the previous version of the software and then applying the new patch to check for compatibility and ensure a seamless upgrade experience. 
• Repair Testing: We test the patch’s ability to repair any issues it is intended to fix, ensuring it functions correctly without introducing new problems. 
• Uninstallation Check: Finally, we verify that the patch can be uninstalled cleanly. This includes ensuring that no residual files or settings are left behind to maintain system cleanliness and stability.

Error Remediation

During the uninstallation phase, we often encounter instances where files are left behind. Adaptiva’s metadata team captures this information and updates the metadata to handle these cases, ensuring a thorough cleanup. This attention to detail highlights our commitment to providing reliable and comprehensive patch solutions. 

Installation Customizations 

Adaptiva’s metadata team meticulously handles installation customizations, ensuring that each patch is tailored to meet diverse enterprise requirements. This includes applying command-line switches, modifying registry settings, and creating configuration files. By pre-configuring these customizations, Adaptiva eliminates the need for IT teams to manually research and apply them, thus saving considerable time and reducing the risk of errors. This thorough approach ensures that patches not only deploy smoothly but also align perfectly with each organization’s unique operational needs. OneSite Patch’s ability to handle complex customizations effortlessly is a key advantage, providing IT departments with ready-to-deploy patches that integrate seamlessly into their existing environments. 

Reduced Manual Processes and Accelerated Patching 

Rather than your IT team having to manually find, download, package, and test each patch—which can take individuals several hours per patch—Adaptiva’s team ensures that third-party patches are pre-vetted, configured, and ready for deployment.  

By using OneSite Patch, IT departments can avoid the tedious process of researching patch specifics, scripting custom installations, and verifying patch integrity. With Adaptiva’s metadata team’s rigorous and efficient handling of patches, IT departments can ensure quicker, more reliable patch deployments, drastically reducing the typical week-long lag many organizations face. 

Adaptiva’s comprehensive testing process is designed to ensure that every patch we release is secure, reliable, and ready for deployment. Our rigorous testing steps, combined with automated monitoring and a culture of continuous improvement, guarantee that our patches meet the highest standards. In an era where threats are ever-present, Adaptiva’s meticulous approach provides peace of mind to IT and cybersecurity professionals, ensuring their systems remain secure and up to date.  

To learn more about how OneSite Patch can help your IT team save time and accelerate patching, book a demo here.