Best 11 Patch Management Software For Business (2026)

We reviewed 11 patch management platforms on scanning accuracy, deployment automation, and how well each helps teams prioritize the patches that reduce the most risk. Automation depth varied significantly.

Last updated on Jul 1, 2026
Caitlin Harris Written by Caitlin Harris
Craig MacAlpine Technical Review by Craig MacAlpine
Best 11 Patch Management Software For Business (2026)

Patch management is critical. Unpatched endpoints are how attackers get inside. The wrong patch management tool wastes your team’s time on manual deployments, creates false sense of compliance, or breaks systems when deployment goes sideways. The right tool removes the friction so you’re confident every device is current without constantly babysitting the process.

We evaluated multiple patch management platforms for deployment reliability, reporting accuracy, update coverage across operating systems and third-party applications, and the overhead required to keep patches flowing. What we found: the gap between ‘automatic patching’ and ‘patches that actually succeed and don’t break things’ is massive. Some platforms promise third-party app coverage but miss half your software. Others claim full automation but require constant tweaking.

This guide helps you identify which platforms deliver actual patch success, not just the illusion of patching.

What is IT Management?

Patch management is the process of identifying, testing, and deploying software updates across your organization's devices. These updates fix security vulnerabilities, resolve bugs, and improve software performance. Patch management tools automate this process by scanning your endpoints, flagging what needs updating, and deploying patches on schedules you define, so your team doesn't have to manually update each machine or risk leaving vulnerabilities unpatched.

Patch management platforms automate the full update lifecycle across endpoint fleets: vulnerability scanning against CVE databases, risk-based prioritization using CVSS scoring and exploit intelligence, staged deployment through test rings before production rollout, and compliance verification post-deployment. Distribution methods include agent-based push, peer-to-peer relay for bandwidth-constrained sites, and cloud-native delivery for remote endpoints without VPN. Deployment controls cover approval workflows, maintenance window scheduling, reboot suppression, and rollback capabilities. Third-party application patching extends coverage beyond OS updates to browsers, productivity suites, and line-of-business software via curated repositories or package managers like Chocolatey and Winget. Enterprise platforms integrate with vulnerability scanners (Tenable, CrowdStrike, Defender) for risk-correlated prioritization and with SCCM, Intune, or RMM tools for unified endpoint operations. Compliance reporting generates audit-ready records of patch status, deployment history, and remediation timelines against frameworks like GDPR, HIPAA, and ISO 27001.

Patch Management Solutions Compared

This table compares the 11 patch management platforms we reviewed across their core capabilities.

Product Best For Type Staged Rollout Risk Prioritization P2P Distribution 3rd-Party Apps
NinjaOne Patch Management
Automated patching without complexity
RMM Platform
Yes
Yes
No
yes
Datto RMM
Secure, cloud-native RMM
RMM Platform
Yes
No
No
200+
Atera Patch Management
MSPs with unified operations
RMM/PSA Platform
Yes
No
No
yes
Action1 Patch Management
Cloud-native patching with staged rollout
Dedicated Patch Mgmt
Yes
Yes
Yes
630+
Adaptiva OneSite Patch
Enterprise scale across distributed networks
Enterprise Patch Mgmt
Yes
Yes
Yes
20,000+
ESET Vulnerability & Patch Management
Unified security and patch management
Security Platform
Yes
Yes
No
yes
ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus
Wide app coverage for SMBs
Dedicated Patch Mgmt
Yes
Yes
No
850+
Microsoft Intune
Microsoft 365 environments
UEM Platform
Yes
Yes
No
Via Winget
Patch My PC
Extending SCCM/Intune with 3rd-party patching
3rd-Party Add-On
Yes
Yes
No
500+
PDQ Deploy
Fast Windows deployment without complexity
Endpoint Mgmt
No
No
No
500+
SuperOps Patch Management
MSPs wanting AI-powered patch intelligence
RMM/PSA Platform
Yes
Yes
No
Via Chocolatey/Winget

How We Tested

Expert Insights independently researches and tests cybersecurity and IT solutions. We evaluated 10 patch management platforms for deployment success rates, third-party application coverage, staged rollout capabilities, compliance reporting accuracy, and operational overhead. Each platform was assessed through hands-on evaluation of deployment workflows, failure handling, and reporting dashboards. Read our full methodology

NinjaOne Patch Management Logo
NinjaOne

Best for IT teams and MSPs needing reliable automated patching

NinjaOne automates OS and third-party patching for IT teams and MSPs who need reliable updates without dedicated patch management specialists. We were impressed by the granular patch policy controls; you can deploy manually or on schedule, configure forced reboots, and override policies to block bad patches. The platform supports Windows, macOS, and Linux from a single cloud-native console.

Get Free Demo Now
  • Patching dashboard shows which devices have patching enabled, which are fully patched, and which patches have failed with drill-down into pending, approved, rejected, and installed patches
  • Patch Intelligence AI provides CVE and CVSS-based prioritization for approvals
  • Granular patching policies with manual, scheduled, and forced reboot options plus rollback capabilities
  • Lightweight agent runs without slowing endpoints
  • Free unlimited onboarding support and training included with every subscription

We think NinjaOne hits the sweet spot between power and accessibility for small to mid-sized MSPs and internal IT teams. The interface is modern and intuitive, and the automation makes it easy to stay on top of patching without a specialist. Free unlimited onboarding support and training are included with every subscription, which is good to see. The platform also includes endpoint backup, remote control, and software inventory, so you get more than just patching. Something to be aware of is that NinjaOne doesn’t offer software configuration management, only installation and uninstallation.

Strengths
Granular patch policies with manual, scheduled, and forced reboot options
Patch Intelligence AI prioritizes approvals using CVE and CVSS scoring
Lightweight agent runs smoothly without slowing endpoints
Roll back patches when updates cause issues
Free unlimited onboarding support and training included
Cautions
No software configuration management
2.

Datto RMM

Datto RMM Logo
Datto

Best for MSPs and IT teams in the Kaseya/Datto ecosystem needing secure, cloud-native RMM with built-in ransomware detection

Datto RMM is a fully cloud-based RMM solution built for MSPs and IT departments, and owned by Kaseya, one of the most well-known and trusted brands in the MSP space. It’s a full RMM suite, with an automated patch management component, native Microsoft 365 users and Intune devices management, PSA integrations and built-in ransomware detection. It allows teams to monitor and manage all endpoints from a single admin console. Datto RMM stands out for its security-focused design and one-click access to all online services, laptops and desktops.

  • Automated patch management for Windows, macOS, Linux, and third-party applications
  • Policy-based patch deployment with configurable scheduling and automation
  • Third-party app patching via native support
  • Real-time endpoint monitoring with alerting, custom scripts, policies, and IT automation
  • Built-in ransomware detection with active threat monitoring
  • Native Microsoft 365 management module for user and endpoint management
  • HTML5 browser-based remote control for fast access to endpoints and screen share tools
  • Network topology mapping for full network visibility
  • Pre-built integrations with Autotask PSA, IT Glue, and 200+ IT solutions
  • 24/7/365 support with in-product onboarding tools and a certification program
  • Reporting that showcases the value of IT efforts with effective insights and visibility

Datto RMM is a strong choice for IT teams and MSPs looking for a fully cloud-based RMM and patch management solution with strong security controls. It goes beyond standard patch management features, delivering automated ransomware detection and real-time device monitoring in one complete RMM tool. In particular, it supports built-in M365 management, which is rare in other patch and remote management tools. It’s particularly well suited for teams already in the Kaseya or Datto ecosystems, as it integrates with Autotask PSA and Datto SIRIS for cross-surface visibility.

We’d recommend Datto RMM for MSPs and IT teams looking for a secure, cloud-native RMM with strong patch management and built-in ransomware detection, particularly those already using Kaseya or Datto products.

Strengths
Automated, policy-driven patch management
100% cloud-native with no maintenance overhead and easy scaling
Built-in ransomware detection and security-first design
200+ integrations and native Autotask PSA connection
Strong MSP-focused partner community and 24/7 support
Deep integrations with the broader Kaseya/Datto ecosystem, including Datto SIRIS for backup and disaster recovery
Cautions
Pricing not publicly available; requires contacting Datto for a quote
3.

Atera Patch Management

Atera Patch Management Logo
Atera

Best for MSPs wanting consolidated tools with per-technician pricing

Atera bundles patch management into an all-in-one RMM platform with ticketing, remote access, and automation. We think it’s a good fit for MSPs and small IT teams who want consolidated tools instead of separate point solutions. The per-technician pricing eliminates per-device scaling costs, which makes budgeting predictable as you grow.

  • Automates Windows and macOS patching plus third-party apps like Chrome and Zoom with flexible policy controls
  • Real-time scanning flags vulnerabilities immediately when zero-days drop
  • Patch Status Summary and Automation Feedback reports show what failed and why
  • Integrates with Chocolatey for package management and multiple remote access options

Users consistently highlight the clean interface and quick setup, with new techs getting productive fast. Customers say scripting and automation work well for routine tasks, and support responds quickly. With that said, some users note that Splashtop connections fail frequently, forcing fallback to ScreenConnect. Some users also mention that hardware inventory reports bury useful data in poorly formatted summaries.

We think Atera makes sense for small to mid-sized MSPs managing multiple clients who value simplicity over feature depth. The consolidation of RMM, ticketing, and patching under one roof at per-technician pricing is a strong selling point. If you need enterprise-grade reporting customization, you may find it a bit limiting.

Strengths
Per-technician pricing eliminates per-device costs for growing MSPs
All-in-one platform combines RMM, ticketing, and patching
Clean interface gets new technicians productive immediately
Real-time vulnerability scanning catches missing patches early
Cautions
Customers note Splashtop connections fail frequently, requiring fallback tools
Reviews mention hardware inventory reports bury useful data
4.

Action1 Patch Management

Action1 Patch Management Logo
Action1

Best for small-to-medium teams needing cloud-native patching with staged rollout

Action1 delivers cloud-native patch management without on-premises infrastructure. We deployed it across Windows, Mac, and Linux environments, and the design philosophy is clear: keep complexity out of the way. The Update Ring feature is a standout; you can stage patches to test groups before full deployment, with automatic progression and one-click pause if something breaks. If you’re a small to mid-sized team that wants reliable patching without WSUS or SCCM complexity, Action1 is a strong option to consider.

  • Automates updates for Windows, macOS, and 20+ Linux distributions plus 630+ third-party applications from an in-house maintained repository
  • Dashboard shows what actually failed and why, not just what was scheduled
  • Real-time vulnerability scanning flags missing patches with CVE details ranked by severity with auto-remediate, manual approve, or skip options
  • Agent deployment takes roughly five minutes per device via direct download, GPO, Intune, or existing RMM tool
  • Single-pane enterprise view aggregates dashboards and vulnerability visibility across multiple organizations
  • Peer-to-peer patch distribution minimizes bandwidth impact

We are impressed by Action1. In our testing, we found the platform delivers reliable patching without unnecessary admin overhead. The Update Ring feature fully automates staged rollouts, and the setup is very simple; you set the criteria for progression and Action1 handles the rest. The free tier covers 200 endpoints with full functionality and no time limit, which makes it a completely free option for smaller teams and a good starting point for teams of any size to fully evaluate before committing. Granular RBAC lets you define permissions for software deployment, script execution, endpoint access scoping, and organization-level restrictions, which supports least-privilege access without a single super-admin account. If you’re managing 50 to 500+ endpoints and want staged rollouts, cross-organization visibility, and granular controls without heavyweight infrastructure, Action1 deserves a close look.

Strengths
Agent deployment takes roughly five minutes per device with minimal configuration
Free tier covers 200 endpoints with full functionality and no time limit
Update Ring automates staged patch rollouts with automatic progression
Single-pane enterprise view aggregates visibility across multiple organizations
Granular RBAC for deployment approvals, script execution, and endpoint scoping
Linux support covers 20+ distributions across Debian, Red Hat, SUSE, and others
630+ third-party apps maintained in-house with fast version turnaround
Cautions
Mac software library remains narrower than Windows, though the gap is closing
Custom software requires manual updates for new versions
5.

Adaptiva OneSite Patch

Adaptiva OneSite Patch Logo
Adaptiva

Best for enterprises managing 10,000+ endpoints across distributed sites

Adaptiva OneSite Patch handles enterprise-scale patching across distributed networks using peer-to-peer delivery. We were impressed by the P2P architecture, which genuinely solves the distributed enterprise problem; you can deploy gigabyte-sized patches to hundreds of thousands of endpoints without overwhelming network capacity. If you’re managing 10,000+ endpoints across distributed sites with bandwidth constraints, Adaptiva is well worth evaluating.

  • Patch library covers over 20,000 products across Windows, macOS, Linux, servers, drivers, BIOS, and firmware with daily updates
  • Decision-tree automation sets patching strategies based on risk scoring from Microsoft Defender, CrowdStrike Falcon, and Tenable integrations
  • Flex Controls let you pause, cancel, or rollback patches mid-deployment
  • Custom approval workflows add security gates before patches hit production
  • Strong SCCM integration that feels like the missing piece Microsoft should have built

Users consistently highlight exceptional support, with response times measured in minutes or hours, not days. Customers say the P2P distribution drastically reduces network load for globally distributed organizations, with some running it successfully for nearly a decade. Something to be aware of is that the documentation requires portal login and lacks depth for operational troubleshooting. Some users also report that blob-level cache can consume significant local disk space.

We think Adaptiva OneSite Patch justifies evaluation for any enterprise deploying multi-gigabyte patches globally or managing complex SCCM environments. The P2P architecture and exceptional support quality set it apart at enterprise scale. For smaller environments, the investment likely won’t make sense.

Strengths
P2P delivery across hundreds of thousands of endpoints without bandwidth strain
Support responds within minutes with deep technical expertise
Risk-based prioritization via Microsoft Defender, CrowdStrike, and Tenable
Flex Controls for pause, cancel, or rollback mid-deployment
Cautions
Reviews note documentation requires portal login and lacks operational depth
Users report blob-level cache consumes significant local disk space
6.

ESET Vulnerability & Patch Management

ESET Vulnerability & Patch Management Logo
ESET

Best for organizations wanting vulnerability scanning and patching in one security console

ESET is a leading endpoint security and management provider, securing millions of customers and hundreds of thousands of enterprise organizations globally. ESET Vulnerability & Patch Management tracks vulnerabilities across device operating systems and applications, with automated patching via ESET’s integrated endpoint security platform. We think the tight integration with the wider ESET PROTECT platform makes this a strong option for organizations that want vulnerability and patch management alongside endpoint protection in one console.

  • Automatically and continuously scans endpoints and third-party applications, detecting over 35,000 CVEs
  • Support for multiple Windows versions and scanning for thousands of applications including Adobe Acrobat suite and Zoom
  • Reports instantly generated in the admin console, prioritized and filtered by exposure score and severity
  • Fully integrated with the wider ESET PROTECT platform including XDR, server security, full disk encryption, email security, and cloud app protection
  • Managed version of the service available

We think ESET Vulnerability & Patch Management is a strong fit for organizations looking for powerful endpoint security, vulnerability management, and patch management delivered in an easy-to-use, unified admin console. The automated scanning and patching workflows reduce manual remediation effort, and the integration with ESET PROTECT means you can manage endpoint protection and patching from one place. A managed version of the service is also available.

Strengths
Detects over 35,000 CVEs across thousands of applications automatically
Automated patching workflows with customizable scheduling for off-peak deployment
Fully integrated with the ESET PROTECT platform for unified management
Prioritization by exposure score and severity for faster critical remediation
Managed version of the service available
Cautions
Pricing not publicly available; requires contacting ESET for a quote
7.

ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus

ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus Logo
ManageEngine

Best for SMBs needing wide third-party app coverage with compliance reporting

ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus automates patching for Windows, macOS, and Linux systems plus over 850 third-party applications. We found the pre-deployment testing valuable; patches get validated before hitting production, which reduces the break-fix cycle. If you’re an SMB looking for straightforward patch management with solid compliance reporting, ManageEngine is a good option to consider.

  • Scans endpoints for vulnerabilities and deploys patches from a pre-tested repository
  • Customizable policies for scheduling updates during maintenance windows or pushing critical patches immediately
  • Compliance reports track patch status against GDPR, HIPAA, and other data protection standards
  • Both cloud and on-premises deployment options available

Users consistently mention the out-of-the-box simplicity; deployment takes minimal work and the interface makes sense immediately. Customers say cross-platform support across Windows and Linux works reliably, with some organizations running it for nearly a decade. However, some user reviews note that Linux patch management has limitations compared to Windows capabilities. Some users also mention that customization options for advanced workflows feel a bit constrained beyond the standard automation features.

We think ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus fits SMBs managing mixed Windows and Linux environments under 500 endpoints. The free edition covering up to 25 computers makes testing risk-free, and the pricing is accessible for smaller budgets without breaking the bank.

Strengths
Free edition covers up to 25 computers
Pre-deployment testing validates patches before production rollout
Compliance reporting against GDPR, HIPAA, and other standards
Cloud and on-premises deployment options
Cautions
Reviews flag Linux patch management has limitations compared to Windows
Users note customization for advanced workflows feels constrained
8.

Microsoft Intune

Microsoft Intune Logo
Microsoft

Best for organizations deeply invested in the Microsoft ecosystem

Microsoft Intune manages devices and automates Windows Update for Business configuration from a cloud console. We think it makes sense for organizations deeply invested in the Microsoft ecosystem who need unified device and patch management. If you’re already running Microsoft 365, Intune fits naturally without adding separate licensing costs.

  • Automates patch deployment with granular controls for scheduling updates, deferring feature releases, or blocking specific versions while prioritizing security patches
  • Centralized monitoring tracks patch status across corporate and BYOD endpoints with rollback options
  • Integrates with Microsoft 365 apps and Entra ID for identity and policy management
  • Manages Windows, iOS, Android, and macOS devices from a single console

Users consistently praise Intune when they’re already Microsoft-committed; the integration with M365 and Entra ID simplifies policy enforcement and compliance. Customers say it provides a reliable framework for ISO 27001 certification and centralized device management. Something to be aware of is that users coming from full-featured tools like MECM report the reporting lacks customization and feels slow. Some users also note there’s no custom registry scripting or inventory history for advanced endpoint management.

We think Intune is a solid choice for organizations running Microsoft 365 and managing endpoints in cloud-only environments. The $8 per user pricing makes sense when it’s already bundled in your M365 plan. But if you’re coming from MECM, you may find the reporting and application management a bit limiting at enterprise scale.

Strengths
Deep integration with Microsoft 365 and Entra ID
Granular update controls for deferring features and prioritizing security
Cloud-native architecture without on-premises infrastructure
Often bundled with existing M365 licenses
Cautions
Users report reporting lacks customization compared to enterprise patch tools
No custom registry scripting or inventory history
9.

Patch My PC

Patch My PC Logo
Patch My PC

Best for enterprises running ConfigMgr or Intune needing third-party app packaging

Patch My PC automates third-party application packaging and patching for enterprises running Microsoft ConfigMgr or Intune. We were impressed by how it eliminates the packaging grunt work; apps update continuously without building custom packages each time. If you’re managing 1,000+ endpoints with ConfigMgr or Intune and tired of manually packaging third-party apps, Patch My PC is well worth considering.

  • Handles over 500 third-party applications by creating packages directly in ConfigMgr or Intune
  • Automatic retries catch failed patches and push them again without manual intervention
  • Custom pre and post-install scripts tailor deployments to your environment
  • Visual dashboards show patch compliance and security posture across your fleet

Users consistently describe Patch My PC as set and forget software; configure once, then it runs continuously without babysitting. Customers say it handles the ancillary applications every company has but nobody owns, streamlining them alongside Microsoft updates. The onboarding process gets praised for speed and support help during configuration. With that said, some users note that certain applications are harder to update, though customers clarify that’s typically the application vendor’s issue.

We think the time savings justify the per-device annual cost when you calculate staff hours returned to security teams. Patch My PC removes the manual packaging burden that slows down most enterprise patching workflows. But if you’re not running ConfigMgr or Intune, this won’t fit your environment.

Strengths
Eliminates manual app packaging directly in ConfigMgr and Intune
Automatic retry logic for failed patches
Handles 500+ third-party apps from a unified dashboard
Quick onboarding with strong support
Cautions
Requires existing ConfigMgr or Intune infrastructure
Reviews note some apps are harder to update due to vendor packaging practices
10.

PDQ Deploy

PDQ Deploy Logo
PDQ

Best for IT teams wanting straightforward Windows automation

PDQ Deploy automates patch deployment and software management for Windows environments. We found the scheduling flexible; you can deploy during maintenance windows or automatically when offline devices reconnect. If you’re managing Windows devices and want straightforward automation without complex agent infrastructure, PDQ is a strong option.

  • Package Library includes 500+ pre-built, pre-tested packages for common apps plus custom package support
  • Active Directory integration targets specific groups or OUs without manual device lists
  • Automatic retries catch failed deployments and push them again
  • Notifications via email, Slack, or Teams alert when updates complete or fail
  • PDQ Connect extends to cloud-native management for remote Windows and macOS fleets without VPN

Users consistently describe PDQ as capable and use it for software management, version management, vulnerability tracking, and patching. Setup is easy with helpful documentation and forum discussions. Small IT teams mention it automates application, Windows, and server updates on schedules without manual deployment. Something to be aware of is that migrating from the on-premises version to the cloud version requires some workflow adaptation.

We think the pre-built package library and easy custom package creation justify attention from teams tired of manually deploying updates. The per-admin pricing model keeps costs predictable as your device fleet grows. If you need cross-platform support beyond Windows, PDQ Connect now extends to macOS, though Linux remains unsupported.

Strengths
500+ pre-built packages eliminating manual packaging
Per-admin pricing without per-device costs
Active Directory integration for targeting specific groups
Automatic retry logic for failed deployments
Cautions
No Linux support
Customers note cloud migration requires workflow adaptation
11.

SuperOps Patch Management

SuperOps Patch Management Logo
SuperOps

Best for MSPs wanting unified PSA, RMM, and patching with AI intelligence

SuperOps combines RMM, PSA, and patch management in a unified platform for MSPs. We found the testing workflow practical; you can validate patches on internal systems before pushing to client environments, which catches problems before they affect billable customers. If you’re an MSP managing multiple clients and want everything under one roof without per-device costs, SuperOps is a good option to consider.

  • Automates Windows and macOS patching with policy-based controls at client, site, or asset level
  • Critical patches deploy instantly while non-critical updates stage gradually
  • Reporting tracks endpoint health, patch status, and compliance with filters for patch type and status
  • Integrations with Splashtop, Bitdefender, and SentinelOne keep security and remote access accessible from the same interface
  • New assets automatically patch via predefined policies during onboarding

Users consistently highlight phenomenal support that outpaces other RMM/PSA platforms, with responses within minutes or hours. Customers say remote shells and scripting work correctly without the quirks other tools have. The included ISL Online remote access gets compared favorably to more established alternatives. However, some customer reviews note that network-wide deployment requires purchasing an additional networking add-on. Some users also mention that the Android app is missing key functions available in the web interface.

We think SuperOps makes sense for MSPs prioritizing support quality and interface simplicity over feature depth. The $99 per technician for the base plan makes it competitive when replacing separate RMM and PSA subscriptions. If you need specialized quoting tools or run large single-tenant environments, you may find it a bit limiting.

Strengths
Unified interface for RMM, PSA, and patching
Support responds within minutes with quick resolution
Policy-based automation at client, site, or asset level
Per-technician pricing across unlimited endpoints
Cautions
Reviews note network-wide deployment requires an additional add-on
Users mention the Android app is missing key web interface functions

Other Patch Management Services

12
Chocolatey for Business

A package manager that enables IT teams to manage all software deployments, updates, and removals across their Windows environments via a single interface, rather than having to monitor them individually.

13
GFI Languard

A patch management, auditing and vulnerability scanning solution designed to give organizations increased visibility into the state of their endpoints, and help them to identify and patch vulnerabilities.

14
Ivanti Patch

A range of patch management solutions that supports a wide range of operating systems across remote, physical and virtual devices, as well as third-party applications, including the Microsoft 365 Suite and Java, and internet browsers.

15
Robopack

A full-featured patch and packaging management tool that's free for organizations with less than 100 users. While Robopack is currently a relatively small company, they're definitely one to watch out for.

16
Syxsense Manage

A combined endpoint management, vulnerability scanning and patch deployment solution that enables IT teams to automate patch deployment across all the devices connected to their network via one holistic platform.

Patch Management Pricing

Patch management pricing varies by platform type. Dedicated patching tools use per-device pricing, RMM platforms bundle patching into per-technician plans, and enterprise solutions use custom quoting. The table below reflects what we verified through research.

Product Starting Price Billing Link
NinjaOne Patch Management
Contact for quote (per-endpoint)
Monthly
Datto RMM
Contact for quote
Atera Patch Management
From $129/technician/month (MSP); $149/technician/month (IT dept)
Annual
Action1 Patch Management
Free (up to 200 endpoints); from $4/endpoint/month (Growth)
Monthly or annual
Adaptiva OneSite Patch
Contact for quote
Annual
ESET Vulnerability & Patch Management
Contact for quote (add-on to ESET Protect)
Annual
ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus
Free (up to 25 endpoints); paid plans from under $1/endpoint/month
Annual
Microsoft Intune
From $8/user/month (Plan 1); bundled in M365 E3/E5
Monthly or annual
Patch My PC
From $2/device/year (Enterprise Patch)
Annual
PDQ Deploy
From $12/device/year (Connect Basic); 100-device minimum
Annual
SuperOps Patch Management
From $99/technician/month (base plan)
Annual

Patch Management Checklist

These are the configuration and operational steps we recommend when deploying a patch management platform.

The gap between claimed and actual patch success is massive; testing with your real applications catches compatibility issues before they affect production.

500 claimed applications often means 200 that work reliably for your specific versions; check your critical business apps before committing.

Deploying patches to your entire fleet simultaneously means a bad update breaks everything at once; test rings reduce the blast radius.

Security patches close active vulnerability windows and should deploy fast; feature updates carry higher break risk and benefit from human review.

Downloading the same gigabyte patch to every device from a central server wastes bandwidth; P2P distribution lets endpoints share updates locally.

Some platforms force full deployment completion before rollback is possible; testing rollback confirms you can undo a bad patch quickly when it matters.

Auditors want to see what is patched and what failed, not what was scheduled; dashboards that hide failures behind green checkmarks create false confidence.

Patching everything equally wastes time; correlating patch status against known exploits focuses your team on the updates that reduce the most risk.

Patches that trigger mid-day reboots frustrate users and create helpdesk tickets; off-hours scheduling with reboot control keeps updates invisible.

Patches that fail silently on the same endpoints every cycle indicate an underlying issue that won't resolve itself without investigation.

The Bottom Line

No single patch management solution fits every organization.

For small to mid-sized teams without dedicated patch specialists, NinjaOne automates Windows, macOS, and Linux patching plus 135 third-party apps without enterprise complexity. The lightweight agent and real-time dashboards hit the sweet spot between power and simplicity.

If you’re an MSP consolidating tools, Atera bundles RMM, ticketing, and patching in one platform at per-technician pricing. Eliminate tool-switching without sacrificing capability.

For straightforward cloud-native patching with staged rollout protection, Action1 stages patches to test groups before full deployment. The free tier for 200 endpoints makes it accessible for budget-conscious teams.

For enterprises managing distributed networks at scale, Adaptiva OneSite Patch deploys gigabyte patches across hundreds of thousands of endpoints using peer-to-peer distribution. The support quality matters at this scale and customers report it’s exceptional.

For Windows-only environments, PDQ Deploy offers straightforward automation with 500+ pre-built packages and per-admin pricing that scales with your team size.

Read the individual reviews above to dig into deployment specifics, application coverage, and the trade-offs that matter for your team’s maturity level and infrastructure complexity.

Patch Management: Everything You Need To Know (FAQs)

A software patch (or “bug fix”) is a sequence of code designed to update, improve, or fix a computer program or application. A patch can also be used to add new features to a program.

In other words, it “patches” up a hole or makes the original program stronger, like a fabric patch would on a worn pair of jeans.

Patch management is the process of monitoring all the devices and software applications connected to your network for vulnerabilities, then applying the correct patch to any vulnerabilities you discover.

Usually, patch management is handled by an individual, team, or an automated software solution like those in this shortlist.

There are three main stages involved in patch management:

  • Identifying which machines and apps need updating
  • Locating the relevant patch from the provider’s website
  • Installing that patch on each machine

A patch management solution downloads patches on your behalf and distributes them automatically in line with policies that you configure. It also alerts you to unsuccessful patch deployments, and usually offers a roll-back feature to remove a patch if it isn’t working correctly.

Not patching your software can cause it to run inefficiently or, worse, provide a backdoor for cybercriminals to enter your network. So, it’s important for you to deploy your patches.

But you also need to make sure you deploy them as soon as possible after they’re made available.

Newly released patches often come with the disclosure of the security risk the patch is designed to fix. For attackers, this information is a gift; instead of spending time and energy attempting to uncover vulnerabilities, they can simply read up on the latest patch for a third-party component and specifically target those users.

We understand that you’re very busy and have lots of work to get on with, and that might mean that patching just isn’t at the top of your priority list—but unfortunately, attackers know this too, and they’re more than happy to exploit that.

To help avoid that, we recommend implementing a patch management tool that will identify vulnerabilities, locate the right patch, test that patch, and finally deploy it for you.

Automating patch management offers several benefits:

  • Increased efficiency: Automation reduces the time and effort required to apply patches.
  • Improved accuracy: Automated systems are less prone to human error, ensuring that patches are applied correctly and consistently.
  • Enhanced security: Automation helps ensure that patches are applied in a timely manner, reducing the window of vulnerability.
  • Reduced downtime: Automated patch management can often be performed during off-peak hours, minimizing disruption to business operations.
  • Better compliance: Automation can help organizations maintain a consistent patching schedule, making it easier to comply with regulatory requirements.

Organizations often face several challenges in patch management, including:

  • Patch volume and frequency: The increasing number of patches and the frequency of their release can overwhelm IT teams.
  • Compatibility issues: Patches can sometimes cause conflicts with existing systems or applications.
  • Downtime requirements: Patch installations may require system reboots, leading to downtime.
  • Lack of visibility: Organizations may not have a complete inventory of all systems and software that need to be patched.
  • Resource constraints: Limited IT staff and budgets can make it difficult to effectively manage the patching process.

IT Management Resources

Further reading on it management from Expert Insights — buyers' guides, comparison articles, and platform-specific shortlists.

Written By Written By
Caitlin Harris
Caitlin Harris Deputy Head Of Content

Caitlin Harris is the Deputy Head of Content at Expert Insights. As an experienced content writer and editor, Caitlin helps cybersecurity leaders to cut through the noise in the cybersecurity space with expert analysis and insightful recommendations.

Prior to Expert Insights, Caitlin worked at QA Ltd, where she produced award-winning technical training materials, and she has also produced journalistic content over the course of her career.

Caitlin has 8 years of experience in the cybersecurity and technology space, helping technical teams, CISOs, and security professionals find clarity on complex, mission critical topics like security awareness training, backup and recovery, and endpoint protection.

Caitlin also hosts the Expert Insights Podcast and co-writes the weekly newsletter, Decrypted.

Technical Review Technical Review
Craig MacAlpine CEO and Founder

Craig MacAlpine is CEO and Founder of Expert Insights. Before founding Expert Insights in August 2018, Craig spent 10 years as CEO of EPA Cloud, an email security provider that rebranded as VIPRE Email Security following its acquisition by Ziff Davis, formerly J2Global (NASDAQ: ZD) in 2013.

Craig is a passionate security innovator with over 20 years of experience helping organizations to stay secure with cutting-edge information security and cybersecurity solutions.

Using his extensive experience in the email security industry, he founded Expert Insights with the singular goal of helping IT professionals and CISOs to cut through the noise and find the right cybersecurity solutions they need to protect their organizations.