Recently an Australian military helicopter crashed on the beach in New South Wales, the ABC tv network reported that the likely cause of this incident was the failure to apply a software patch to the helicopter.

Thankfully all crew members survived but this serves as an extreme reminder of what can happen to your software systems when you ignore the patches.

Software patching is a crucial component of maintaining a secure and functional IT infrastructure. However, many firms still fail to maintain their software patching updates, leaving their systems vulnerable to cyber attacks and other potential issues. In this article, we will explore the reasons why many firms still fail to maintain their software patching updates, the consequences of this, and what companies can do to ensure all software is patched.

One of the primary reasons why firms fail to maintain their software patching updates is a lack of resources. Maintaining software patching updates requires time, effort, and resources, which can be a significant challenge for smaller or understaffed IT departments. IT departments may have other priorities or projects that they need to focus on, leading them to neglect software patching updates. Another reason for the lack of software patching updates is a lack of awareness of their importance. Some companies may not understand the significance of software patching updates or the potential consequences of failing to maintain them. This may be particularly true for smaller or non-technical companies that do not have dedicated IT staff or expertise. Additionally, companies may be hesitant to perform software patching updates due to concerns about compatibility or potential disruptions to their operations. They may fear that updating software could cause conflicts with other applications or lead to downtime, which could negatively impact their business operations.

Failing to maintain software patching updates can have significant consequences.

• The most significant consequence is an increased risk of cyberattacks. Hackers can exploit unpatched vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to a company’s systems or data, steal sensitive information, or cause system-wide disruptions. Cyberattacks can be costly, both financially and in terms of the company’s reputation.
• Another consequence of failing to maintain software patching updates is non-compliance with industry regulations. Many industries are subject to regulations that require companies to maintain certain levels of data security and privacy. Failing to patch software can put a company in violation of these regulations, leading to fines or legal consequences.
• Failing to patch software can also lead to decreased productivity and efficiency. Outdated software can be slow or prone to errors, which can impact employees’ ability to perform their job duties effectively. Additionally, unpatched software can be susceptible to crashes or other issues that can cause downtime and disrupt business operations.
• Finally, failing to maintain software patching updates can lead to increased costs. Cyberattacks can be costly, and companies may need to invest in additional security measures or pay for legal fees or fines. Additionally, outdated software can be more costly to maintain or replace, leading to increased IT expenses over time.

To ensure all software is patched, companies can take several steps.

• First, they can invest in the necessary resources, such as hiring additional IT staff or outsourcing software patching updates to a third-party provider. Companies can also prioritize software patching updates and establish protocols or automated tools to ensure that updates are regularly performed.
• To address concerns about compatibility or disruptions, companies can perform thorough testing before implementing software patching updates. They can also establish backup systems or redundancies to ensure that business operations can continue in the event of any issues.
• Another important step is to maintain an inventory of all software used by the company. This inventory should include information about the version, release date, and any relevant patches or updates. Having a complete inventory can help companies identify any software that needs patching and ensure that updates are performed promptly.
• Finally, companies should implement a culture of security awareness and education. All employees should be trained on the importance of software patching updates and the risks of failing to maintain them. This education can help create a culture of responsibility and accountability, ensuring that all employees are invested in maintaining the security and functionality of the company’s IT infrastructure.

Maintaining software patching updates is a critical component of maintaining a secure and functional IT network