Patch management is an essential function for any MSP. But it can be difficult to manually monitor vendor patch releases and update software or devices across a broad client portfolio. That’s why patch management tools are so important.
In this post, we’ll talk about what to look for in patch management software and share the seven best patch management tools for MSPs looking to improve operations in 2024.
What to look for in patch management software
If you search for “patch management software” on G2, you’ll find 70 products that fit the bill. When evaluating which platform is best for your MSP business, consider the following features and functionality.
Support for client operating systems
If your clients use exclusively Windows devices, you could use a patch management tool for Windows. However, if your client portfolio grows, you might also need to manage patches in macOS and Linux environments. Choose software that meets your current needs but doesn’t limit your ability to manage other types of devices.
Automation
Manual patch management is inefficient, and unless you have a team member who actively looks for patch releases every day, it’s easy to miss important updates. And even then, there is always room for human error. Software that automates patch management reduces the risk of human oversight while enabling uniform patch management across environments.
Reboot customization
If you’re applying a patch that requires a reboot, you may want the ability to schedule when that reboot occurs. Customization options in patch management software can help you force, disable, or schedule a reboot for a time when it won’t be disruptive for clients.
Analytics
Part of running a successful MSP is routinely evaluating your performance. Look for patch management software that offers auditing and reporting capabilities, so you can see how quickly you’re deploying patches, and whether your client agreements are in scope. For example, if you see that most of your billable patch management time is assigned to a specific client, you may need to increase your pricing.
Scalability
As your business grows, you’ll be managing more devices and endpoints. Avoid patch management software that limits your ability to serve future clients or charges a fee for adding more endpoints or devices.
7 best patch management tools
Now let’s look at some of the best patch management tools available for 2024.
1. Syncro
Best for: All-in-one patch management for MSPs
Syncro is the best platform for MSP teams that want to manage all client work from a single interface. With PSA, RMM, remote access, IT ticketing functionality, and more, MSP teams can stay organized, quickly respond to client requests, and overall run a more profitable MSP operation.
With Syncro, you can also automate client billing, manage contracts and SLAs, and communicate with clients within the application. You can also integrate Syncro with the tools your team relies on, like Office 365, Intuit Quickbooks, and Slack.
Key features:
- Unlimited PC and Mac endpoints
- Automated patch management
- Community script library
- SNMP monitoring
- Reporting and analytics
- Knowledge base and support community
- Automated data backups
- Remote registry editor
- Remote PowerShell sessions
2. Applivery
Best for: Managing Android and Mac devices
Applivery is a remote device management platform that includes patch management features. With Applivery, MSPs can manage app licensing, configurations, restrictions, and policies.
This platform may be especially useful for MSPs with high-security clients, because it allows for the remote deactivation of screenshots, camera, and Bluetooth. However, Applivery is missing the features MSPs need to manage client billing and contracts, and pricing is based on the number of managed endpoints.
Key features:
- Domain blocking
- In-app client support
- Kiosk mode for Android and iOS
- APIs
3. Patch My PC
Best for: Deploying patches in Microsoft Endpoint Manager
Patch My PC is software that automates third-party updates for ConfigMgr and Intune. It offers multi-tenant management that MSPs can use to manage Intune patches across all clients.
This is another platform that charges MSPs based on the number of endpoints, so it might not be scalable for a rapidly growing client base. It also doesn’t work for iOS devices.
Key features:
- Automatically closes apps before applying updates
- Manual override of app self-updates
- Compliance manager for ConfigMgr
- Knowledge base
- Feature requests
- Custom scripts for environment-specific configurations
4. BatchPatch
Best for: Windows patches and updates
BatchPatch is a tool for remote, high-volume Windows patches and updates, including service packs, feature packs, drivers, and update rollups. Integrated job queues allow MSPs to create a sequence of actions on remote hosts, enabling multiple patch and reboot cycles.
Large companies that use only Windows devices may find BatchPatch improves the efficiency of patch management. But this platform has limited use for small MSPs that need IT ticketing and client management functionality.
Key features:
- Optional cached mode
- Windows update history report for all devices
- Remote processes termination
- Integrated task scheduler
- Uptime indicator
5. Automox
Best for: Automated patching for Windows, Mac, and Linux systems
Automox uses AI to monitor endpoints and determine when patches are required then automatically deploy them. MSPs can also use Automox to remotely deploy or uninstall software on any device and automate patches for more than 500 third-party applications.
Pricing is based on the number of endpoints, with a volume discount for more than 200 devices, and support is a separate service with three pricing tiers.
Key features:
- Cloud-native architecture
- Comprehensive reporting
- Automated vulnerability remediation
- Real-time status reports
- Plug-and-play “Worklets” for common tasks and updates
6. JetPatch
Best for: Creating emergency remediation plans
JetPatch is available as an on-premise, SaaS, or hybrid solution that lets MSPs fix zero-day vulnerability and configure emergency remediation plans. You can also use JetPatch for bulk installs of Linux patches.
This platform includes automated agent management features for quickly adding or removing agents, preventing privilege drift, and restricting server access.
Key features:
- Split patch execution
- Automatic remediation plan rules
- Patch compliance dashboard
- SLA reports
7. FileWave
Best for: Patching mobile devices
FileWave expedites device management using booster technology. This feature serves as a buffer, reducing server load by preloading content from the server and distributing locally to end devices. If an end user accidentally disrupts this process, the correct settings are restored with the next device restart.
Onboarding and training is included in the entry-level service tier, which is a big plus. But MSPs looking for a tool that also manages business operations and SLAs will find FileWave falls short.
Key features:
- End-to-end traffic encryption
- Remote wipe capabilities
- Data dashboards
- Self-service kiosks for end users
Simplify patch management with Syncro
Syncro helps you work more efficiently by including all the features MSPs need to manage their business and serve clients. Whether you’re managing patches across multiple clients, trying to minimize scope creep, or looking to streamline billing, Syncro can help.
With unlimited endpoints, no contracts, and no minimums, you can scale operations with ease. Try Syncro today for free — no credit card required!