Servers are none other than protected vaults for any business, handling everything from sensitive data to critical applications. But they become easy targets for cyber threats and performance hiccups when not updated and patched regularly. Enter server patching—the simple yet important process of applying updates and fixes to keep your servers secure, running smoothly, and one step ahead of potential issues.
Regular and consistent patching is essential, as cyber-attacks occur at an alarming rate. An average of 2,200 attacks happen daily, which equates to a cyber attack every 39 seconds[1]. Without it, your servers could become prime targets for hackers, or your systems might crash when you least expect it.
So to prevent such unfortunate events from happening let’s walk through some best practices for server patching to help keep your infrastructure secure and reliable always.
10 essential server patch management best practices
Patching your server is as necessary as patching your desktops. Below are some necessary server patching best practices you must follow:
1. Categorize your server inventory
Before you dive into patching, it’s important to get a clear picture of what you’re working with. Start by taking stock of all the servers in your environment. Which ones are running which operating systems? What software is installed? And how critical are these servers to your business operations? Categorizing them (such as production servers, development servers, etc.) helps you prioritize patching and apply updates where they’re needed most.
2. Choose the right patch management software
Managing patches manually can be a nightmare, especially if you have a large number of servers. That’s why choosing the right patch management software is so crucial. The right tool will help automate the Windows server patching process, keep track of which patches have been applied, and ensure updates are deployed consistently. Look for a solution that integrates well with your existing systems and provides reporting features so you can monitor everything closely.
3. Set clear patch management guidelines
Having a patch management policy is like having a roadmap for your Windows server patching process. Your policy should include guidelines on when and how patches will be applied, who’s responsible for what, and how to handle unexpected issues. This helps avoid confusion and ensures patches are applied consistently. Make sure your policy also aligns with any regulatory or compliance requirements your business needs to follow.
4. Always have a backup plan
Before you apply any patches, make sure you have a solid backup strategy in place. Even though patches are meant to improve your systems, sometimes things can go wrong. For instance, in November 2024, Windows Server 2022 and Server 2019 systems were inadvertently upgraded to Windows Server 2025 due to misclassified updates[2].
If something unexpected happens, you need to be able to restore your systems quickly. Regular backups of your servers’ data and configurations will give you peace of mind and allow you to recover from any potential issues during the patching process.
5. Create a patching schedule that works
Patching is an ongoing task, not a one-time job. Set up a patching schedule that works for your business. Whether it’s weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, consistency is key. Ideally, apply patches during off-peak hours to minimize disruption to your users. You may also deploy patches around the Patch Tuesday. A set schedule helps ensure that patches aren’t forgotten, and your systems stay up-to-date and secure.
6. Test patches before deploying
Applying an untested patch can lead to the server crashing. To avoid last-minute surprises, always test patches in a non-production or staging environment first. This allows you to spot any issues before they affect your live systems. Testing patches in a safe environment ensures that everything runs smoothly when it’s time to apply them to your production servers.
7. Automate where possible
Patch management can be time-consuming, but automation can make your work much easier. Automating the patching process means ensuring that patches are applied on time, without you having to manually intervene. The right patch management software can automatically schedule, deploy, and even test patches, freeing up your time to focus on other important tasks. Automation also helps reduce human error, ensuring patches are consistently applied across all servers.
8. Apply patches gradually
Rather than applying all patches at once, consider applying them incrementally. Start with critical patches that address major security vulnerabilities, and then move on to less urgent updates. This approach allows you to minimize risk and avoid large-scale problems if something goes wrong. It also gives you more control over the patching process and helps you address issues one step at a time.
9. Monitor and validate post-patching
Once patches are applied, don’t just assume everything is fine. Take the time to validate that your servers are functioning correctly. Monitor them for any signs of trouble, such as slower performance or application crashes. Conducting post-patch checks ensures that everything is working as it should, and it gives you a chance to spot any issues before they become major problems.
10. Keep records and have a rollback plan
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, patches can cause unexpected issues. This is why maintaining records of what patches were applied, when, and to which servers are so important. You should also have a rollback plan in place. If a patch causes problems, you need a quick way to undo it and get things back to normal. Well-documented records and a solid rollback plan ensure that you’re prepared for any roadblocks along the way.
Experience proactive Windows Server patching with ScalefusionUEM
Scalefusion UEM delivers an advanced solution for Windows server patching, ensuring the security, stability, and performance of your enterprise servers. Designed as a UEM-integrated patching tool, Scalefusion simplifies the server patching process for Windows servers while unifying endpoint management. With its comprehensive capabilities, Scalefusion empowers administrators to proactively secure and optimize their Windows server infrastructure, making it the right choice for modern IT environments.
Book a demo to learn more about Scalefusion. Try Scalefusion hands-on with the 14-day free trial today!
References
1. Astra
2. Microsoft
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is server patching process?
The server patching process is about applying updates or fixes (patches) to a server’s operating system and software to address security vulnerabilities, enhance performance, and resolve issues. The process involves identifying servers that need patches, selecting and testing updates in a staging environment, deploying them during off-peak hours to minimize downtime, and monitoring server performance post-deployment. Regular patching is crucial to safeguard servers from security threats, ensure compliance, and maintain optimal performance.
2. How to do patching in the Windows server?
Patching a Windows Server involves applying Microsoft’s latest security updates, bug fixes, and performance improvements from Microsoft. Identify the servers, assess needed updates, and use tools like WSUS or third-party solutions for better control. Test patches in a non-production environment and schedule updates during off-peak hours to reduce downtime. For streamlined patching, consider Scalefusion UEM, which schedules updates and patches and offers unified endpoint management for overall security.
3. How to patch a server?
Servers can be patched manually, via automated patching tools, or through centralized management solutions. Manual patching suits smaller setups, while automated tools streamline updates for larger environments. Cloud-based centralized solutions such as Scalefusion UEM enable IT teams to identify, manage, and deploy patches remotely from a single dashboard.
