Security Patch Management

Correct Answer: Consistent and timely application of security updates

The best answer is 'Consistent and timely application of security updates.' This is a key benefit of automated patch management tools because:

1. It ensures that systems are regularly updated with the latest security patches.
2. It reduces the risk of human error or oversight in applying updates.
3. It helps maintain a uniform security posture across all systems.

The other options are incorrect:

'Elimination of all potential vulnerabilities in the system' is not accurate. While patch management helps reduce vulnerabilities, it cannot eliminate all potential vulnerabilities, as new ones are constantly discovered.

'Reduced need for regular system backups and disaster recovery plans' is incorrect. Patch management does not replace the need for backups or disaster recovery plans, which are essential for different reasons.

'Automatic generation of custom patches for zero-day exploits' is not a typical feature of automated patch management tools. These tools usually apply patches provided by software vendors, not generate custom patches for new, unknown vulnerabilities.

Correct Answer: Implement a patch management tool

The most appropriate solution is to implement a patch management tool. With the adoption of a new patch management policy, the IT department needs an efficient way to manage and track patches across all systems. A dedicated patch management tool automates the process of identifying, downloading, testing, and deploying patches. It provides centralized control, reporting, and auditing capabilities, making it easier for the IT team to ensure all systems are up to date and compliant with the policy. Manually updating systems weekly is time-consuming, error-prone, and impractical for a large number of systems. Reducing the number of systems does not address the challenges of patch management. The new policy should be followed, not disregarded, to maintain the security and stability of the company's IT infrastructure.

Correct Answer: Enable automatic updates on employee devices

The best answer is to enable automatic updates on employee devices. This ensures that devices are consistently patched with the latest security updates and bug fixes without requiring manual effort from IT staff or employees. Manually updating devices every month is time-consuming and prone to delays or missed updates. Allowing employees to decide when to update leads to inconsistency and potential security risks if critical patches are postponed. Completely ignoring patch updates leaves the company vulnerable to known exploits and threats. Therefore, automating the update process is the most efficient and reliable approach to improve patch management for a small company with limited resources.