Short answer: Patch management is the process of regularly and controllably distributing software and OS updates (patches) to all devices. Missing patches are one of the most common sources of security vulnerabilities; RMM automates this across the fleet and produces compliance reports.
What is a patch?
Software vendors (e.g., Microsoft) release regular updates to fix bugs and security holes. These updates are called patches. When a patch ships, the vulnerability it fixes becomes public knowledge — so devices that apply the patch late are left exposed to a known weakness.
Why does it matter so much?
- Security: the majority of ransomware and breaches target already-patched vulnerabilities. A patch delay is an open door.
- Compliance: many audits and contracts require systems to be kept up to date.
- Stability: patches deliver not only security but also bug fixes and performance improvements.
The problem with manual patching
Updating 10 devices by hand is feasible. But across 200 devices: which is current, which had an update fail, which is waiting on a reboot? Tracking that by hand isn’t practical, and a single missed device creates risk.
How does RMM solve patch management?
An RMM platform centralizes patch management:
- Visibility: shows which device is missing which update across the whole fleet, on one panel.
- Deployment: applies patches in bulk or on a schedule.
- Compliance reporting: produces patch-compliance reports (“X% of devices are current”) as audit evidence.
- Automation: set rules to deploy new patches automatically within defined windows.
To see how this fits into a larger whole, read what is RMM.
Patch management in Raavio
Raavio offers Windows update/patch management and patch-compliance reporting alongside inventory and automation in one panel — at $2.99 per agent per month, everything included. It works together with software license-expiry tracking. Explore the capabilities on the features page.
Frequently asked questions
Is patch management only for Windows? No, the concept applies to all software; tool coverage varies. Raavio’s agent is Windows-focused.
Isn’t automatic patching risky? Risk is managed with controlled windows and staged rollout. RMM lets you schedule deployment and report the outcome.
Related reading: RMM buyer’s guide for MSPs · RMM vs remote desktop