What is the main purpose of patch management?

The main purpose of patch management is to oversee software updates to fix vulnerabilities. This process is critical in maintaining the security and functionality of systems, as software patches are specifically designed to address identified security flaws or bugs that could potentially be exploited by attackers. By applying patches, organizations can protect their systems against a variety of threats and reduce the risk of data breaches, malware infections, and other security incidents.

While managing user permissions is important for overall security, it does not directly relate to addressing software vulnerabilities. Similarly, installing new software applications and enforcing hardware upgrades pertain to different aspects of IT management rather than the specific task of close oversight and implementation of updates aimed at fixing existing issues within the software environment. Patch management focuses on keeping existing software secure and up to date rather than introducing new applications or hardware modifications.