Patch Management tools for Partners Because patch management is designed to give an organization control over the software updates it deploys, any organization planning to patch its operational environment should ensure that it has: Effective operations, including people who understand their roles and responsibilities. Tools and technologies that are most appropriate for effective patch management. Effective project management processes to implement patch management.     Effective Operations       The Microsoft Operations Framework (MOF) provides guidance that enables organizations to achieve mission-critical system reliability, availability, supportability, and manageability of Microsoft products and technologies. Service management functions (SMFs), a core part of MOF, provide operational guidance for Microsoft technologies employed in computing environments for information technology applications. Three of the SMFs - Change Management, Configuration Management, and Release Management - are especially crucial to patch management. In order to support the more focused and streamlined Microsoft patch process, as well as to eliminate inconsistencies between the Change Management and the Release Management SMFs, Microsoft has released significant updates of these three SMF. Click here to download the Change Management SMF, Release Management SMF and the Configuration Management SMF.     Tools and Technologies       There are two principal Microsoft technologies available for enterprise patch management of Windows-based systems. Software Update Services 1.0 with Service Pack 1 Systems Management Server 2003 Software Update Services 1.0 with Service Pack 1 SUS is a free tool that allows you to install a service to download all critical updates, security updates, and service packs as they are posted to the Microsoft Windows Update Web site. Systems Management Server 2003 Microsoft Systems Management Server (SMS) 2003 is the preferred mechanism for deploying and managing the distribution of software updates to a large number of clients. It provides the following functionality, which is essential for successful deployment: Inventory functions to determine how many computers have been deployed and to identify their locations and roles. Inventory functions to identify which software applications and software updates have been installed and which need to be installed on the deployed computers. Scheduling functions that allow an organization to deploy software updates outside regular working hours, or at a time that has the least impact on business operations. Status reporting that allows administrators to monitor installation progress. More information on SMS 2003 can be found at http://www.microsoft.com/smserver.         Effective Project Management Processes       In order to get the best results, you should treat your use of the patch management process outlined as a project, using an effective project management process. Many organizations have their own methodologies, all of which should be compatible with the guidance provided in this module. Microsoft recommends using Microsoft Solutions Framework (MSF) for project management guidance. For more information about MSF, see http://www.microsoft.com/msf. Read on and learn more about Managing Patches for Your Customers Patch Management Solution Accelerator Streamline Security Management and Operation - Next Steps and Best Practices Security Guidance Center for Developers and IT Pros - Patch Management Index

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