Web Applications Vulnerabilities and Patch Management

Since computer viruses are written for the express purpose of exploiting vulnerabilities in computer systems and software, a security patch or service pack update is intended to close these potential points of entry or key weaknesses. The installation of patches and updates is an important aspect of maintaining strong overall computer security. While viruses can be detected and removed from systems that have not had service packs or patches installed, these systems will continue to be vulnerable to new infections or to re-infections as long as the exploitable issues remain unaddressed.

Fortunately, the newer versions of the Windows operating system provide for an automated system of update download and installation. While some users find the automatic updates annoying because they normally require a system restart that interrupts any work in progress, computers that are updated routinely are "healthier" and better able to withstand potential virus threats. The Windows Control Panel does have an "Automatic Updates" icon to give the user some control over when updates are installed but it is an extremely bad idea to turn automatic updating off altogether.

Can I Manage Updates and Patches Manually?

Although manual updates of necessary patches and other updates is not recommended for the simple reason that people are not likely to keep up with the necessary routine of maintenance, in some cases it is necessary to "do it the hard way." Windows security patches are available for download from the Microsoft website and the company offers a bulletin service that apprises users of known security issues with the various "flavors" of the Windows operating system.

Windows 2000 security patches, for example would differ from a Windows XP security patch. (These same bulletins will inform users of web application vulnerabilities and patch management issues.) The Microsoft Security Center can be found at www.microsoft.com/security while the site for Windows updates is located at windowsupdate.microsoft.com.

As a regular part of the maintenance of a healthy computer system, software patches will help to insure stable behavior and stronger immunity from malicious computer viruses and hacker attacks. By simply installing a security patch in the face of a known issue, you take another important step in protecting your machine and its contents.