Patch Management Policy
TechNova Industries

Purpose
To maintain secure and up-to-date software, minimizing risks from vulnerabilities and cyberattacks.

Scope
Applies to all devices, applications, servers, and software used by TechNova Industries, including on-premises and cloud environments. This policy is mandatory for all employees, contractors, and third-party vendors.

Policy Guidelines

1. Patch Identification and Assessment
– The IT team will monitor vendors and security bulletins for new patches.
– Patches will be classified as Critical, High, Medium, or Low severity.

2. Patch Testing
– All patches must be tested in a controlled environment.
– Emergency patches may bypass testing with IT leadership approval, followed by immediate post-deployment testing.

3. Patch Deployment
– Critical patches: deploy within 24 hours.
– High-severity patches: deploy within 7 days.
– Medium/Low-severity patches: deploy within 30 days.
– Utilize automated tools for efficient patching.

4. Documentation and Reporting
– Document every patch, including name, date, affected systems, and issues.
– Provide a monthly patch status report to senior management.

5. Compliance Monitoring
– Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with this policy.
– Address non-compliance within 14 days and report to management.

6. Emergency Patch Process
– For zero-day vulnerabilities, deploy patches immediately with post-deployment verification.

Responsibilities
– IT Department: Identify, test, deploy, and document patches.
– Department Heads: Ensure compliance in their areas.
– Employees: Report vulnerabilities to IT immediately.

Enforcement
Non-compliance may lead to disciplinary action, including termination.

Approval and Review
– Effective Date: 2/22/25
– Reviewed By: Dr. Wibble
– Next Review Date: 2/22/26