What Are Managed IT Services? Benefits and Overview

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Part 1: The Importance of Windows and Application Patching

In today’s digital age, keeping your Information Technology (IT) infrastructure up-to-date is not just a best practice—it’s a necessity. In the first part of our blog series, we will explore the significance of Windows and application patching. We will also explain how our managed IT services consistently ensure your systems are always protected.

Paul Dacre Senior Systems Administrator Medic Cloud

Paul, Medic Cloud Service Engineer

What is the purpose of Windows and application updates?

Keeping your systems updated with the latest patches is crucial for both security and operational efficiency. By using a managed IT service, you achieve this seamlessly.

In the Allied Health industry, Windows updates and patches play a vital role in securing your patient data. When systems are outdated, they turn into weak links in your network, providing entry points for cyber threats that may lead to data breaches. These incidents can have severe consequences, including loss of trust, financial penalties, and compromised patient care.

Each month, Microsoft releases updates to various aspects of your operating system. These updates enhance features, improve performance, and patch security vulnerabilities. Specifically, security updates protect against the latest threats and exploits that could potentially compromise your network.

Additionally, applications running on your network also require regular updates. Similar to operating system updates, application patches fix bugs, boost performance, and address security vulnerabilities.

Microsoft Windows monitoring dashboard example

Windows monitoring tool

Example of a Windows monitoring dashboard

These tools deliver real-time insights into the status of your systems.

How do we apply updates?

We take a forensic approach to applying Windows and application updates. Each month, when Microsoft releases updates, we carefully evaluate each one to ensure it suits your environment. We understand that not all updates are created equal; some may conflict with existing software or hardware configurations. For example, medical devices require controlled updates. In such cases, we work closely with the manufacturers’ notifications and decide on a case-by-case basis which updates can be applied. Additionally, if an update has a known bug, we hold off on performing the update until a newer, more stable version is available.

The role of monitoring tools

To maintain the highest standards of patch compliance, we deploy advanced network and computer monitoring tools. These tools deliver real-time insights into the status of your systems, including the compliance levels of patches and updates. With this data at our fingertips, we quickly identify and address any systems that lag behind, minimising potential vulnerabilities.

Furthermore, our monitoring tools allow us to provide you with monthly service delivery reports. These reports give you a clear view of the health and security of your IT infrastructure, ensuring you that your systems are being managed effectively.

Conclusion

Windows and application patching are fundamental components of a robust IT security strategy. By keeping your systems up-to-date, you protect your network from the latest threats and maintain the integrity of your operations.

At Medic Cloud, we commit to delivering top-notch managed IT services that ensure your business runs smoothly and securely. Read about our managed IT services.

Stay tuned for the next installment of our blog series, where we will explore the critical role of antivirus solutions in safeguarding your IT environment.

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