[](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/?ts=markdown) * Sign In * Customer * Partner * Employee * [Login to download](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/login?ts=markdown) * [Join us to become a member](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/login?screenToRender=traditionalRegistration&ts=markdown) * EN * [USA (ENGLISH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com) * [AUSTRALIA (ENGLISH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com.au) * [BRAZIL (PORTUGUÉS)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com.br) * [CANADA (ENGLISH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.ca) * [CHINA (简体中文)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.cn) * [FRANCE (FRANÇAIS)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.fr) * [GERMANY (DEUTSCH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.de) * [INDIA (ENGLISH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.in) * [ITALY (ITALIANO)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.it) * [JAPAN (日本語)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.jp) * [KOREA (한국어)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.co.kr) * [LATIN AMERICA (ESPAÑOL)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.lat) * [MEXICO (ESPAÑOL)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com.mx) * [SINGAPORE (ENGLISH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.sg) * [SPAIN (ESPAÑOL)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.es) * [TAIWAN (繁體中文)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.tw) * [UK (ENGLISH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.co.uk) * ![magnifying glass search icon to open search field](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/search-black.svg) * [Contact Us](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/company/contact-sales?ts=markdown) * [What's New](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources?ts=markdown) * [Get Support](https://support.paloaltonetworks.com/SupportAccount/MyAccount) * [Under Attack?](https://start.paloaltonetworks.com/contact-unit42.html) ![x close icon to close mobile navigation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/x-black.svg) [![Palo Alto Networks logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/pan-logo-dark.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/?ts=markdown) ![magnifying glass search icon to open search field](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/search-black.svg) * [](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/?ts=markdown) * Products ![black arrow pointing left to go back to main navigation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/arrow-right-black.svg) Products [AI-Powered Network Security Platform](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security?ts=markdown) * [AI Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/precision-ai-security/secure-ai-by-design?ts=markdown) * [Prisma AIRS](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/prisma/prisma-ai-runtime-security?ts=markdown) * [AI Access Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/ai-access-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Delivered Security Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/security-subscriptions?ts=markdown) * [Advanced Threat Prevention](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-threat-prevention?ts=markdown) * [Advanced URL Filtering](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-url-filtering?ts=markdown) * [Advanced WildFire](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-wildfire?ts=markdown) * [Advanced DNS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-dns-security?ts=markdown) * [Enterprise Data Loss Prevention](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/enterprise-data-loss-prevention?ts=markdown) * [Enterprise Device Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/enterprise-device-security?ts=markdown) * [Medical Device Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/medical-device-security?ts=markdown) * [OT Device Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/ot-device-security?ts=markdown) * [SaaS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/saas-security?ts=markdown) * [Next-Generation Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/next-generation-firewall?ts=markdown) * [Hardware Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/hardware-firewall-innovations?ts=markdown) * [Software Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/software-firewalls?ts=markdown) * [Strata Cloud Manager](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/strata-cloud-manager?ts=markdown) * [SD-WAN for NGFW](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/sd-wan-subscription?ts=markdown) * [PAN-OS](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/pan-os?ts=markdown) * [Panorama](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/panorama?ts=markdown) * [Secure Access Service Edge](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase?ts=markdown) * [Prisma SASE](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase?ts=markdown) * [Application Acceleration](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/app-acceleration?ts=markdown) * [Autonomous Digital Experience Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/adem?ts=markdown) * [Enterprise DLP](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/enterprise-data-loss-prevention?ts=markdown) * [Prisma Access](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/access?ts=markdown) * [Prisma Browser](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/prisma-browser?ts=markdown) * [Prisma SD-WAN](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/sd-wan?ts=markdown) * [Remote Browser Isolation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/remote-browser-isolation?ts=markdown) * [SaaS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/saas-security?ts=markdown) [AI-Driven Security Operations Platform](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud?ts=markdown) * [Cortex Cloud](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud?ts=markdown) * [Application Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/application-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Posture Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-posture-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Runtime Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/runtime-security?ts=markdown) * [Prisma Cloud](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/prisma/cloud?ts=markdown) * [AI-Driven SOC](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex?ts=markdown) * [Cortex XSIAM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xsiam?ts=markdown) * [Cortex XDR](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xdr?ts=markdown) * [Cortex AgentiX](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/agentix?ts=markdown) * [Cortex XSOAR](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xsoar?ts=markdown) * [Cortex Exposure Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/exposure-management?ts=markdown) * [Cortex Xpanse](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xpanse?ts=markdown) * [Cortex Advanced Email Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/advanced-email-security?ts=markdown) * [Unit 42 Managed Detection \& Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/managed-detection-and-response?ts=markdown) * [Unit 42 Managed XSIAM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/managed-xsiam?ts=markdown) * Solutions ![black arrow pointing left to go back to main navigation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/arrow-right-black.svg) Solutions Secure AI by Design * [Secure AI Ecosystem](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/prisma/prisma-ai-runtime-security?ts=markdown) * [Secure GenAI Usage](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/ai-access-security?ts=markdown) Network Security * [Cloud Network Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/software-firewalls?ts=markdown) * [Data Center Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/data-center?ts=markdown) * [DNS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-dns-security?ts=markdown) * [Intrusion Detection and Prevention](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-threat-prevention?ts=markdown) * [Device Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/device-security?ts=markdown) * [OT Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/ot-device-security?ts=markdown) * [5G Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/5g-security?ts=markdown) * [Secure All Apps, Users and Locations](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/secure-users-data-apps-devices?ts=markdown) * [Secure Branch Transformation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/secure-branch-transformation?ts=markdown) * [Secure Work on Any Device](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/secure-work-on-any-device?ts=markdown) * [VPN Replacement](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/vpn-replacement-for-secure-remote-access?ts=markdown) * [Web \& Phishing Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-url-filtering?ts=markdown) Cloud Security * [Application Security Posture Management (ASPM)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/application-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [Software Supply Chain Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/software-supply-chain-security?ts=markdown) * [Code Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/code-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Infrastructure Entitlement Management (CIEM)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-infrastructure-entitlement-management?ts=markdown) * [Data Security Posture Management (DSPM)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/data-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [AI Security Posture Management (AI-SPM)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/ai-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Detection \& Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud-detection-and-response?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Workload Protection (CWP)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-workload-protection?ts=markdown) * [Web Application \& API Security (WAAS)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/web-app-api-security?ts=markdown) Security Operations * [Cloud Detection \& Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud-detection-and-response?ts=markdown) * [Security Information and Event Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/modernize-siem?ts=markdown) * [Network Security Automation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/network-security-automation?ts=markdown) * [Incident Case Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/incident-case-management?ts=markdown) * [SOC Automation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/security-operations-automation?ts=markdown) * [Threat Intel Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/threat-intel-management?ts=markdown) * [Managed Detection \& Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/managed-detection-and-response?ts=markdown) * [Attack Surface Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xpanse/attack-surface-management?ts=markdown) * [Compliance Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xpanse/compliance-management?ts=markdown) * [Internet Operations Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xpanse/internet-operations-management?ts=markdown) * [Extended Data Lake (XDL)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xdl?ts=markdown) * [Agentic Assistant](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-agentic-assistant?ts=markdown) Endpoint Security * [Endpoint Protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/endpoint-protection?ts=markdown) * [Extended Detection \& Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/detection-and-response?ts=markdown) * [Ransomware Protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/ransomware-protection?ts=markdown) * [Digital Forensics](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/digital-forensics?ts=markdown) [Industries](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/industry?ts=markdown) * [Public Sector](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/industry/public-sector?ts=markdown) * [Financial Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/industry/financial-services?ts=markdown) * [Manufacturing](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/industry/manufacturing?ts=markdown) * [Healthcare](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/industry/healthcare?ts=markdown) * [Small \& Medium Business Solutions](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/industry/small-medium-business-portfolio?ts=markdown) * Services ![black arrow pointing left to go back to main navigation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/arrow-right-black.svg) Services [Threat Intel and Incident Response Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42?ts=markdown) * [Assess](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/assess?ts=markdown) * [AI Security Assessment](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/assess/ai-security-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Attack Surface Assessment](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/assess/attack-surface-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Breach Readiness Review](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/assess/breach-readiness-review?ts=markdown) * [BEC Readiness Assessment](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/bec-readiness-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Security Assessment](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/assess/cloud-security-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Compromise Assessment](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/assess/compromise-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Cyber Risk Assessment](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/assess/cyber-risk-assessment?ts=markdown) * [M\&A Cyber Due Diligence](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/assess/mergers-acquisitions-cyber-due-diligence?ts=markdown) * [Penetration Testing](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/assess/penetration-testing?ts=markdown) * [Purple Team Exercises](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/assess/purple-teaming?ts=markdown) * [Ransomware Readiness Assessment](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/assess/ransomware-readiness-assessment?ts=markdown) * [SOC Assessment](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/assess/soc-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Supply Chain Risk Assessment](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/assess/supply-chain-risk-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Tabletop Exercises](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/assess/tabletop-exercise?ts=markdown) * [Unit 42 Retainer](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/retainer?ts=markdown) * [Respond](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/respond?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Incident Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/respond/cloud-incident-response?ts=markdown) * [Digital Forensics](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/respond/digital-forensics?ts=markdown) * [Incident Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/respond/incident-response?ts=markdown) * [Managed Detection and Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/respond/managed-detection-response?ts=markdown) * [Managed Threat Hunting](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/respond/managed-threat-hunting?ts=markdown) * [Managed XSIAM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/managed-xsiam?ts=markdown) * [Unit 42 Retainer](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/retainer?ts=markdown) * [Transform](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/transform?ts=markdown) * [IR Plan Development and Review](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/transform/incident-response-plan-development-review?ts=markdown) * [Security Program Design](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/transform/security-program-design?ts=markdown) * [Virtual CISO](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/transform/vciso?ts=markdown) * [Zero Trust Advisory](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/transform/zero-trust-advisory?ts=markdown) [Global Customer Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services?ts=markdown) * [Education \& Training](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services/education?ts=markdown) * [Professional Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services/consulting?ts=markdown) * [Success Tools](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services/customer-success-tools?ts=markdown) * [Support Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services/solution-assurance?ts=markdown) * [Customer Success](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services/customer-success?ts=markdown) [![](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/logo-unit-42.svg) UNIT 42 RETAINER Custom-built to fit your organization's needs, you can choose to allocate your retainer hours to any of our offerings, including proactive cyber risk management services. Learn how you can put the world-class Unit 42 Incident Response team on speed dial. Learn more](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/retainer?ts=markdown) * Partners ![black arrow pointing left to go back to main navigation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/arrow-right-black.svg) Partners NextWave Partners * [NextWave Partner Community](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Service Providers](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners/nextwave-for-csp?ts=markdown) * [Global Systems Integrators](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners/nextwave-for-gsi?ts=markdown) * [Technology Partners](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners/technology-partners?ts=markdown) * [Service Providers](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners/service-providers?ts=markdown) * [Solution Providers](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners/nextwave-solution-providers?ts=markdown) * [Managed Security Service Providers](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners/managed-security-service-providers?ts=markdown) * [XMDR Partners](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners/managed-security-service-providers/xmdr?ts=markdown) Take Action * [Portal Login](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners/nextwave-partner-portal?ts=markdown) * [Managed Services Program](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/partners/managed-security-services-provider-program?ts=markdown) * [Become a Partner](https://paloaltonetworks.my.site.com/NextWavePartnerProgram/s/partnerregistration?type=becomepartner) * [Request Access](https://paloaltonetworks.my.site.com/NextWavePartnerProgram/s/partnerregistration?type=requestaccess) * [Find a Partner](https://paloaltonetworks.my.site.com/NextWavePartnerProgram/s/partnerlocator) [CYBERFORCE CYBERFORCE represents the top 1% of partner engineers trusted for their security expertise. Learn more](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberforce?ts=markdown) * Company ![black arrow pointing left to go back to main navigation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/arrow-right-black.svg) Company Palo Alto Networks * [About Us](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us?ts=markdown) * [Management Team](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us/management?ts=markdown) * [Investor Relations](https://investors.paloaltonetworks.com) * [Locations](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us/locations?ts=markdown) * [Ethics \& Compliance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/company/ethics-and-compliance?ts=markdown) * [Corporate Responsibility](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us/corporate-responsibility?ts=markdown) * [Military \& Veterans](https://jobs.paloaltonetworks.com/military) [Why Palo Alto Networks?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/why-paloaltonetworks?ts=markdown) * [Precision AI Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/precision-ai-security?ts=markdown) * [Our Platform Approach](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/why-paloaltonetworks/platformization?ts=markdown) * [Accelerate Your Cybersecurity Transformation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/why-paloaltonetworks/nam-cxo-portfolio?ts=markdown) * [Awards \& Recognition](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us/awards?ts=markdown) * [Customer Stories](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/customers?ts=markdown) * [Global Certifications](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal-notices/trust-center/compliance?ts=markdown) * [Trust 360 Program](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources/whitepapers/trust-360?ts=markdown) Careers * [Overview](https://jobs.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Culture \& Benefits](https://jobs.paloaltonetworks.com/en/culture/) [A Newsweek Most Loved Workplace "Businesses that do right by their employees" Read more](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/company/press/2021/palo-alto-networks-secures-top-ranking-on-newsweek-s-most-loved-workplaces-list-for-2021?ts=markdown) * More ![black arrow pointing left to go back to main navigation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/arrow-right-black.svg) More Resources * [Blog](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/?ts=markdown) * [Unit 42 Threat Research](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Communities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/communities?ts=markdown) * [Content Library](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources?ts=markdown) * [Cyberpedia](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia?ts=markdown) * [Tech Insider](https://techinsider.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Knowledge Base](https://knowledgebase.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Palo Alto Networks TV](https://tv.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Perspectives of Leaders](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/perspectives/?ts=markdown) * [Cyber Perspectives Magazine](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cybersecurity-perspectives/cyber-perspectives-magazine?ts=markdown) * [Regional Cloud Locations](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/products/regional-cloud-locations?ts=markdown) * [Tech Docs](https://docs.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Security Posture Assessment](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/security-posture-assessment?ts=markdown) * [Threat Vector Podcast](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/unit-42-threat-vector-podcast/) * [Packet Pushers Podcasts](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/podcasts/packet-pusher?ts=markdown) Connect * [LIVE community](https://live.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Events](https://events.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Executive Briefing Center](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us/executive-briefing-program?ts=markdown) * [Demos](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/demos?ts=markdown) * [Contact us](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/company/contact-sales?ts=markdown) [Blog Stay up-to-date on industry trends and the latest innovations from the world's largest cybersecurity Learn more](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/) * Sign In ![black arrow pointing left to go back to main navigation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/arrow-right-black.svg) Sign In * Customer * Partner * Employee * [Login to download](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/login?ts=markdown) * [Join us to become a member](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/login?screenToRender=traditionalRegistration&ts=markdown) * EN ![black arrow pointing left to go back to main navigation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/arrow-right-black.svg) Language * [USA (ENGLISH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com) * [AUSTRALIA (ENGLISH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com.au) * [BRAZIL (PORTUGUÉS)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com.br) * [CANADA (ENGLISH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.ca) * [CHINA (简体中文)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.cn) * [FRANCE (FRANÇAIS)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.fr) * [GERMANY (DEUTSCH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.de) * [INDIA (ENGLISH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.in) * [ITALY (ITALIANO)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.it) * [JAPAN (日本語)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.jp) * [KOREA (한국어)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.co.kr) * [LATIN AMERICA (ESPAÑOL)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.lat) * [MEXICO (ESPAÑOL)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com.mx) * [SINGAPORE (ENGLISH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.sg) * [SPAIN (ESPAÑOL)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.es) * [TAIWAN (繁體中文)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.tw) * [UK (ENGLISH)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.co.uk) * [Contact Us](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/company/contact-sales?ts=markdown) * [What's New](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources?ts=markdown) * [Get support](https://support.paloaltonetworks.com/SupportAccount/MyAccount) * [Under Attack?](https://start.paloaltonetworks.com/contact-unit42.html) * [Demos and Trials](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/get-started?ts=markdown) Search All * [Tech Docs](https://docs.paloaltonetworks.com/search) Close search modal [Deploy Bravely --- Secure your AI transformation with Prisma AIRS](https://www.deploybravely.com) [](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/?ts=markdown) 1. [Cyberpedia](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia?ts=markdown) 2. [Security Operations](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/security-operations?ts=markdown) 3. [Vulnerability Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management?ts=markdown) 4. [Patch Management Vs. Vulnerability Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management?ts=markdown) Table of contents * [What Is Vulnerability Management?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management?ts=markdown) * [Vulnerability Management Explained](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management#vulnerability?ts=markdown) * [Understanding Vulnerabilities, Threats and Risks](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management#understanding?ts=markdown) * [Why Cloud Vulnerability Management Is Challenging](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management#why?ts=markdown) * [Vulnerability Management Vs. Patch Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management#management?ts=markdown) * [Overview of Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management#overview?ts=markdown) * [Vulnerability Management Vs. Vulnerability Assessment](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management#vs?ts=markdown) * [Setting Up a Vulnerability Management Framework](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management#framework?ts=markdown) * [The Four Key Steps of Vulnerability Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management#the?ts=markdown) * [Improving Your Vulnerability Management Program](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management#improving?ts=markdown) * [CWPP's Role in Vulnerability Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management#roles?ts=markdown) * [Best Practices for Managing Cloud Workload Vulnerabilities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management#best?ts=markdown) * [Vulnerability Management FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is Patch Management? Process, Policy, and Benefits](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management?ts=markdown) * [Understanding Patch Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management#understanding?ts=markdown) * [Why Patch Management Is Important](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management#why?ts=markdown) * [The Patch Management Process](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management#process?ts=markdown) * [Patch Management in Cloud and Hybrid Environments](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management#patch?ts=markdown) * [Key Patch Management Challenges and How to Solve Them](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management#key?ts=markdown) * [How to Create an Effective Patch Management Policy](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management#policy?ts=markdown) * [Leveraging Tools and Technologies for Patch Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management#leveraging?ts=markdown) * [CWPPs and Patch Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management#cwpps-patch-management?ts=markdown) * [Patch Management FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is Risk-Based Vulnerability Management?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/risk-based-vulnerability-management?ts=markdown) * [Risk-Based Vulnerability Management Definition](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/risk-based-vulnerability-management#vulnerability?ts=markdown) * [Why Organizations Need a Risk-Based Approach?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/risk-based-vulnerability-management#why?ts=markdown) * [Key Components of a Risk-Based Vulnerability Management Framework](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/risk-based-vulnerability-management#key?ts=markdown) * [From Discovery to Remediation --- RBVM in Practice](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/risk-based-vulnerability-management#practice?ts=markdown) * [Benefits of Adopting a Risk-Based Vulnerability Management Strategy](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/risk-based-vulnerability-management#benefits?ts=markdown) * [Risk-Based Vulnerability Management FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/risk-based-vulnerability-management#faqs?ts=markdown) * [Vulnerability Management Program: Building a Risk-Based Framework](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management-program?ts=markdown) * [What Is a Vulnerability Management Program?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management-program#what?ts=markdown) * [Key Components of a Successful Program](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management-program#key?ts=markdown) * [How Does Cloud Vulnerability Management Work?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management-program#how?ts=markdown) * [Reporting and Metrics](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management-program#reporting?ts=markdown) * [Challenges and Best Practices](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management-program#challenges?ts=markdown) * [Vulnerability Management Program FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management-program#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is Vulnerability Scanning?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-scanning?ts=markdown) * [Vulnerability Scanning Explained](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-scanning#vulnerability?ts=markdown) * [How Vulnerability Scanning Works](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-scanning#how?ts=markdown) * [Types of Vulnerability Scanning](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-scanning#types?ts=markdown) * [Vulnerability Scanning Vs. Penetration Testing](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-scanning#vs?ts=markdown) * [CWPP \& Scanning in the Cloud](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-scanning#cwpp?ts=markdown) * [Vulnerability Management Best Practices](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-scanning#practices?ts=markdown) * [Vulnerability Scanning FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-scanning#faqs?ts=markdown) * Patch Management Vs. Vulnerability Management * [Patch Management and Vulnerability Management Definition](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management#patch?ts=markdown) * [Key Differences Between Patch and Vulnerability Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management#key?ts=markdown) * [Where They Overlap --- Coordination Is Key](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management#where?ts=markdown) * [How to Build an Integrated Patch and Vulnerability Management Strategy](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management#strategy?ts=markdown) * [Tools That Bridge Vulnerability and Patch Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management#tools?ts=markdown) * [Patch Management vs. Vulnerability Management FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is Threat and Vulnerability Management?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/threat-and-vulnerability-management?ts=markdown) * [Threat and Vulnerability Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/threat-and-vulnerability-management#threat?ts=markdown) * [Key Components of a Threat and Vulnerability Management Program](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/threat-and-vulnerability-management#key?ts=markdown) * [Comparing Threat and Vulnerability Management by Risk Elimination](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/threat-and-vulnerability-management#comparing?ts=markdown) * [The Value of Integrated Threat and Vulnerability Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/threat-and-vulnerability-management#value?ts=markdown) * [Building a Threat and Vulnerability Management Strategy](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/threat-and-vulnerability-management#building?ts=markdown) * [Threat and Vulnerability Management FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/threat-and-vulnerability-management#faqs?ts=markdown) * [Vulnerability Management Lifecycle: Key Phases and Execution](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management-lifecycle?ts=markdown) * [Understanding the Vulnerability Management Lifecycle](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management-lifecycle#understanding?ts=markdown) * [Key Phases of the Vulnerability Management Lifecycle](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management-lifecycle#key?ts=markdown) * [Vulnerability Management Lifecycle Implementation and Real-World Application](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management-lifecycle#vulnerability?ts=markdown) * [Vulnerability Management Lifecycle FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-management-lifecycle#faqs?ts=markdown) * [How to Automate Vulnerability Management Steps, Tools, and Benefits](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/automating-vulnerability-management?ts=markdown) * [Understanding Vulnerability Management Automation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/automating-vulnerability-management#understanding?ts=markdown) * [The Four Pillars of Automated Vulnerability Management Workflow](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/automating-vulnerability-management#pillars?ts=markdown) * [Tools and Technologies for Vulnerability Remediation Automation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/automating-vulnerability-management#tools?ts=markdown) * [Benefits of Vulnerability Management Automation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/automating-vulnerability-management#benefits?ts=markdown) * [Challenges and Best Practices for Implementation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/automating-vulnerability-management#challenges?ts=markdown) * [How to Automate Vulnerability Management FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/automating-vulnerability-management#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is Continuous Vulnerability Management (CVM)?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/continuous-vulnerability-management?ts=markdown) * [Understand Continuous Vulnerability Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/continuous-vulnerability-management#understand?ts=markdown) * [CVM Vs. Traditional Vulnerability Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/continuous-vulnerability-management#traditional?ts=markdown) * [When to Consider Continuous Vulnerability Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/continuous-vulnerability-management#when?ts=markdown) * [How CVM Works in Enterprise Environments](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/continuous-vulnerability-management#how?ts=markdown) * [Key Benefits of CVM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/continuous-vulnerability-management#key?ts=markdown) * [Challenges of CVM Adoption](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/continuous-vulnerability-management#challenges?ts=markdown) * [Best Practices for CVM Adoption](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/continuous-vulnerability-management#best?ts=markdown) * [Continuous Vulnerability Management (CVM) FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/continuous-vulnerability-management#faqs?ts=markdown) # Patch Management Vs. Vulnerability Management 5 min. read Table of contents * * [Patch Management and Vulnerability Management Definition](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management#patch?ts=markdown) * [Key Differences Between Patch and Vulnerability Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management#key?ts=markdown) * [Where They Overlap --- Coordination Is Key](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management#where?ts=markdown) * [How to Build an Integrated Patch and Vulnerability Management Strategy](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management#strategy?ts=markdown) * [Tools That Bridge Vulnerability and Patch Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management#tools?ts=markdown) * [Patch Management vs. Vulnerability Management FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management#faqs?ts=markdown) 1. Patch Management and Vulnerability Management Definition * * [Patch Management and Vulnerability Management Definition](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management#patch?ts=markdown) * [Key Differences Between Patch and Vulnerability Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management#key?ts=markdown) * [Where They Overlap --- Coordination Is Key](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management#where?ts=markdown) * [How to Build an Integrated Patch and Vulnerability Management Strategy](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management#strategy?ts=markdown) * [Tools That Bridge Vulnerability and Patch Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management#tools?ts=markdown) * [Patch Management vs. Vulnerability Management FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management#faqs?ts=markdown) Patch management and vulnerability management are cornerstone processes in effective cybersecurity programs --- distinct yet deeply interconnected. While both aim to reduce organizational risk, they operate at different levels of the security lifecycle. ## Patch Management and Vulnerability Management Definition While these terms are often used interchangeably, they represent distinct yet complementary approaches to cybersecurity risk reduction. Let's start by defining it. ### Patch Management Patch management is the disciplined routine of hunting down software updates, trying them out safely, and rolling them into production. Teams start by cataloging every OS, app, and firmware version they run, keep an eye on vendor bulletins, gauge which patches matter, test in a sandbox, push to live systems, and then double-check that each fix is stuck. The point is simple: close the gaps that criminals already know about. Tight turnaround on patches shrinks attackers' window of opportunity and keeps corporate infrastructure out of the headlines. ### Vulnerability Management [Vulnerability management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-Is-vulnerability-management?ts=markdown) is a broader, more comprehensive security discipline focused on the continuous identification, classification, prioritization, and tracking of security weaknesses across an organization's digital footprint. It extends beyond just software flaws to include misconfigurations, weak authentication mechanisms, and other security gaps that might expose systems to risk. Unlike patch management, vulnerability management encompasses weaknesses, whether a patch exists or doesn't. It involves regular security scanning, risk assessment, and the implementation of various mitigation strategies that might include patching, configuration changes, compensating controls, or even accepting certain risks after thorough analysis. ### The Relationship Between Them [Patch management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management?ts=markdown) jumps in after a weakness is identified, applying targeted fixes to remove that specific flaw. Vulnerability management, on the other hand, runs continuously in the background --- scanning, ranking, and tracking risks across the entire environment so security teams can address issues before they turn into incidents. Patch management represents one potential response mechanism within the broader vulnerability management framework. While patching is often the preferred solution for many vulnerabilities, it's just one tool in the vulnerability management toolbox. Some vulnerabilities may require architectural changes, compensating controls, or risk acceptance when patches aren't available or practical to implement. ## Key Differences Between Patch and Vulnerability Management Organizations that understand key differences between patch and vulnerability management can better structure their security operations and enable security and IT teams to develop more effective risk management strategies. ### Objectives and Focus **Vulnerability management** takes a holistic, risk-centric approach focused on identifying, assessing, and prioritizing security weaknesses across the entire IT environment. Its primary objective is comprehensive risk reduction through continuous monitoring and assessment. It aims to provide visibility into the complete risk landscape, enabling strategic decisions about how to address each vulnerability based on its potential impact. **Patch management** has a more targeted objective: to efficiently deploy fixes for known software flaws. Its focus is operational in nature, centering on the logistics of obtaining, testing, and implementing patches to address documented vulnerabilities. The goal is to systematically eliminate specific, known issues through timely updates. ### Scope and Coverage **Vulnerability management** encompasses the entire security risk landscape, including: * Software vulnerabilities (patchable) * Misconfigurations * Poor access controls * Weak password policies * Default credentials * Architectural weaknesses * Business logic flaws * Process inadequacies **Patch management** covers a narrower terrain, addressing only those vulnerabilities that have vendor-released patches. Many critical security issues --- like misconfigured cloud storage buckets exposing [sensitive data](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/sensitive-data?ts=markdown), excessive user permissions, or architectural flaws --- fall outside patch management's scope entirely. ### Tools and Technologies **Vulnerability management** typically employs: * Vulnerability scanners * Penetration testing tools * Risk assessment frameworks * Threat intelligence platforms * [Security information and event management (SIEM)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-siem?ts=markdown) systems **Patch management** primarily utilizes: * Patch management solutions * Software deployment tools * Update services * Configuration management databases * Testing environments ### Timing and Frequency **Vulnerability management** operates as a continuous cycle with regular scanning schedules, ongoing risk assessments, and constant prioritization adjustments based on emerging threats. This cyclical process never truly ends. **Patch management** follows a more reactive pattern, triggered by patch releases from vendors or by vulnerability management findings. While some patches follow predictable schedules (like Microsoft's "Patch Tuesday"), emergency patches for critical vulnerabilities may require immediate attention outside normal cycles. ### Required Skill Sets **Vulnerability management** requires: * Risk assessment capabilities * Threat modeling expertise * Understanding of security frameworks * Business impact analysis skills * Strategic thinking about security posture **Patch management** demands: * System administration knowledge * Technical implementation skills * Change management expertise * Testing methodologies * Deployment automation capabilities ### Decision Outcomes When **vulnerability management** identifies a risk, it initiates a decision-making process that might result in various remediation options beyond patching: * Network segmentation to isolate vulnerable systems * Implementing additional access controls * Reconfiguring security tools * Deploying compensating controls * Accepting and documenting certain risks **Patch management** decisions are more straightforward, usually involving scheduling considerations, testing requirements, and deployment strategies. ### Organizational Ownership **Vulnerability management** often resides with the security team, which has the expertise to evaluate risks in context. **Patch management** frequently belongs to IT operations, which has the system access and technical ability to implement changes across the infrastructure. The separation between teams can create challenges, especially when security teams identify vulnerabilities that require patches, but must then coordinate with IT teams to implement the fixes. Clear processes are needed to bridge these distinct but interrelated security functions. ## Where They Overlap --- Coordination Is Key Patch management and vulnerability management work most effectively when integrated into a coordinated security ecosystem. When these processes operate in isolation, organizations risk developing blind spots that can leave critical vulnerabilities unaddressed or create inefficiencies through duplicated efforts. ### Creating a Seamless Information Flow When properly configured, vulnerability scanners identify weaknesses across the environment and categorize them based on severity, exploitability, and potential impact. This intelligence can feed directly into patching workflows, providing IT teams with a prioritized list of systems requiring immediate attention. In advanced implementations, this handoff happens automatically through API integrations and orchestration tools. For example, when a critical vulnerability is detected in a production database server, the vulnerability management system can automatically generate a ticket in the patch management workflow, complete with the CVE ID, affected systems, and recommended remediation steps. ### Unified Asset Management Without knowing what systems exist in your environment, it's impossible to effectively scan for vulnerabilities or deploy patches. Organizations that maintain a single source of truth for asset information create a foundation for seamless coordination between these functions. Shared inventory should track: * Hardware assets and their configurations * Installed software versions * Patch levels * System ownership * Business criticality * Network location * Dependencies When both vulnerability management and patch management teams work from the same asset data, they can collaborate more effectively and ensure complete coverage. Doing so prevents scenarios where patching teams miss systems that vulnerability scanners have identified as at risk. ### Aligned Prioritization Frameworks CVSS scores are a handy first glance at risk, but numbers alone don't tell the whole story. To decide what gets fixed first, security and patch teams need a single yardstick that mixes technical severity with business realities: How vital is the system? Is a weaponised exploit already in the wild? Do existing controls soften the blow? What would downtime cost the company, or violate a regulation? Using one shared scoring model keeps everyone aiming at the same high-impact targets instead of fighting over backlogs. ### Continuous Feedback Loop [Vulnerability scanning](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-scanning?ts=markdown) identifies weaknesses. Patch management remedies them, while post-patching verification scans confirm the fixes. The cycle begins again with fresh scanning to identify new issues. This feedback loop provides several benefits: * Verification that patches have successfully addressed vulnerabilities * Documentation of risk reduction over time * Identification of systems where patches failed to deploy correctly * Early detection of new vulnerabilities in recently patched systems * Continuous improvement of both processes ### Unified Security Platforms Recognizing the natural complementarity of these functions, security vendors increasingly offer integrated solutions that combine vulnerability assessment, patch management, configuration management, and compliance reporting in unified platforms. Such tools provide dashboards that give security leaders visibility into the vulnerability lifecycle --- from identification through remediation and verification. Unified platforms streamline operations by: * Automatically correlating vulnerabilities with available patches * Tracking remediation progress in real time * Providing unified reporting for compliance purposes * Automating routine tasks in both processes * Supporting risk-based decision making with comprehensive data By leveraging tools that bridge these traditionally separate domains, organizations can eliminate the friction that often exists between security and IT operations teams, ensuring that critical vulnerabilities don't fall through the cracks due to communication gaps or process inefficiencies. ## How to Build an Integrated Patch and Vulnerability Management Strategy Here's how organizations can develop a unified approach that maximizes security while optimizing operational efficiency. Start with a comprehensive foundation: ### 1. Asset Inventory Without knowing what you have, you can't protect it. This inventory should: * Catalog all hardware, software, cloud resources, and applications * Document ownership, location, and business function * Identify critical systems and crown jewel assets * Track configurations, versions, and patch levels * Include both managed and unmanaged devices * Leverage automated discovery tools to maintain accuracy Implementing an automated solution that continuously updates this inventory ensures that newly deployed assets are quickly incorporated into vulnerability and patch management processes, eliminating dangerous blind spots. ### 2. Establish a Unified Vulnerability Discovery Process: With a solid inventory in place, implement comprehensive vulnerability scanning that provides visibility across your entire environment: * Deploy multiple scanning methods (authenticated, unauthenticated, agent-based) * Implement regular scanning cadences for different environment types * Incorporate penetration testing for a deeper assessment * Leverage threat intelligence to identify emerging vulnerabilities * Include cloud configuration scanning and compliance checks * Ensure scanning covers all environments (production, development, test) Modern environments require multiple discovery techniques to ensure complete coverage. A combination of traditional vulnerability scanning, [cloud security posture management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-cloud-security-posture-management?ts=markdown), and [container security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-container-security?ts=markdown) scanning creates a more comprehensive picture of your risk landscape. ### 3. Develop a Shared Prioritization Framework Not all vulnerabilities are created equal, and limited resources mean organizations can't fix everything at once. A unified prioritization framework helps both security and IT teams focus on what matters most. Create a scoring methodology that considers: * Vulnerability severity (CVSS score) and exploitability * Asset criticality and business impact * Exposure (internet-facing vs. internal systems) * Exploit availability in the wild * Presence of compensating controls * Data sensitivity on affected systems * Compliance requirements and regulatory considerations This framework should translate technical vulnerability data into business risk metrics that guide remediation decisions and resource allocation. Each organization's prioritization model should reflect its unique risk tolerance and business priorities. ### 4. Align Remediation Processes with Risk Levels Once vulnerabilities are prioritized, remediation processes should follow clear timelines based on risk levels. Define tiered SLAs that correspond to risk categories: * **Critical risk (9.0-10.0 CVSS)**: Remediate within 24-48 hours * **High risk (7.0-8.9 CVSS)**: Remediate within 7 days * **Medium risk (4.0-6.9 CVSS)**: Remediate within 30 days * **Low risk (0.1-3.9 CVSS)**: Remediate within 90 days or during next maintenance window These SLAs should be formally documented and agreed upon by all stakeholders to establish clear expectations. ### 5. Create Standardized Procedures for Common Vulnerability Types: * Patching workflows with testing protocols for different system types * Configuration remediation templates * Compensating control implementation guidelines * Exception processes with risk acceptance requirements * Emergency break-glass procedures for zero-day threats Playbooks ensure consistent remediation approaches and maintain operational stability while addressing security concerns. ### 6. Break Down Silos Between Teams Create a cross-functional team with representatives from: * Security operations * IT operations and system administration * Application development teams * Compliance and risk management * Business unit stakeholders The group should meet regularly to review vulnerability metrics, discuss remediation challenges, and make risk-based decisions about complex vulnerabilities. ### 7. Define Clear Roles and Responsibilities * **Security teams**: Vulnerability discovery, risk assessment, verification * **IT operations**: Patch deployment, system hardening, configuration changes * **Development teams**: Application vulnerability remediation, secure coding * **Business units**: Testing, acceptance, and coordination of maintenance windows * **Executive leadership**: Risk acceptance for exceptions, resource allocation A RACI matrix (Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed) can formalize these responsibilities and eliminate confusion about ownership. ### 8. Establish Verification Procedures Create processes to validate that remediation efforts were successful: * Post-remediation scanning to confirm vulnerability closure * Configuration validation for hardening measures * Penetration testing to verify security improvements Develop reporting that serves multiple stakeholders: * Executive dashboards showing risk reduction trends * Operational metrics tracking remediation efficiency * Compliance reports documenting control effectiveness * Team performance metrics aligned with SLAs Schedule regular program reviews to identify improvement opportunities: * Quarterly assessment of vulnerability trends and patch effectiveness * Annual review of prioritization criteria and SLAs * Regular tabletop exercises for incident response involving vulnerabilities * Technology evaluations to identify automation opportunities ## Tools That Bridge Vulnerability and Patch Management Modern platforms increasingly merge these historically separate functions to create streamlined workflows that reduce security gaps and operational inefficiencies. ### Key Capabilities to Look For When evaluating integrated vulnerability and patch management solutions, several critical capabilities stand out: * **Scan-to-Patch Automation**: Advanced tools create direct pathways from detection to remediation, automatically translating vulnerability findings into actionable patch tasks. This significantly reduces the time between discovery and fix --- a critical metric in security defense. * **Risk-Based Prioritization**: Rather than relying solely on CVSS scores, sophisticated platforms incorporate threat intelligence, asset criticality, and exploit availability to intelligently rank vulnerabilities. This ensures security teams address the most dangerous issues first, maximizing risk reduction with limited resources. * **Auto-Deployment Options**: Look for tools that offer flexible deployment models --- from one-click manual approval to fully automated patch rollouts with predefined maintenance windows. Equally important are rollback capabilities that provide safety nets when patches cause unexpected issues. * **Exception Handling**: Not all vulnerabilities can be patched immediately (or at all). Effective platforms provide structured processes for documenting exceptions, applying compensating controls, and scheduling future remediation, ensuring these cases don't slip through the cracks. ### CWPP's Support for Patch Management [Cloud workload protection platforms (CWPPs)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-cwpp-cloud-workload-protection-platform?ts=markdown) provide runtime protection, monitoring for suspicious behavior and detecting active threats that might exploit unpatched vulnerabilities or zero-day exploits. In this, CWPP acts as a critical safety net if a patch hasn't been applied or if a new vulnerability emerges. While patch management aims to prevent exploits by fixing vulnerabilities, CWPP's runtime protection detects and responds to active exploitation, even if a patch isn't available or hasn't been applied. In essence, a CWPP often acts as an enabling platform for more effective patch management in the cloud. It provides the necessary visibility, vulnerability intelligence, and automation to make patching a more proactive, continuous, and efficient process within the complex and dynamic cloud environment. ### Integration Capabilities The best tools don't exist in isolation but connect seamlessly with your broader security and IT infrastructure: * **CMDB Integration**: Enriches vulnerability data with detailed asset context from configuration management databases * **Ticketing System Connectors**: Automatically creates and updates tickets in ServiceNow, Jira, and other ITSM platforms * **[SIEM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-siem?ts=markdown) Integration**: Feeds vulnerability and patch status into security information platforms for comprehensive risk visibility * **[CI/CD Pipeline](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-the-ci-cd-pipeline-and-ci-cd-security?ts=markdown) Hooks**: Embeds scanning and remediation into development workflows for earlier detection ### Balancing Visibility and Remediation Solutions in this space have different strengths. Some excel at providing deep risk analytics and vulnerability intelligence, while others focus on orchestrating and automating the remediation process. Organizations should evaluate their specific needs when choosing tools --- larger enterprises with established patching processes might prioritize intelligence and prioritization, while smaller teams might benefit from platforms that more actively manage the remediation workflow. As environments expand into hybrid and multicloud architectures, automation becomes non-negotiable. With thousands of assets across diverse environments, manual tracking and remediation simply can't scale. Modern platforms leverage API-based integrations and orchestration capabilities to maintain consistent security postures across all environments, ensuring that vulnerability management and patching operate as a unified, continuous security function. ## Patch Management vs. Vulnerability Management FAQs ### How does an exploit chain influence vulnerability remediation priorities? Security teams must consider exploit chains because even low-severity vulnerabilities can become critical when chained with others. Understanding the full attack path allows practitioners to prioritize fixes that break the chain early, even if individual vulnerabilities seem minor in isolation. ### What is a remediation workflow? A remediation workflow is the structured process of identifying, triaging, patching, and verifying vulnerabilities. Streamlining it involves integrating vulnerability scanners, ticketing systems, patch deployment tools, and communication channels to eliminate delays and reduce friction. Clear ownership, automation, and consistent tracking across teams lead to faster and more reliable remediation. ### What is an exploitability score? An exploitability score reflects how likely it is that a vulnerability can be successfully exploited in a real-world scenario. It considers factors such as the complexity of the exploit, whether user interaction is required, and whether an exploit is already publicly available. Unlike traditional severity metrics --- which rate the potential impact of a vulnerability --- exploitability scoring helps prioritize which issues are most urgent to fix based on ease of attack, not just theoretical damage. ### How does configuration drift interfere with patch and vulnerability management efforts? Configuration drift occurs when system settings deviate from approved baselines over time, often due to unauthorized changes, updates, or user actions. The resulting inconsistency can make systems harder to patch reliably, reintroduce resolved vulnerabilities, or cause remediation to fail silently. Detecting and correcting drift ensures that patching and vulnerability efforts remain effective and repeatable across environments. ### How does attack path analysis expose critical risk from unpatched vulnerabilities? Attack path analysis maps the potential routes an attacker could take through an environment by chaining together vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and access privileges. It helps identify how unpatched issues could serve as steppingstones to critical assets. By understanding these paths, teams can prioritize remediations that break high-risk routes and block lateral movement. ### What is vulnerability saturation? Vulnerability saturation happens when teams are overwhelmed by the volume of vulnerability alerts, many of which are low priority or irrelevant. This overload can desensitize analysts, causing critical issues to be overlooked or delayed. Implementing risk-based filters and context-aware prioritization reduces noise, helping teams focus on vulnerabilities that truly matter. Related Content [Code to Cloud Vulnerability Management Innovative vulnerability management dashboard streamlines discovery, prioritization and remediation of vulns, ensuring robust security from code to cloud.](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/prisma-cloud/vulnerability-management-innovation/?ts=markdown) [Improve Your Multicloud Security Posture Multicloud environments are complex and difficult to secure without a proactive approach to security and visibility.](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources/datasheets/tip-sheet-improve-your-multicloud-security-posture?ts=markdown) [5 Best Practices for Securing Modern Web Applications and APIs As Web apps and APIs evolve, so does the attack surface. Developers and security practitioners need a comprehensive solution to protect their web apps and APIs.](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources/ebooks/5-best-practices-for-securing-modern-web-applications-and-apis?ts=markdown) [State of Cloud-Native Security Report Over 3,000 cloud security and DevOps professionals identify their challenges, how they handle them and what they've learned in the process.](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/state-of-cloud-native-security?ts=markdown) ![Share page on facebook](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/resources/facebook-circular-icon.svg) ![Share page on linkedin](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/resources/linkedin-circular-icon.svg) [![Share page by an email](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/resources/email-circular-icon.svg)](mailto:?subject=Patch%20Management%20Vs.%20Vulnerability%20Management&body=Explore%20how%20patch%20management%20and%20vulnerability%20management%20work%2C%20where%20they%20differ%20and%20overlap%2C%20and%20how%20to%20integrate%20them%20into%20a%20cohesive%20security%20strategy%20at%20https%3A//www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/patch-management-vs-vulnerability-management) Back to Top [Previous](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-scanning?ts=markdown) What Is Vulnerability Scanning? [Next](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/threat-and-vulnerability-management?ts=markdown) What Is Threat and Vulnerability Management? {#footer} ## Products and Services * [AI-Powered Network Security Platform](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security?ts=markdown) * [Secure AI by Design](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/precision-ai-security/secure-ai-by-design?ts=markdown) * [Prisma AIRS](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/prisma/prisma-ai-runtime-security?ts=markdown) * [AI Access Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/ai-access-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Delivered Security Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/security-subscriptions?ts=markdown) * [Advanced Threat Prevention](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-threat-prevention?ts=markdown) * [Advanced URL Filtering](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-url-filtering?ts=markdown) * [Advanced WildFire](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-wildfire?ts=markdown) * [Advanced DNS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-dns-security?ts=markdown) * [Enterprise Data Loss Prevention](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/enterprise-data-loss-prevention?ts=markdown) * [Enterprise IoT Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/enterprise-device-security?ts=markdown) * [Medical IoT Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/medical-device-security?ts=markdown) * [Industrial OT Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/medical-device-security?ts=markdown) * [SaaS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/saas-security?ts=markdown) * [Next-Generation Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/next-generation-firewall?ts=markdown) * [Hardware Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/hardware-firewall-innovations?ts=markdown) * [Software Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/software-firewalls?ts=markdown) * [Strata Cloud Manager](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/strata-cloud-manager?ts=markdown) * [SD-WAN for NGFW](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/sd-wan-subscription?ts=markdown) * [PAN-OS](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/pan-os?ts=markdown) * [Panorama](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/panorama?ts=markdown) * [Secure Access Service Edge](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase?ts=markdown) * [Prisma SASE](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase?ts=markdown) * [Application Acceleration](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/app-acceleration?ts=markdown) * [Autonomous Digital Experience Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/adem?ts=markdown) * [Enterprise DLP](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/enterprise-data-loss-prevention?ts=markdown) * [Prisma Access](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/access?ts=markdown) * [Prisma Browser](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/prisma-browser?ts=markdown) * [Prisma SD-WAN](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/sd-wan?ts=markdown) * [Remote Browser Isolation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/remote-browser-isolation?ts=markdown) * [SaaS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/saas-security?ts=markdown) * [AI-Driven Security Operations Platform](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud?ts=markdown) * [Cortex Cloud](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud?ts=markdown) * [Application Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/application-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Posture Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-posture-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Runtime Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/runtime-security?ts=markdown) * [Prisma Cloud](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/prisma/cloud?ts=markdown) * [AI-Driven SOC](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex?ts=markdown) * [Cortex XSIAM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xsiam?ts=markdown) * [Cortex XDR](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xdr?ts=markdown) * [Cortex XSOAR](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xsoar?ts=markdown) * [Cortex Xpanse](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xpanse?ts=markdown) * [Unit 42 Managed Detection \& Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/managed-detection-and-response?ts=markdown) * [Managed XSIAM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/managed-xsiam?ts=markdown) * [Threat Intel and Incident Response Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42?ts=markdown) * [Proactive Assessments](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/assess?ts=markdown) * [Incident Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/respond?ts=markdown) * [Transform Your Security Strategy](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/transform?ts=markdown) * [Discover Threat Intelligence](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/threat-intelligence-partners?ts=markdown) ## Company * [About Us](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us?ts=markdown) * [Careers](https://jobs.paloaltonetworks.com/en/) * [Contact Us](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/company/contact-sales?ts=markdown) * [Corporate Responsibility](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us/corporate-responsibility?ts=markdown) * [Customers](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/customers?ts=markdown) * [Investor Relations](https://investors.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Location](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us/locations?ts=markdown) * [Newsroom](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/company/newsroom?ts=markdown) ## Popular Links * [Blog](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/?ts=markdown) * [Communities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/communities?ts=markdown) * [Content Library](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources?ts=markdown) * [Cyberpedia](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia?ts=markdown) * [Event Center](https://events.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Manage Email Preferences](https://start.paloaltonetworks.com/preference-center) * [Products A-Z](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/products/products-a-z?ts=markdown) * [Product Certifications](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal-notices/trust-center/compliance?ts=markdown) * [Report a Vulnerability](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/security-disclosure?ts=markdown) * [Sitemap](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sitemap?ts=markdown) * [Tech Docs](https://docs.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Unit 42](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/) * [Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information](https://panwedd.exterro.net/portal/dsar.htm?target=panwedd) ![PAN logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/pan-logo-dark.svg) * [Privacy](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal-notices/privacy?ts=markdown) * [Trust Center](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal-notices/trust-center?ts=markdown) * [Terms of Use](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal-notices/terms-of-use?ts=markdown) * [Documents](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal?ts=markdown) Copyright © 2026 Palo Alto Networks. All Rights Reserved * [![Youtube](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/social/youtube-black.svg)](https://www.youtube.com/user/paloaltonetworks) * [![Podcast](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/icons/podcast.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/podcasts/threat-vector?ts=markdown) * [![Facebook](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/social/facebook-black.svg)](https://www.facebook.com/PaloAltoNetworks/) * [![LinkedIn](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/social/linkedin-black.svg)](https://www.linkedin.com/company/palo-alto-networks) * [![Twitter](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/social/twitter-x-black.svg)](https://twitter.com/PaloAltoNtwks) * EN Select your language