What does patch management involve?

Patch management is a critical aspect of maintaining the security and integrity of software systems. It involves the regular process of identifying, acquiring, installing, and verifying patches or updates for software applications and systems. These patches are typically released by software vendors to address vulnerabilities, fix bugs, and sometimes introduce new features, although the primary focus in the context of security is on addressing vulnerabilities.

Regularly updating software patches serves to safeguard systems against threats and exploits that could otherwise take advantage of known weaknesses. By ensuring that software is kept up-to-date, organizations can significantly reduce their risk profile, protecting sensitive data and maintaining operational continuity.

The other options do not accurately encapsulate what patch management entails. Implementing new features alone does not ensure coverage of security vulnerabilities, deleting old software applications is focused on software lifecycle management rather than security, and monitoring user behavior relates to a different aspect of cybersecurity focused on user interactions rather than the software itself. Thus, the emphasis on updating and maintaining software patches highlights the proactive measures required to secure systems effectively.