Patch Management Policy
A patch management policy template defining how security patches are identified, risk-rated, tested and deployed within defined timeframes, aligned to ISO 27001, NIST SP 800-53, PCI DSS and NIST CSF.
What's Included
1. Purpose & Scope
Defines the objective and the asset classes the policy covers.
2. Patch Identification
Establishes how the organisation learns a patch exists.
3. Risk Rating & Timeframes
Ties deployment deadlines to severity so urgency is not discretionary.
4. Testing
Requires validation before production deployment where feasible.
5. Deployment
Governs scheduled and emergency patch release.
6. Exceptions & Compensating Controls
Handles systems that cannot be patched in the required window.
7. Verification & Reporting
Confirms patches actually applied and reports coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a patch management policy include?
A comprehensive patch management policy should include purpose & scope, patch identification, risk rating & timeframes, testing, and more. This template covers 7 key sections aligned to ISO 27001, NIST SP 800-53, PCI DSS, NIST CSF requirements.
Which frameworks require a information security policy?
Major frameworks requiring information security policies include ISO 27001, NIST SP 800-53, PCI DSS, NIST CSF. This template maps directly to their control requirements, making it easier to demonstrate compliance across multiple standards.
How often should a patch management policy be reviewed?
Best practice is to review your patch management policy at least annually, or whenever significant changes occur in your organisation, technology environment, or regulatory landscape. Most frameworks including ISO 27001 and NIST CSF require documented policy review cycles.
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