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Patching is Not the Only Form of Remediation

by Zac Youtz

When it comes to remediating security vulnerabilities, patching is often the first solution that comes to mind. While patching is a critical part of vulnerability management, it is far from the only approach. The reality is that security teams need a range of remediation options to align with business needs, operational constraints, and risk management strategies.

The Problem with a Patch-Only Mentality

Software vulnerabilities are diverse, and so are the environments they exist in. While patching is ideal in many cases, it is not always feasible or immediate. Organizations face challenges such as:

  • Legacy Systems – Some critical business applications run on outdated software that cannot be patched without breaking functionality.
  • Operational Downtime – Applying patches may require system reboots or downtime, which can disrupt business operations.
  • Third-Party Dependencies – Some software relies on third-party vendors to issue patches, leading to delays beyond an organization's control.
  • Compliance and Testing Requirements – Certain industries require extensive testing before deploying patches, which can introduce significant delays.
  • End-User Managed Software – Some business-critical software is installed and maintained by end users rather than IT. While users may be responsible for updates, they are often overlooked in remediation efforts, leading to confusion and gaps in ownership between IT and Security.

Primary Approaches to Remediation

Security teams must adopt a broader approach to vulnerability remediation beyond just patching. The primary remediation methods include:

1. Patching Through Automated Systems

When possible, vulnerabilities should be addressed through automated patch management solutions. These systems can deploy patches rapidly across an organization, reducing exposure time and minimizing manual intervention.

2. Patching Through Owner Outreach

In cases where automated patching is not feasible, security teams may need to engage asset owners to apply updates manually. This approach ensures patching occurs while balancing business needs and operational constraints.

Many vulnerabilities can be mitigated or even resolved by adjusting system or application configurations. Disabling vulnerable services, enforcing stricter access controls, or modifying firewall rules can reduce exposure without requiring a patch and are often the recommended remediation strategy according to vendors and best practices.

4. Removal and/or Replacement of Software

Sometimes the best remediation is removing an outdated or unpatchable system from the environment. Migrating to a more secure platform or decommissioning unnecessary software can be a strategic long-term solution.

5. Mitigating Controls

When patching or configuration changes are not possible, mitigating controls can help reduce risk. These include network segmentation, intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS), web application firewalls (WAFs), and enhanced monitoring. While not a pure remediation, these controls effectively minimize the security burden when no other solution is viable.

Choosing the Right Remediation Approach

The best remediation strategy depends on multiple factors, including:

  • Severity and Exploitability – How critical is the vulnerability, and is it actively being exploited?
  • Business Impact – Will applying a patch or alternative control disrupt essential operations?
  • Availability of Fixes – Is a patch available, or do we need an interim solution?
  • Compliance and Industry Regulations – Does the chosen remediation align with security and compliance mandates?

Conclusion

Patching is a crucial component of vulnerability remediation, but it is not the only option. Organizations must consider a variety of approaches based on their unique risk profiles, operational constraints, and business requirements. By expanding beyond a patch-only mindset, security teams can build a more resilient and adaptable approach to vulnerability management.

At Furl, we recognize the need for flexibility in remediation. Our AI-driven approach helps organizations assess vulnerabilities, recommend the best course of action, and automate the remediation process—whether it involves patching through automated systems, owner outreach, configuration changes, software replacement, or mitigating controls. Sign up today to learn how Furl can help streamline your security remediation efforts.