As anyone who uses computers and smart devices knows, operating systems often need to be updated to fix bugs, improve security or implement new features. These software \"patches\" are deployed by developers to ensure end users have the most up-to-date version available. It's important for a business to have a process in place for managing system updates and getting every employee on board with installing patches as they become available. Here's what you should know about patch management and how it impacts the security of your business software.
\r\n\r\nPatch management is the process organizations use to deploy and install software patches to their entire network of devices. An established patch management process helps protect your network from cyberattacks and ensures that all the systems your employees use for their daily workflows are up to date.
\r\n\"The majority of cybersecurity breaches stem from unpatched vulnerabilities and outdated systems,\" said Christopher Hass, director of information security and research at Automox. \"For example, the WannaCry ransomware attack exploited organizations that failed to stay up to date with Windows patches or used old systems that no longer receive security updates.\"
\r\nPatches are released on a regular or as-needed basis by software developers and network administrators. End users are often notified by pop-up notifications on their devices to update their software.
\r\nIndividual users of personal devices may ignore these notifications and let weeks or months go by before they install the patch. For businesses with a multitude of devices containing sensitive data, ignoring these patch updates could be an enormous cybersecurity risk.
\r\n\"With the shift to remote work, employees at home are more vulnerable to cybersecurity threats as they leave their organization's secure network and will likely dismiss any computer updates to avoid disruptions to their workflow,\" Hass told business.com. \"Without a proper – and modern – patch management process that can see and manage endpoints outside the corporate VPN, IT teams will have a difficult time applying updates remotely, and these endpoints will become even more vulnerable for cyberattacks.\"
\r\nTools like remote PC access software can help with patch management. By remotely accessing employees' desktops, IT staff can install patches on a user's behalf. They will also test the patch to make sure it is working correctly, and that the user has no questions or issues when using it. Companies may also opt to use patch management tools that automate the process and install updates remotely as soon as they become available.
\r\nThere are various reasons why companies need a patch management process for their business devices and systems.
\r\nFirst and foremost, patch management helps keep all your systems and software secure. The updates to your software and applications fix vulnerabilities in the programming that could potentially lead to cyberattacks.
\r\n\"It's important that businesses have a plan to regularly review and apply vendor-provided software patches and updates to ensure systems stay secure and protected against malicious threats like malware,\" said Mieng Lim, vice president of product management at Digital Defense Inc.
\r\nPatches aren't always just for security fixes. They can also come with updates to existing programs, giving them additional features and making them run more efficiently. If your device is running on an outdated version of a system, it could take longer to run the program, wasting your company's time. By updating applications as soon as the patch is ready, you can help ensure that your system will run smoothly.
\r\nMany organizations must maintain a certain level of regulatory compliance to reduce the rate of cyberattacks. Patch management is often one piece of a corporate compliance policy. It gives companies an extra layer of security and liability to protect themselves and their partners' information. If your business does not comply with these standards, you could be subject to monetary fines.
\r\nPatches can add new features to existing software and applications to improve your workflow. New features often simplify existing processes and boost efficiency. Having everybody on the same patch gives your company a certain consistency, preventing discrepancies between an updated device and an outdated one.
\r\nRegular maintenance of your software and applications protects your company's data, files and information. It also protects your employees from potential security breaches and lets them work in a free and secure environment.
\r\nYour clients and partners will be happy to know you are taking necessary and regular steps to protect their data. Knowing that you have an active patch management system, your customers will feel valued and know they are in good hands. This can lead to future sales and customer loyalty.
\r\nPatch management will update your software and applications with new features that improve their functionality for your employees. These features can give your business new ways to optimize your workflow and lead you to discover new processes, products, and services that also help your productivity.
\r\nWith multiple systems, assets, and applications, implementing a routine patch management process can be complicated. However, once you've implemented it, it will save your company time and effort while maximizing productivity. Here are the steps to create that process:
\r\nFirst, catalog all of the IT assets within your network based on device type, operating system, current operating system version and hardware. If your organization is using multiple versions of the same software, consolidate versions as much as possible. This keeps your employees on the same page and standardizes your inventory to be more efficient.
\r\n\"Securing endpoints should be the top priority for IT teams if businesses want to avoid dealing with preventable cyberattacks,\" Hass said. \"Ensuring proper use of limited IT resources is vital for small business owners, and implementing software solutions to help streamline patch management can help their IT teams be as efficient as possible.\"
\r\nYou also want to list all of your existing security controls, including firewalls, antitrust software and vulnerability management tools. Knowing where they are located, what they protect, and what systems they are running on makes them easier to update and maintain.
\r\nWhile creating your inventory list, you may come across some vulnerabilities within your software and systems. You'll need a process for identifying and mitigating these vulnerabilities.
\r\n\"Small businesses should opt for a penetration test, an ethical hacking exercise to identify vulnerabilities and assess your current security controls,\" said Harman Singh, a director at Cyphere. \"This technical gap analysis works like a validation after your security work to assure that your business is safe from cyberattacks.\"
\r\nIf you find a risk, classify it and focus on updating your system to eliminate it. Prioritize the systems that are most important to the function of your organization. Determine which systems need to be updated first and which users need to receive those patches first.
\r\nUsing a smaller representative sample of your assets, conduct a stress test to make sure that once the patch is installed, it will not cause any issues with other applications in your network. Test your fixes on every device and application that will be updated.
\r\n\"Each system configuration is different, and vendors don't always know how their patch will impact your systems,\" Lim explained.
\r\nSingh agreed, noting that patching may sometimes introduce new risks to an environment. \"Applying the latest patches may break compatibility with software or other dependencies relying on it.\"
\r\nIf the patch passes the stress test, it's time to install it. Start with the highest-priority devices and users, then roll out the patches from there. Inform users of available updates, and make sure they understand it's important to install it as soon as they can.
\r\nAs the patch is being installed, continually monitor your assets to make sure there are no unexpected results in production. If there are, have your IT department assess the issue and create a solution. Monitor the patch over an extended period so you can make sure it is successful over the long term.
\r\n\"Know that patch management is not a one-and-done; it's a continuing process,\" Lim said. \"As your environment changes and threats evolve, so will your patch management strategy.\"
\n","docType":"article","guid":"articles_53ef0701a913125a7a47c5e49f2f21f7","lastModified":"2021-03-11T12:30:00.000Z","published":"2021-03-11T12:30:00.000Z","structuredData":null,"subtitle":"A solid patch management system keeps all your company's devices and software up to date and secure.","template":"v1","title":"What Is Patch Management?","type":"article","author":{"avatar":"https://staging.business.com/images/author/5c8/9bd467b4374b2188b459e/100-100","bio":"Nicole Fallon has written hundreds of B2B-focused articles on topics such as marketing, business technology, leadership, and HR/organizational management. In addition to covering small business trends and software reviews, Nicole runs a digital marketing agency, where she and her team create high-quality content for a wide range of B2B and B2C brands.","name":"Nicole Fallon","image":null,"slug":null,"social":{"facebook":"","linkedin":"https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolemariefallon/","twitter":"https://twitter.com/nicolemfallon","website":"https://lightningmediapartners.com/"},"status":"enabled","title":null,"type":"Old BDC Member","user":{"imagePath":"https://staging.business.com/images/undefined","profile":{"company":"Indra","jobTitle":"consultor SAP","website":""}}},"breadcrumbs":{"primary":{"name":"Patch Management","slug":"patch-management"},"sub":null},"channels":{"primary":{"name":"Technology","slug":"technology"},"sub":{"name":"Security","slug":"security"}},"meta":{"robots":"index, follow","description":"By creating a patch management system, your company can keep all of its devices and software up to date and secure.","title":"How to Create a Patch Management System - business.com"},"parsedContent":{"toc":[{"id":"what-is-patch-management","title":"What is patch management?"},{"id":"how-does-patch-management-work","title":"How does patch management work?"},{"id":"why-do-companies-need-patch-management","title":"Why do companies need patch management?"},{"id":"what-are-the-benefits-of-patch-management","title":"What are the benefits of patch management?"},{"id":"how-to-implement-a-patch-management-process","title":"How to implement a patch management process"}],"json":[{"component":"p","children":["As anyone who uses computers and smart devices knows, operating systems often need to be updated to fix bugs, improve security or implement new features. These software \"patches\" are deployed by developers to ensure end users have the most up-to-date version available. It's important for a business to have a process in place for managing system updates and getting every employee on board with installing patches as they become available. Here's what you should know about patch management and how it impacts the security of your business software."]},{"component":"BestPicks","props":{"id":"BestPicksPlaceHolder","className":"widget-best-picks placeholder","data-mce-contenteditable":"false"},"children":["Best Pick Cards"]},{"component":"h2","props":{"id":"what-is-patch-management"},"children":["What is patch management?"]},{"component":"p","children":["Patch management is the process organizations use to ",{"component":"Link","props":{"href":"https://www.business.com/articles/patch-rollout-plan-powershell/"},"children":["deploy and install software patches"]}," to their entire network of devices. An established patch management process helps protect your network from cyberattacks and ensures that all the systems your employees use for their daily workflows are up to date."]},{"component":"p","children":["\"The majority of cybersecurity breaches stem from unpatched vulnerabilities and outdated systems,\" said Christopher Hass, director of information security and research at Automox. \"For example, the WannaCry ransomware attack exploited organizations that failed to stay up to date with ",{"component":"Link","props":{"href":"https://www.business.com/articles/install-windows-patches-powershell/"},"children":["Windows patches"]}," or used old systems that no longer receive security updates.\""]},{"component":"h2","props":{"id":"how-does-patch-management-work"},"children":["How does patch management work?"]},{"component":"p","children":["Patches are released on a regular or as-needed basis by software developers and network administrators. End users are often notified by pop-up notifications on their devices to update their software."]},{"component":"p","children":["Individual users of personal devices may ignore these notifications and let weeks or months go by before they install the patch. For businesses with a multitude of devices containing sensitive data, ignoring these patch updates could be an enormous ",{"component":"Link","props":{"href":"https://www.business.com/articles/assess-small-business-cybersecurity/"},"children":["cybersecurity risk"]},"."]},{"component":"p","children":["\"With the shift to remote work, employees at home are more vulnerable to cybersecurity threats as they leave their organization's secure network and will likely dismiss any computer updates to avoid disruptions to their workflow,\" Hass told business.com. \"Without a proper – and modern – patch management process that can see and manage endpoints ",{"component":"Link","props":{"href":"https://www.business.com/articles/vpn-alternatives/"},"children":["outside the corporate VPN"]},", IT teams will have a difficult time ",{"component":"Link","props":{"href":"http://www.business.com/articles/remote-work-management"},"children":["applying updates remotely"]},", and these endpoints will become even more vulnerable for cyberattacks.\""]},{"component":"p","children":["Tools like",{"component":"a","props":{"href":"https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/9448-best-remote-access-software.html","rel":"nofollow"},"children":[" "]},{"component":"Link","props":{"href":"https://www.business.com/categories/best-remote-pc-access-software/"},"children":["remote PC access software"]}," can help with patch management. By",{"component":"a","props":{"href":"https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/5279-remote-desktop.html","rel":"nofollow"},"children":[" "]},"remotely accessing employees' desktops, IT staff can install patches on a user's behalf. They will also test the patch to make sure it is working correctly, and that the user has no questions or issues when using it. Companies may also opt to use patch management tools that automate the process and install updates remotely as soon as they become available."]},{"component":"h2","props":{"id":"why-do-companies-need-patch-management"},"children":["Why do companies need patch management?"]},{"component":"p","children":["There are various reasons why companies need a patch management process for their business devices and systems."]},{"component":"h3","children":["Security"]},{"component":"p","children":["First and foremost, patch management helps keep all your systems and software secure. The updates to your software and applications fix vulnerabilities in the programming that could potentially lead to",{"component":"Link","props":{"href":"https://www.business.com/articles/what-is-cyberinsurance/"},"children":[" "]},"cyberattacks."]},{"component":"p","children":["\"It's important that businesses have a plan to regularly review and apply vendor-provided software patches and updates to ensure systems stay secure and protected against malicious threats like malware,\" said Mieng Lim, vice president of product management at Digital Defense Inc."]},{"component":"h3","children":["System uptime"]},{"component":"p","children":["Patches aren't always just for security fixes. They can also come with updates to existing programs, giving them additional features and making them run more efficiently. If your device is running on an outdated version of a system, it could take longer to run the program, wasting your company's time. By updating applications as soon as the patch is ready, you can help ensure that your system will run smoothly."]},{"component":"h3","children":["Compliance"]},{"component":"p","children":["Many organizations must maintain a certain level of regulatory compliance to reduce the rate of cyberattacks. Patch management is often one piece of a corporate compliance policy. It gives companies an extra layer of security and liability to protect themselves and their partners' information. If your business does not comply with these standards, you could be subject to monetary fines."]},{"component":"h3","children":["Feature improvements"]},{"component":"p","children":["Patches can add new features to existing software and applications to ",{"component":"Link","props":{"href":"https://www.business.com/articles/5-ways-to-improve-your-office-workflow/"},"children":["improve your workflow"]},". New features often simplify existing processes and boost efficiency. Having everybody on the same patch gives your company a certain consistency, preventing discrepancies between an updated device and an outdated one."]},{"component":"h2","props":{"id":"what-are-the-benefits-of-patch-management"},"children":["What are the benefits of patch management?"]},{"component":"h3","children":["A more secure environment"]},{"component":"p","children":["Regular maintenance of your software and applications protects your company's data,",{"component":"a","props":{"href":"https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/6827-file-sharing-security.html","rel":"nofollow"},"children":[" "]},"files and information. It also protects your employees from potential security breaches and lets them work in a free and secure environment."]},{"component":"h3","children":["Satisfied customers"]},{"component":"p","children":["Your clients and partners will be happy to know you are taking necessary and regular steps to protect their data. Knowing that you have an active patch management system, your customers will feel valued and know they are in good hands. This can lead to future sales and customer loyalty."]},{"component":"h3","children":["Greater product innovation"]},{"component":"p","children":["Patch management will update your software and applications with new features that improve their functionality for your employees. These features can give your business new ways to optimize your workflow and lead you to discover new processes, products, and services that also help your productivity."]},{"component":"h2","props":{"id":"how-to-implement-a-patch-management-process"},"children":["How to implement a patch management process"]},{"component":"p","children":["With multiple systems, assets, and applications, implementing a routine patch management process can be complicated. However, once you've implemented it, it will save your company time and effort while maximizing productivity. Here are the steps to create that",{"component":"a","props":{"href":"https://www.secpod.com/blog/patch-management-best-practices-for-2020/","rel":"nofollow"},"children":[" "]},"process:"]},{"component":"h3","children":["1. Develop an up-to-date list of endpoints and security controls."]},{"component":"p","children":["First, catalog all of the IT assets within your network based on device type, operating system, current operating system version and hardware. If your organization is using multiple versions of the same software, consolidate versions as much as possible. This keeps your employees on the same page and standardizes your inventory to be more efficient."]},{"component":"p","children":["\"Securing endpoints should be the top priority for IT teams if businesses want to avoid dealing with preventable cyberattacks,\" Hass said. \"Ensuring proper use of limited IT resources is vital for small business owners, and implementing software solutions to help streamline patch management can help their IT teams be as efficient as possible.\""]},{"component":"p","children":["You also want to list all of your ",{"component":"Link","props":{"href":"https://www.business.com/articles/endpoint-protection-vs-anti-malware-business/"},"children":["existing security controls"]},", including firewalls, antitrust software and vulnerability management tools. Knowing where they are located, what they protect, and what systems they are running on makes them easier to update and maintain."]},{"component":"h3","children":["2. Identify and classify security risks."]},{"component":"p","children":["While creating your inventory list, you may come across some vulnerabilities within your software and systems. You'll need a process for identifying and mitigating these vulnerabilities."]},{"component":"p","children":["\"Small businesses should opt for a penetration test, an ethical hacking exercise to identify vulnerabilities and assess your current security controls,\" said Harman Singh, a director at Cyphere. \"This technical gap analysis works like a validation after your security work to assure that your business is safe from cyberattacks.\""]},{"component":"p","children":["If you find a risk, classify it and focus on updating your system to eliminate it. Prioritize the systems that are most important to the function of your organization. Determine which systems need to be updated first and which users need to receive those patches first."]},{"component":"h3","children":["3. Test and apply patches."]},{"component":"p","children":["Using a smaller representative sample of your assets, conduct a stress test to make sure that once the patch is installed, it will not cause any issues with other applications in your network. Test your fixes on every device and application that will be updated."]},{"component":"p","children":["\"Each system configuration is different, and vendors don't always know how their patch will impact your systems,\" Lim explained."]},{"component":"p","children":["Singh agreed, noting that patching may sometimes introduce new risks to an environment. \"Applying the latest patches may break compatibility with software or other dependencies relying on it.\""]},{"component":"p","children":["If the patch passes the stress test, it's time to install it. Start with the highest-priority devices and users, then roll out the patches from there. Inform users of available updates, and make sure they understand it's important to install it as soon as they can."]},{"component":"h3","children":["4. Track your progress and revisit your process frequently."]},{"component":"p","children":["As the patch is being installed, continually monitor your assets to make sure there are no unexpected results in production. If there are, have your IT department assess the issue and create a solution. Monitor the patch over an extended period so you can make sure it is successful over the long term."]},{"component":"p","children":["\"Know that patch management is not a one-and-done; it's a continuing process,\" Lim said. \"As your environment changes and threats evolve, so will your patch management strategy.\""]}]},"resource":null,"sponsorship":{"sponsorType":"no-sponsor","name":null,"thumbnail":null,"bio":null,"slug":null,"status":null,"social":{"website":null,"linkedin":null,"twitter":null,"facebook":null}},"thumbnail":{"path":"https://staging.business.com/images/content/604/91ba59c658afc6d8b4567/1500-0-","caption":"RossHelen / Getty Images","isBlurred":false},"bestPicks":{"title":"The Best Access Control Systems of 2021","widgetSection":{"__typename":"SectionWidget","widget":{"widgetId":"10056"}},"bestPicksSection":{"__typename":"SectionBestPicks","bestpicks":[{"fullTitle":"Featured Sponsor","bullets":["Key fob or keypad entry","24/7 emergency dispatch","No installation fees"],"isFeaturedBestPick":false,"isJumpLink":false,"tabTitle":"Featured Sponsor","review":{"isReview":true,"adsense":false,"canonical":"https://staging.business.com/reviews/simplisafe/","review":{"fullReview":"SimpliSafe is an easy-to-use business security system that can be set up in under an hour. After that, it protects every inch of your property 24/7 with emergency dispatch and instant alerts for break-ins, power outages, leaks and dangerous temperature changes. With this system, you no longer have to worry about whether your business is safe. However, it lacks many of the access control features we looked for.
\r\nSimpliSafe offers four security packages that you can choose from based on the size of your home or business. These packages are broken down below:
\r\nYou can also design a custom security system and purchase extra sensors if you need them. SimpliSafe doesn't require any contracts and offers the option of 24/7 monitoring.
\r\nWith SimpliSafe, you can choose the type of monitoring you want. Options include sensors for doors and windows, motion detectors, freeze and water sensors, and HD security cameras. The system is easy to set up: It arrives ready to go, and it can be set up in under an hour, with no professional installation required. It's also easy to use. Securing your property takes seconds with a key fob or keypad, and employees can also use a unique PIN code to enter the building when a manager isn't there.
\r\nHere are more of SimpliSafe's notable features:
\r\nSimpliSafe offers a thoughtfully designed, easy-to-use, budget-friendly security system that makes it easy for small businesses to secure their facilities. The packages are reasonably priced for different sizes of business, and the hardware is built to last and simple to set up on your own.
\r\nWhile SimpliSafe is an excellent security system, it has little to offer in the way of access control. The only features it offers specifically to control access to your building are keypads, key fobs and entry sensors. The focus of the company is more on home security than business access control.
\r\nYou can reach SimpliSafe by phone or email. Additionally, its online resource center allows you to find answers to your questions about the system on your own.
"},"url":"https://simplisafe.com/","docType":"service","title":"SimpliSafe","thumbnail":{"path":"https://staging.business.com/images/rz/5e961ead7b4374120a8b4572/simplisafe.png"},"pricing":{"isCapped":false,"isFeatured":false,"primary":true,"selected":"affiliate","widgetId":null,"widget":null,"affiliate":{"cta":"Visit Site","link":"https://www.amazon.com","name":"Amazon"}}}},{"fullTitle":"Best Access Control System Overall","bullets":["Three service plan options","Phone, key card or fob options","Mobile app for remote management"],"isFeaturedBestPick":false,"isJumpLink":false,"tabTitle":"Best Overall","review":{"isReview":true,"adsense":false,"canonical":"https://staging.business.com/access-control-systems/kisi/","review":{"fullReview":"Kisi provides a flexible, modern system that works well for every type of business. With a wide range of employee access options, a mobile app for remote management and integration with other services, you can create the exact access control setup your business needs. For these reasons, Kisi is our choice as the best access control system overall.
\r\nKisi's access control system consists of four parts: mobile and card access, a wall reader, cloud management and the Kisi controller.
\r\nKisi's hardware is simple, with the following options:
\r\nOther options for control panels are available from LifeSafety Power, a third-party equipment provider.
\r\nThe software comes in three plan options, all of which include the Kisi management dashboard and mobile credentials. Licenses are set per user and per door on a monthly, yearly or multiyear basis. You'll need to contact Kisi for a personalized quote. Here is a breakdown of each plan:
\r\nKisi offers a 30-day trial for all of its plans. It does provide international shipping.
\r\nKisi provides several options for building access. Employees can use phones, key cards or fobs that work with a reader. You can even set the system to grant access using a temporary link sent to an employee's phone. Here's more of what Kisi offers:
\r\nWe like Kisi because it is a modern, flexible system that can be adjusted to suit many different business types and sizes. It is hosted in the cloud, which means maintenance and updates are simple and easy, and you don't have to worry about losing your data. Additionally, using the cloud means there is no need for local servers, and you can manage your system from anywhere.
\r\nKisi also has an open API, which allows it to integrate with many other products and software, including Okta, Cisco, Coworks, Azure and more.
\r\nKisi offers simple hardware options, so if you're looking for a highly customizable system with lots of hardware options, Kisi may not be the best system for you.
\r\nKisi offers exemplary support and resource options on its website, including product sheets of its access control systems and a community section where there are answers and topics relating to Kisi's access control systems. If you need to contact Kisi, the best way is by phone or email, as there is no live chat.
"},"url":"https://getkisi.com","docType":"service","title":"Kisi","thumbnail":{"path":"https://staging.business.com/images/rz/5ff4bfd97b4374c7458b4567/kisi.png"},"pricing":{"isCapped":false,"isFeatured":false,"primary":true,"selected":"widget","widgetId":"10056","widget":{"id":"10056","cta":"Compare Quotes","isExclusive":false},"affiliate":{"cta":"Visit Site","link":"https://getkisi.com","name":""}}}},{"fullTitle":"Best Low-Cost Access Control System","bullets":["Two software plans","Web browser interface","Proximity or keypad door readers"],"isFeaturedBestPick":false,"isJumpLink":true,"tabTitle":"Best Low-Cost System","review":{"isReview":true,"adsense":false,"canonical":"https://staging.business.com/reviews/isonas/","review":{"fullReview":"ISONAS provides Pure IP access control, which uses your existing network connection rather than depending on wiring and panels on each door. ISONAS also sells hardware to convert older systems into IP systems that are compatible with their access management software suite.
\r\nTo see all our recommendations for access control systems, see our best picks page.
\r\nFor the most accurate pricing according to your business and its needs, contact ISONAS directly for a quote.
\r\nISONAS sells its software and hardware products separately, so you have full control over what products you use in your business. Because ISONAS requires limited hardware and no software infrastructure, it's a budget-friendly system. It also has easy installation and web-based training that helps lower costs.
\r\nISONAS offers two software options: Pure Access Cloud and Pure Access Manager. Pure Access Cloud is available as a fully hosted version in the cloud or on-premises. The reader-controllers are preconfigured to the cloud and require a network connection onsite, which makes getting up and running simple.
\r\nPure Access Manager is the on-premise version of Pure Access and allows you to manage your access control from any device within your network.
\r\nFor hardware, you will at least need a reader, controller and credentials, whether physical, like key cards or fobs, or mobile, like an app. If your reader will be outside the building, consider buying a weatherproofing kit to protect it from the elements.
\r\nISONAS' biggest draw is that it offers minimal hardware and easy-to-use software that come with a cloud-based management system. This makes it easy for very small businesses to set it up and provide (and manage) access for their employees.
\r\nBecause ISONAS employs Pure IP access control, it is able to keep costs down by eliminating unnecessary hardware and installation.
\r\nISONAS offers door readers in two varieties: proximity card-only or keypad and card. There is no biometric reader or mobile phone option. The readers themselves are intelligent and store most of the data for the system, allowing them to make authentication decisions and open doors even if the network is down. ISONAS allows you to use third-party credentials with its system, but it offers its own proprietary credentials, including mobile, badge cards, cap tags, key fobs and thin cards.
\r\nHowever, ISONAS doesn't offer certain safety integrations that can be essential parts of a comprehensive access control system. For instance, a fire and hold-up alarm are missing. The system does give you the ability to immediately void credentials if an employee leaves the company or if any misuse is detected.
\r\nISONAS also allows third-party software manufacturers to use ISONAS hardware products.
\r\nYou access the system's report interface through a web browser on any device with an internet connection, including laptops, tablets and smartphones. The interface gives detailed reports on unlock times, credential usage and suspicious events. You can also set up an anti-passback system to require employees to use an exit reader, so you can see when they enter and leave. A separate video management system can be integrated with the IP system.
\r\nISONAS-Milestone (IMACX) is an integration that provides users with a single interface to control doors and manage alarms. IMACX is compatible with Pure Access Cloud and Manager.
\r\nWe received quick and informative customer service when we contacted this company. There is a support portal for customers with a login, but no live chat support. You can also submit a support ticket.
\r\nISONAS offers a variety of technical resources such as support documentation, videos and handy installation guides on its website to familiarize you with the various components of its system.
\r\nThere are several support and warranty options available depending on what components you purchase, including single-case support, annual support and extended hardware warranties.
\r\nEditor's note: Looking for an access control system for your business? Fill out the questionnaire below to have our vendor partners contact you about your needs.
"},"url":"https://www.isonas.com/","docType":"service","title":"ISONAS","thumbnail":{"path":"https://staging.business.com/images/rz/5ff4c22e7b4374f3458b4567/ISONAS.png"},"pricing":{"isCapped":false,"isFeatured":false,"primary":true,"selected":"widget-affiliate","widgetId":"10056","widget":{"id":"10056","cta":"Compare Quotes","isExclusive":false},"affiliate":{"cta":"Visit Site","link":"https://www.buyerzone.com","name":"BuyerZone"}}}},{"fullTitle":"Best for Businesses with Multiple Locations","bullets":["Three service plans","Fire/intrusion alarm integration","Intelligent door readers"],"isFeaturedBestPick":false,"isJumpLink":true,"tabTitle":"Best for Multilocation Businesses","review":{"isReview":true,"adsense":false,"canonical":"https://staging.business.com/reviews/vanderbilt-industries/","review":{"fullReview":"Vanderbilt offers high-quality hardware that more than meets industry standards for access control systems, with intelligent door readers and encrypted smart cards. Vanderbilt is our best pick for businesses with multiple doors because it offers access control systems that are easy to scale and have no limit on the number of supported doors.
\r\nVanderbilt's web-based solutions for small and midsize businesses, Lite Blue and Bright Blue, allow business owners to immediately lock down the facility with the push of a button.
\r\nFor small businesses, Vanderbilt's web-based solutions, Lite Blue and Bright Blue, allow business owners to immediately lock down the facility with the push of a button.
\r\nThe Lite Blue system monitors up to eight doors and can support up to 5,000 cardholders. For businesses wanting to add video surveillance to their system, Lite Blue can easily integrate with the company's video surveillance and recording equipment.
\r\nBright Blue is designed for midsize businesses. It too has the capacity to handle 5,000 card users, and the platform monitors up to 32 doors. You can access the interface on any internet-connected computer and view a full log of your employees' entry history. It has unlimited memory for storing these records. As with the Lite Blue system, you can add video surveillance and monitoring.
\r\nA third option, ACT365, is suited for businesses with multiple sites, such as retail shops, gyms and restaurants. It provides access control, as well as video recording and playback. The access control system uses PIN codes, cards and fob keys that allow employees to gain access to your building. It also easily integrates with video management and supports up to four cameras per unit.
\r\nVanderbilt also offers maintenance contracts for its system, but these services relate to software upgrades, health checks for your system and discounted training.
\r\nWith the reporting and administration interface, you can monitor employees' activities and set up notifications for any activity you deem suspicious. All of Vanderbilt's systems give you complete control over the security of your building. You can easily activate and deactivate access for employees and others. Vanderbilt's fire and intrusion alarms can also be tied into the system for more comprehensive coverage.
\r\nVanderbilt also offers a security management system that integrates your facility's access control technologies with your digital video and alarm monitoring systems to allow you to manage all of your security from a single platform.
\r\nWe contacted Vanderbilt Industries to evaluate its customer service. While representatives answered most of our questions, it took some time to get through to anyone with specialized knowledge beyond a sales pitch.
\r\nHowever, Vanderbilt Industries is a manufacturer that works with distributors and dealers. If you have a question or concern about your system, the best resource is your local dealer.
\r\nThe company does offer support resources for customers. There is live chat, and you can call the company's toll-free number or submit a request to be contacted on Vanderbilt's website. There is a calendar of training events on the website, but there isn't much documentation available. Again, the best bet for answering questions about your Vanderbilt access control system is likely the dealer from whom you purchased the system.
\r\nOctober 2020: Vanderbilt Industries has introduced Mobile Act ID, a cloud-based, zero-touch credential option that allows administrators to easily control access and authenticate users via the cloud. The credential seamlessly integrates with all of Vanderbilt's access control platforms and does not require extra subscriptions or fees. This feature allows users to quickly issue new credentials and to grant and restrict access to facilities.
\r\nEditor's note: Looking for an access control system for your business? Fill out the questionnaire below to have our vendor partners contact you about your needs.
"},"url":"https://usa.vanderbiltindustries.com/","docType":"service","title":"Vanderbilt Industries","thumbnail":{"path":"https://staging.business.com/images/rev/prod/ce/57698-siemens-box.jpg"},"pricing":{"isCapped":null,"isFeatured":false,"primary":false,"selected":"no-monetization","widgetId":"","widget":null,"affiliate":{"cta":null,"link":"https://usa.vanderbiltindustries.com/","name":null}}}},{"fullTitle":"Best Video Surveillance System ","bullets":["Customizable solutions","Card and PIN entry access","24/7 monitoring"],"isFeaturedBestPick":false,"isJumpLink":true,"tabTitle":"Best for Video Surveillance","review":{"isReview":true,"adsense":false,"canonical":"https://staging.business.com/access-control-systems/adt/review/","review":{"fullReview":"ADT offers significant customization options so you can design an access control system that works for your business. If you want to integrate access control with other security features, such as burglary and fire monitoring, video surveillance, and remote arm and disarm, ADT will work with you to customize a security solution to suit your needs. Such integration is the main reason ADT is our best pick for video surveillance. ADT is experienced in security and offers several customization options to make sure your business is covered.
\r\nTo see all our recommendations for access control systems, see our best picks page.
\r\nADT integrates access control with other security features for your business. If you want a very minimal system, ADT offers Business Basic that is just burglary and hold-up alarm monitoring, temperature monitoring and flood detection.
\r\nADT's other business security solutions fall under the Pulse for Business name. There is ADT Pulse Premise Control, which offers all of Business Basic's features plus others, like notifications sent to your phone, remote arm and disarm, remote access, and customized scheduling. Pulse's Enterprise View plan expands to include interactive video.
\r\nIf you want ADT's top-of-the-line system, Pulse Total Productivity secures and monitors your premises while also allowing you to control lights, appliances, and even the temperature of the building remotely. This is an especially useful feature for restaurants with cold storage or other businesses with appliances that are crucial to the company's operations.
\r\nWhile ADT is first and foremost a security company, we also assessed its access control products, which include door readers or keypad readers that require both physical credentials and a PIN code. Unfortunately, ADT does not offer biometric readers, nor does the system allow for mobile phone access for employees, which means that your employees are limited to using cards and PIN codes to access your facility.
\r\nADT also offers a two-way intercom. There is a single-door, audio-only solution where an employee or visitor can speak with the attendant. One version does not include a release mechanism to buzz in visitors or employees, but a second version does have this feature.
\r\nWith ADT, your business is under 24/7 monitoring, and emergency services are alerted whenever a break-in or fire alarm goes off, which is convenient and cost-effective because you don't have to pay additional employees or hire an outside service to monitor your security.
\r\nOne of the system's most attractive features is its mobile app. With it, you can control nearly every aspect of your business's security from your smartphone. The app allows you to lock and unlock doors remotely, so you can let employees in if they forget their credentials. If you opt for video surveillance, you can tap into a live video feed of your business to check on things. From the app, you can arm or disarm your alarm system, turn the lights on and off, and detect when doors are left open.
\r\nIf you opt for video surveillance, not only can you instantly view the current status of your facility, but you can program the system to record triggered events, such as when employees enter the building, when an alarm goes off or when your motion-sensor lights turn on outside. While ADT's system does allow for anti-passback, it's unfortunate not to have any integration with time and attendance software.
\r\nIf you're weighing the pros and cons of installing an access control system or upgrading your current security system to include access control, you can learn more about ADT's features and its Pulse security packages on the company's website. However, the best way to learn about the type of system you can create and what it will cost is to contact the company directly. ADT will work with you to create a system to suit your needs.
\r\nSupport is available 24/7, and our experience with ADT over the phone and through its live chat function on the website was positive overall. The company also offers onsite training and support videos on the website. The Better Business Bureau has given ADT an A+ rating.
\r\nEditor's note: Looking for an access control system for your business? Fill out the questionnaire below to have our vendor partners contact you about your needs.
"},"url":"https://www.adt.com/business/access-control","docType":"service","title":"ADT","thumbnail":{"path":"https://staging.business.com/images/rev/prod/ce/57694-adt-box.jpg"},"pricing":{"isCapped":false,"isFeatured":false,"primary":true,"selected":"affiliate-widget","widgetId":"10056","widget":{"id":"10056","cta":"Compare Quotes","isExclusive":false},"affiliate":{"cta":"Visit Site","link":"https://www.amazon.com","name":"Amazon"}}}}]}}},"related":{"relatedArticles":[{"title":"More Info, More Problems: Privacy and Security Issues in the Age of Big Data","canonical":"https://www.business.com/articles/privacy-and-security-issues-in-the-age-of-big-data/","slug":"privacy-and-security-issues-in-the-age-of-big-data","thumbnail":"https://www.business.com/images/content/5d0/edf129c658ab0228b458e/1500-0-","dek":"Organizations are predicting key solutions for big data privacy and security in the cloud.","lastModified":"2015-12-16T18:00:00Z","published":"2015-12-16T18:00:00Z","sponsored":false},{"title":"Networking Basics: LAN 101","canonical":"https://www.business.com/articles/local-area-network-wi-fi-networking-basics/","slug":"local-area-network-wi-fi-networking-basics","thumbnail":"https://www.business.com/images/content/5b1/a9c8551ee47a74d8b4580/1500-0-","dek":"Learn about the glue that holds our networks together in this LAN primer.","lastModified":"2018-07-11T14:22:00Z","published":"2018-07-11T14:22:00Z","sponsored":false},{"title":"How to Achieve Success With Small Business Digital Asset Management","canonical":"https://www.business.com/articles/managing-business-assets/","slug":"managing-business-assets","thumbnail":"https://www.business.com/images/content/5dd/4456f7b43741f218b456a/1500-0-","dek":"Digital asset management boosts productivity, improves collaboration, and saves time and money.","lastModified":"2021-02-09T13:30:00Z","published":"2019-11-20T15:00:00Z","sponsored":false},{"title":"Network Hardware & Assembly: LAN 102","canonical":"https://www.business.com/articles/local-area-network-hardware-assembly/","slug":"local-area-network-hardware-assembly","thumbnail":"https://www.business.com/images/content/5b1/a9a3551ee47a94d8b457a/1500-0-","dek":"Scott Mueller explains LAN hardware and assembly.","lastModified":"2018-07-11T14:46:00Z","published":"2018-07-11T14:46:00Z","sponsored":false},{"title":"Prepare for the Worst: How to Create a Cyber Security Incident Response Plan","canonical":"https://www.business.com/articles/prepare-cyber-security-incident-response-plan/","slug":"prepare-cyber-security-incident-response-plan","thumbnail":"https://www.business.com/images/channel/technology.jpg","dek":"Effective CSIR Plan is an essential aspect of organizations in data governance strategy to make aware about current security readiness.","lastModified":"2016-01-13T19:00:00Z","published":"2016-01-13T19:00:00Z","sponsored":false},{"title":"Document Management Systems Explained","canonical":"https://www.business.com/articles/what-is-dms/","slug":"what-is-dms","thumbnail":"https://www.business.com/images/content/5ea/71aca5a215ed3788b457a/1500-0-","dek":"Digitizing your paper records might seem like a gargantuan task, but with document management software, not only is it manageable, but it could vastly improve the way your business operates.","lastModified":"2020-11-10T17:26:00Z","published":"2020-04-28T12:10:00Z","sponsored":false},{"title":"Remote PC Security – Is It Safe?","canonical":"https://www.business.com/articles/is-remote-pc-safe/","slug":"is-remote-pc-safe","thumbnail":"https://www.business.com/images/content/5ee/b50685a215e2f498b4569/1500-0-","dek":"Accessing a work computer over the internet is a common way to work from home with little disruption. 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