Did you know that 57% of businesses who have suffered a cyberattack report their breaches could have been prevented by installing an available patch?
Your business depends on the quality of your network and server to keep your enterprise going. So, when your network needs patching, you need to know how to get your server patched fast.
While you can hire outsourced tech support companies to have either one patched for you, it’s always helpful to know how the process works. This way, you can provide your workers with the tools and knowledge they need.
Read on for some help on knowing when you need to patch a server or network. Be ready to automate the server patching process with some automation.
What You’ll Need
When you’re looking for a server patch for your server, there are three things you’ll need.
First, a text editor like Notepad or TextEdit: You’ll need a text editor to open the necessary files and make changes.
Second, an FTP client like FileZilla or WinSCP: You’ll need an FTP client to connect to your server so you can make changes.
Third, your server’s IP address: You’ll need this so you can connect to your server in the first place.
Step-By-Step Guide
Now that you have everything you need, let’s look at how to patch a server to avoid vulnerability. Let’s look at this now:
1. SSH Into Your Server
The first step is to open up a terminal and Secure Shell Protocol (SSH) into your server. You’ll need your server’s IP address for this.
2. Update Your Server
Once you’re logged in, the next thing you’ll want to do is update your server. To do that, conduct the ensuing command:
sudo apt-get update
3. Upgrade Your Server
After you update your server, the next thing you’ll want to do is upgrade it. To do that, run the following command:
sudo apt-get upgrade
4. Reboot Your Server
Once you upgrade your server, you’ll want to do is reboot it. To accomplish that, execute the subsequent command:
sudo reboot
5. Check Your Server’s Status
After your server is rebooted, the next thing you want to do is check its status. To do that, run the following command:
sudo systemctl status ssh
If everything is working properly, you’ll see a message that says “active (running).”
Patching a Server Basics
Now that you know how to patch a server, it’s time to learn the basics of this process. Let’s dive in:
1. Identify the Problem
When trying to identify a problem, it is important to look at all available data. This can include error messages, logs, or other system data. By looking at this information, it may be possible to identify the root cause of the problem.
Once the problem has been identified, it can then be addressed. This may involve changing a setting, installing a patch, or taking other corrective actions.
By taking the time to identify the problem, it is possible to resolve it and prevent it from happening again in the future.
2. Download the Patch
Once you’ve identified the problem, the next step is to download the patch. Patches are usually available from the vendor or developer’s website.
Keep in mind that you’ll need to know which version of the software you’re using to choose the correct patch. In some cases, you may also need to know which operating system you’re using.
Once you have the patch, follow the instructions carefully to apply it correctly. In most cases, you’ll simply need to run the patch file and follow any prompts.
3. Install the Patch
The next step after downloading the patch is to install it. You can do this by using a variety of methods, depending on the type of patch. One common method is to use a patch management system.
This system will automatically do a computer network installation of the patches on the server. Another method is to manually install the patches. This requires more work, but you can do it if you don’t have a patch management system.
Whichever method you choose, make sure that you follow the instructions carefully to ensure that the patch is installed correctly.
4. Reboot the Server
Once the patch is installed, the next step is to reboot the server. This will ensure that the changes take effect and that the server is running smoothly.
If you have any concerns about the patch or the server, be sure to consult with your in-house or outsourced IT support company before proceeding.
Rebooting the server should only take a few minutes, but it is important to make sure that everything is running smoothly before proceeding.
5. Test the Server
After the server is rebooted, the next step is to test it. This can be done by running a variety of tests or by using a monitoring tool.
Tips and Tricks
There are a few tips and tricks to help you with patching a server. Let’s look at them now:
1. Use Automation
One of the best ways to make patching a server easier is to use automation. There are a variety of tools available that can help with this.
2. Keep Your Software Up-To-Date
Another way to make patching a server easier is to keep your software up-to-date. This can be done by setting up automatic updates.
3. Use a Backup
Another way to make patching a server easier is to use a backup. This way, if something goes wrong, you can restore your system to a previous state.
4. Test
Another way to make patching a server easier is to test. This can be done by running a variety of tests or by using a monitoring tool.
5. Follow Best Practices
Finally, one of the best ways to make the server patching process easier is to follow best practices. This includes things like keeping your system up-to-date and using automation.
Patch a Server With Managed IT Services
Managing a server environment can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By following the steps in this server patching guide and reaching out to us for help, you can keep your systems running.
If you have more IT issues, have you thought about outsourcing your IT departments to a Los Angeles managed IT services company?
If so, contact us to find out how our professionals can help!
