Patch Management & Updates
How to scope patch management and update services
Patch management is one of the most critical yet undervalued IT services, requiring careful balance between security, stability, and business operations. You need to provide comprehensive patch management that keeps systems secure without disrupting business productivity.
The line item below shows you how to structure patch management proposals with clear update schedules and testing procedures. It demonstrates how to break down patch management into manageable components that help clients understand the importance of staying current with security updates.
Sample Line Item
Breaking Down Patch Management Scoping
Patch management services need to balance security requirements with business stability. The key is providing timely security updates while minimizing the risk of business disruption through proper testing and scheduling.
Examples of What to Include
Here are the core components of effective patch management services. These elements work together to provide comprehensive security updates that keep systems protected while maintaining business operations.
Automated Patch Deployment: Automated deployment of critical security patches and updates with scheduling to minimize business disruption and ensure timely protection.
Pre-deployment Testing: Testing of patches in a controlled environment before deployment to identify potential conflicts or issues that could affect operations.
Patch Reporting & Documentation: Detailed reporting on all patches applied, including security improvements and any issues encountered during deployment.
Potential Upsells and Add-ons
Here are enhanced patch management services that can significantly improve security and reduce deployment risks. These upsells help clients get better protection and peace of mind while increasing your monthly recurring revenue.
Extended Testing & Validation
$200/monthComprehensive testing with business application validation
Extended testing significantly reduces the risk of patch-related business disruption by validating patches against actual business applications and workflows.
Emergency Patch Deployment
$150/month24/7 emergency patching for critical vulnerabilities
Emergency patching ensures critical zero-day vulnerabilities are addressed immediately, providing protection against the latest security threats.
Automated Rollback & Recovery
$100/monthSystem snapshots with one-click rollback capability
Rollback protection provides a safety net for patch deployment, allowing quick recovery if patches cause unexpected issues or conflicts.
Limitations to Consider
These boundaries help prevent scope creep and clarify what's outside the core patch management scope.
No custom application updates: System patches only, custom application updates require separate coordination with vendors.
No hardware firmware updates: Software patches only, firmware updates require separate planning and approval.
No major version upgrades: Security patches and minor updates only, major software upgrades require separate project scope.
Standard maintenance windows: Patches deployed during agreed maintenance windows, emergency patching available as add-on.
Proactive patch management that keeps systems secure
Patch management is essential for maintaining system security and preventing cyber attacks. By providing comprehensive patch management with proper testing and scheduling, you create valuable recurring revenue while ensuring your clients' systems stay protected against the latest threats.
Use this line item as your foundation for scoping, pricing, and selling patch management services. The monthly model ensures ongoing protection while providing predictable revenue and keeping systems current with security updates.
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