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Cloud-Based Patch Management Solution: Benefits and Top Tools

5 Best Cloud-Based Patch Management Solution Tools in 2025: 1. Level 2. Action1 3. Automox 4. NinjaOne 5. Datto RMM

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Thursday, March 6, 2025

Cloud-Based Patch Management Solution: Benefits and Top Tools

Whether you're a managed service provider (MSP) or you oversee an internal IT team, you need to keep devices and systems up to date. Failing to do so can expose your technical environment to security risks, compliance failures, and operational downtime.

However, the traditional patch management process can be time-consuming, especially if you manage hundreds of devices across different locations.

A cloud-based patch management solution helps by automatically identifying missing patches and deploying the necessary updates.

This article covers the main benefits of cloud patch management software. You'll also learn about the best tools you can use to simplify the process.

What is a Cloud-Based Patch Management Solution?

A cloud-based patch management solution is a digital tool that can instantly deploy patches, also known as software updates, across different devices.

Instead of relying on on-premise servers, it uses cloud infrastructure to detect, download, and apply patches remotely. This reduces the need for on-site visits, which can save time and manual effort.

A cloud patch manager allows IT teams and MSPs to monitor patch status, schedule updates, and enforce security policies from a single dashboard. It is useful for businesses managing multiple clients or overseeing distributed cloud networks.

Benefits of Using a Cloud Patch Management Solution

Using a cloud-based patch manager can benefit your IT operations in several ways. Here are the advantages of cloud patch management tools:

Simplify the Patching Process

A cloud-based system automates the entire patch management process, from detection to deployment. This reduces the need to check each device manually, which can complicate workflows.

Instead, the software automatically scans your entire IT environment for missing patches. Then, it downloads the correct software updates and applies them to different endpoints.

Cloud patch management software also offers a centralized dashboard where you can track device statuses. This makes it easy to see which devices are up to date and which need attention.

Reduce IT Workload

Manual patching takes hours, especially for large networks that comprise thousands of devices. It is also prone to errors, which can lead to security and compliance risks.

A cloud-based patch management system reduces manual oversight. It allows you to schedule patch deployments in advance and apply updates to multiple client environments at once.

Automated patch management can significantly reduce workload and improve IT efficiency. It allows you to focus on business-critical tasks rather than dealing with administrative burdens.

Strengthen Cybersecurity

Cybercriminals often exploit unpatched software to install malware and steal sensitive data.

Fortunately, cloud-based patch management solutions apply security patches as soon as vendors release them. They reduce the window of exposure and protect sensitive systems from threats.

Improve System Stability

Outdated systems are more than security risks. They can also cause system crashes, slow performance, and compatibility issues.

Cloud-based patching software prevents these problems and guarantees stability by keeping all devices updated.

It also allows you to schedule and deploy patches during off-peak hours to avoid interrupting end users with their work.

It can even test updates before full deployment. This ensures that patches are compatible with your system and will not cause disruptions.

Maintain Compliance

If you manage IT systems for healthcare organizations, government agencies, or educational institutions, you should comply with strict data privacy laws. Non-compliance can lead to regulatory fines, lost business, and reputational damage.

A cloud-based patch management solution helps you meet compliance requirements. It can enforce consistent update policies and deploy security patches to keep systems confidential.

It also generates patch compliance reports that can prove your adherence to privacy and security standards.

Scale IT Operations Efficiently

As your business grows, managing and patching more devices becomes challenging.

A cloud-based patch management tool addresses this difficulty by scaling to meet your needs. Whether you have 50 or 5,000 endpoints, the system handles updates without additional hardware.

It also allows you to manage multiple clients from a single interface. This improves service delivery and helps you build stronger relationships with customers.

5 Best Cloud Patch Management Software

Here are the leading cloud patch management tools you can use:

1. Level

Level cloud-based patch management solution

Level is a modern remote monitoring and management (RMM) platform that offers a cloud-based patch management solution. It allows you to update numerous devices at once, which can save time and reduce workload.

Level also includes scheduling tools that automatically patch Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. At the same time, it can delay the installation of patches to ensure full compatibility and maintain system stability.

This RMM business solution even provides real-time dashboards to track patch statuses. If updates fail, it can instantly send notifications to keep your network secure at all times.

On top of its reliable patching tools, Level provides secure remote access to different endpoints, servers, and IoT gadgets. It can monitor device health, connection status, and service availability, among other key metrics.

Pros: Level has a user-friendly patching solution that is accessible from any browser on any device. This simplifies patch management and elevates IT efficiency. Plus, it is a cost-effective platform that charges users $2 per endpoint every month.

Book a demo to learn more about Level's capabilities.

2. Action1

Action1
Source: Action1.com

Action1 is a cloud-native patch management solution that automates the entire software update process. It provides real-time detection of missing patches to keep endpoints secure and compliant.

The platform supports remote patching without requiring a VPN, which is useful for distributed workforces.

It can also patch third-party apps on top of operating systems. It allows you to choose your patching schedule and prioritize updates based on severity, vendor, or patch type.

Plus, Action1 offers bandwidth-efficient peer-to-peer distribution. This reduces network load during patch deployments and maintains business continuity.

Pros: Action1 has advanced automated patch management features. It can instantly scan networks for missing patches, deploy the correct updates, and secure the connection without slowing down performance.

Cons: Action1 does not patch Linux operating systems. It also lacks other features beyond patch management, such as remote monitoring, scripting, and asset inventory. It may not be suitable for IT teams or MSPs seeking an all-in-one platform.

3. Automox

Automox
Source: Automox.com

Automox offers an automated patch management solution hosted over the cloud. It can deploy software updates across Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems.

Automox also includes a malware detection platform. It automatically scans third-party software packages to ensure patch safety and integrity.

Additionally, it provides real-time visibility into patch statuses. This enables your IT team to proactively identify and address security vulnerabilities.

Automox can even enforce any scriptable action, such as software deployment or policy configuration. It supports PowerShell and Bash languages for automated workflows.

Pros: Automox uses policy-driven patching and integrated malware detection tools to secure endpoints automatically.

Cons: The platform is not intuitive to use, which may require significant training time. It also suffers from slow performance and disconnection issues.

4. NinjaOne

NinjaOne
Source: NinjaOne.com

NinjaOne is known for its extensive RMM platform that caters to MSPs and IT teams. However, it also has a cloud-based patching solution that keeps endpoints secure and compliant.

It can automate patch deployments across different operating systems and third-party apps. This reduces manual intervention and strengthens a company's security posture.

NinjaOne also offers a centralized dashboard to monitor patch compliance and system vulnerabilities in real time.

Plus, the platform generates detailed patch management reports. These help identify security risks, such as pending or failed updates, and address problems quickly.

Pros: In addition to software patching, NinjaOne includes proactive remote monitoring, endpoint management, documentation, and data backup capabilities. This feature-rich platform is useful for MSPs and IT teams handling complex infrastructures.

Cons: Due to its extensive capabilities, NinjaOne can be difficult to set up and use. It also has steep pricing, which is not ideal for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs).

5. Datto RMM

Datto RMM
Source: Datto.com

Datto RMM is a cloud-based remote monitoring platform that automates patch deployment for Windows devices. It can also support Mac endpoints, but it requires the prior installation of a ComStore component.

Datto RMM offers customizable patch policies, allowing IT teams to schedule updates and control installations to minimize disruptions.

The platform even provides real-time monitoring and detailed reporting. This makes it easier to track patch compliance and address vulnerabilities promptly.

Pros: Datto's patch management solution is highly flexible. It allows users to customize patching policies, dashboards, and reports.

Cons: Datto RMM does not support Linux patching. The platform also has a steep learning curve, which makes it difficult for IT teams to learn and maximize its features.

Tips for Choosing the Right Patch Management Solution

The best patching solutions aren't necessarily the right tools for your IT needs. It's important to consider several factors before finalizing your purchasing decision.

Check Multi-OS and Third-Party Software Support

Choose patch management software that supports the operating systems and third-party apps you use.

For example, if your infrastructure primarily runs on Windows servers, using Datto RMM might be enough.

However, if you also manage Mac and Linux OS in addition to third-party software, you should invest in a patching solution that supports multiple operating systems and various software. Level and NinjaOne are the leading options to consider.

Evaluate Automation Tools

Manual patching wastes time and increases the risk of human error. It's important to select a patch management solution with built-in automation tools.

Check if the software can automatically scan for missing patches and deploy the necessary updates on schedule.

You should also consider scripting capabilities. These allow you to tailor patching policies to your specific needs and apply updates to unpopular apps.

Assess Security and Compliance Features

Your patch management tool should provide detailed audit logs, patch reports, and compliance tracking.

The ability to enforce strict security policies, like data encryption and multi-factor authentication (MFA), is also a must-have. This helps you keep endpoints secure and compliant with standards.

Review Pricing

Costs vary between software vendors. Some charge per device, while others use a flat-rate or tiered pricing model.

You should consider your budget and growth plans. Choose a scalable patch management solution with transparent pricing to avoid unnecessary features that drive up costs.

Research Online Reviews

Before committing to a cloud-based patching solution, check user reviews, case studies, and industry ratings. Look specifically for feedback from IT professionals and MSPs in the same industry as your company.

Focus on ease of use, performance reliability, and the quality of vendor support. Make sure to weigh both positive and negative reviews to help you choose the right platform.

Automate Patch Management with Level

Level automates patch management

Managing patches across diverse systems can be complex and time-consuming. Level simplifies this process with its cross-platform patch management solution.

It can automatically schedule and apply updates to Windows, macOS, and Linux devices. It also supports third-party patching to keep endpoints secure and up-to-date.

Level also sends real-time notifications when updates fail to help you close security gaps before they become serious.

Plus, Level provides a suite of advanced tools that can elevate IT efficiency and expand your service offerings. Whether you want to control multiple devices, patch endpoints, or track assets, Level has the technology to make it happen.

Book a demo or try Level free for 14 days right now!

FAQs About Cloud-Based Patch Management Solution

What is cloud patch management?

Cloud patch management involves deploying and managing software updates remotely through a cloud-based platform. It makes sure that operating systems and third-party apps receive security patches and performance updates on time.

What is the best patch management software?

The best patch management software depends on your business size, IT infrastructure, and security needs. Popular choices include Level, Action1, Automox, NinjaOne, and Datto RMM. Make sure to evaluate each platform's automation tools, security protocols, compliance features, and pricing.

Does Microsoft have a patch management tool?

Yes, Microsoft Intune and Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) are commonly used for patching Windows devices. However, these tools mainly focus on Microsoft products. Businesses needing multi-OS and third-party application patching often use dedicated cloud-based solutions.

What is patch management in AWS?

AWS patch management refers to the Amazon Web Services Systems Manager (SSM). It automates patching for AWS cloud instances and on-premise servers to improve security and compliance.

Level: Simplify IT Management

At Level, we understand the modern challenges faced by IT professionals. That's why we've crafted a robust, browser-based Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) platform that's as flexible as it is secure. Whether your team operates on Windows, Mac, or Linux, Level equips you with the tools to manage, monitor, and control your company's devices seamlessly from anywhere.

Ready to revolutionize how your IT team works? Experience the power of managing a thousand devices as effortlessly as one. Start with Level today—sign up for a free trial or book a demo to see Level in action.