Cross-Platform Patching Automation

Problem Overview

Managing patches across different operating systems can feel like juggling three separate processes at once. Native tools often have limited scheduling flexibility, and third-party patching adds another layer of complexity—especially on Windows and Linux. Instead of relying on scripts, multiple dashboards, or advanced configuration tools, this single Automation handles Windows OS and third-party updates, macOS updates, and Linux OS and third-party updates in one streamlined workflow. The result? A simpler, more unified patch management process that saves time and reduces risk.

Description

Cross-Platform Patch Automation applies updates to all major operating systems—Windows, macOS, and Linux—using Level’s built-in actions. It installs Windows OS patches, upgrades key third-party Windows apps via Winget, updates macOS through native Apple mechanisms, and handles Linux distributions (via apt or yum) for both OS and select third-party packages. The Automation can run on a predefined schedule or be triggered on demand. If a patch fails, it will automatically retry, and if it fails again, you’ll get an alert specific to that platform (Windows, macOS, or Linux). This ensures you’re never caught off guard by unpatched endpoints.

Preview

Use Cases

• Centralized Multi-OS Patching: Save time by handling Windows, macOS, and Linux updates in one place.
• Streamlined Third-Party Updates: Keep critical applications (e.g., Chrome, Zoom, Docker, etc.) updated without separate tools.
• Reduced Manual Work: Replace manual steps, SSH sessions, or separate processes for each OS.
• Scheduled or On-Demand: Set a routine maintenance window or run the patch cycle whenever needed.
• Alert-Driven Oversight: Receive immediate alerts for patch failures that persist after a retry.

Recommendations

• Set Up Scheduling: Review your existing maintenance windows and decide on a weekly or monthly update schedule that minimizes user disruption.
• Adjust Patch Categories: After importing, specify which Updates Categories you want to include or exclude for better control.
• Delay for Stability: Use the delay feature to ensure new OS patches are tested before mass deployment.
• Start Small: Implement the Automation on a test group of endpoints first, then expand to your broader environment after confirming success.
• Monitor Alerts: Keep an eye on notifications for any patch failures—so you can address issues promptly.

FAQ

• Do I need coding or scripting skills?
  ‍No. This Automation runs on Level’s built-in actions, so you won’t have to write or manage scripts.

• Which OS versions are supported?
  ‍Windows: Windows 8.1 and Server 2012 R2 or later.macOS: 10.13 (High Sierra) or newer.Linux: Debian/Ubuntu (apt) and RHEL/CentOS/Fedora (yum).

• Does it include third-party app updates for all OS?
  Windows: Yes, via Winget (e.g., Zoom, Chrome, Firefox, etc.).
  macOS: Currently limited to Apple software updates.
  Linux: Yes, for commonly used packages that apt or yum can manage.

• How are reboots managed?
  The Automation doesn’t initiate reboots. Use our “Ask User to Reboot” Automation or your own procedure to handle restarts.

• What if an update fails to install?
  The Automation retries multiple times. If all attempts fail, you’ll receive an alert specific to Windows, macOS, or Linux, so you can troubleshoot effectively.