What is Patch Management?
Patch management is the regular updating and patching of Operating Systems and applications. Keeping software up to date is important to protect users and their data.
How are Patches Delivered?
Computers at Carleton are automatically patched in a number of ways:
1) Windows Software Update Service (WSUS)
Windows computers are configured to receive Microsoft updates from the WSUS server on campus. This server gets Windows operating system patches, as well as patches for Internet Explorer, Office, and other Windows applications from Microsoft. Windows computers check for new updates at least once a day, and they usually find new updates to apply about twice a month, soon after the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month.
2) McAfee VirusScan
McAfee VirusScan software is set to automatically retrieve updates at least once a day, usually over the noon hour. Computers running Mac OS X get their updates from the McAfee servers. Windows computers check for updates and policies from the Carleton McAfee ePO server every 10 minutes.
3) KBOX Patch Management
The KBOX is only for Carleton-owned computers.
You must be ON CAMPUS to log into the KBOX, as described below.
Please contact the ITS HelpDesk if you would like help using the KBOX.
You can reach them at x 5999 or by email at: helpdesk@carleton.edu
The KBOX receives patches from Lumension , a security company. These patches are then delivered to campus computers. Patches in the KBOX are security related patches only. Feature related patches and upgrades are not available from KBOX patch management. KBOX Patch Management is covered in detail here.
Manual Updates Within Applications
Most applications on campus computers have automatic update checking turned off. Users with the proper privileges can update their software manually, or re-enable automatic update checking. The instructions for doing this vary by application; look for the application article here in Carlpedia, or contact the ITS HelpDesk (x5999).
What About Exceptions?
If there is a technical reason that your software cannot be updated, or a custom schedule is needed, contact ITS HelpDesk (x5999).