Microsoft Windows Server Update Services vs Vicarius vRx comparison

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) is a patch management tool that simplifies the administrator’s task of deploying the latest Microsoft updates. Administrators use WSUS to manage the distribution of updates released through Microsoft Update to computers in their network.

WSUS has features you can use to manage and distribute updates from a management console. The WSUS server can also be a source of updates to other servers within the organization, acting as an upstream server.

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services Use Cases

The four main use cases that WSUS adds value to businesses are:

• Centralizes update management.
• Automates update management.
• Performs general patch management to ensure compliance and protect against vulnerabilities.
• Downloads all endpoint updates from data centers to a central location and then distribute them across the organization’s network.

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services Features

This built-in server includes the following features:

• Includes Windows PowerShell cmdlets.
• Features client and server separation, which means you can deliver versions of the Windows Update Agent (WUA) separately from WSUS.
• Automatic download of updates.
• Deploy a targeted download of updates to a specific group of computers.
• Multiple language support.
• Advanced reporting capabilities.
• Centralized management of network resources.

Requirements

In order to be able to use WSUS to manage and deploy updates, it is important to use a supported WSUS version, such as:

• WSUS 10.0.14393
• WSUS 10.0.17763
• WSUS 6.2 and 6.3 with installed KB 3095113 and KB 3159706

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services Benefits

• Stable.
• Ensures servers are always patched and prevents vulnerabilities.
• Works great for internal updating.
• Enforces automated updates and patching for applications.
• Because the solution is used in the cloud, clients are always using the latest version.
• Highly scalable and configurable regardless of the organization’s layout.

Different Types of WSUS Deployments

• Simple WSUS deployment: A server inside the corporate firewall serves clients via a private intranet. The WSUS server downloads updates by connecting to Microsoft Update. Using this model, you can configure multiple WSUS servers with a parent WSUS server.
  
  
• Computer groups: You can use computer groups to deliver updates to specific computers. There are two basic computer groups: All Computers or Unassigned Computers. When a client first contacts the WSUS server, it is added to both. You can then create a group from the Unassigned Computers group to the new group.
  
  
• WSUS server hierarchies: The flexibility of WSUS enables the creation of complex hierarchies of servers. To do this, you need only a single WSUS server connected to Microsoft Update. This will serve as an “upstream server,” and the connected servers as “downstream servers.”
  
  
  • You can link WSUS servers in two modes: autonomous or replica. In the autonomous mode, the upstream server shares the updates with the downstream servers but doesn’t update status or group information.
    
    
  • The upstream server shares updates, status, and group information in replica mode. You cannot administer replica servers apart from the upstream WSUS server.

Vicarius vRx supports managed service providers and partners with compliance packages, vulnerability management, and patching for PCI, HIPAA, and cybersecurity needs, focusing on third-party and OS patching, especially on Microsoft Windows.

Vicarius vRx automates patching, virtualized patching, and severity prioritization through its cloud-based, agent-based approach which enhances consistency and flexibility. It includes patchless protection to block malware in unpatched software and features simplified dashboards for integrated vulnerability discovery and remediation. Users appreciate the user-friendly scripting engine, efficient third-party software patching, and real-time cybersecurity updates. Community support and customizable deployment options further add value. However, users find name changes and login difficulties confusing and report tediousness when configuring multiple reports. Desired improvements include virtual environment for patch testing, enhanced network device vulnerability scans, and better Microsoft Endpoint Manager interactions.

• Automated patching: Streamlines the process of patching applications and operating systems.
• Virtualized patching: Enables patching in a virtual environment to prevent disruptions.
• Severity prioritization: Helps prioritize vulnerabilities to address the most critical issues first.
• Patchless protection: Blocks malware in software that hasn't been patched yet.
• User-friendly scripting engine: Simplifies the creation and execution of scripts for automation.
• Integrated vulnerability discovery: Combines detection and remediation in a single dashboard.
• Real-time updates: Provides immediate cybersecurity updates and notifications.
• Community support: Offers robust support from the user community.
• Customizable deployment options: Allows tailoring to fit specific requirements.

• Time-saving: Reduces the time required for software patching and management.
• Vulnerability reduction: Decreases the number of vulnerabilities through automated processes.
• Enhanced security: Provides patchless protection and real-time updates to improve security postures.
• Flexibility: The cloud-based, agent-based approach adapts to various environments and needs.
• Simplified management: User-friendly interfaces and streamlined processes offer easier administration.
• Improved compliance: Helps meet PCI, HIPAA, and cybersecurity regulatory requirements.

Among managed service providers, Vicarius vRx is implemented for updating systems, showing capabilities to customers in lab environments, and securing endpoints through agent-based patching. These providers use vRx to efficiently manage third-party software patching and to maintain cybersecurity standards across industries.