System Requirements Check: Ensure the system meets the required specifications (Windows Server, SQL Server, etc.).
Software Dependencies: Verify the installation of prerequisite software and any necessary components like Windows Server Update Services (WSUS).
Installation
Download the Software: Acquire the Patch Manager installation files from the SolarWinds website.
Install the Application: Follow the installation wizard, typically configuring database settings for SQL Server and selecting relevant options for WSUS.
Configuration
Update Catalog Sync: Configure synchronization settings for Microsoft update catalogs to import necessary patches.
Policy Configuration: Set up patch deployment policies tailored to various systems and applications within the network.
Testing
Pilot Deployment: Implement test deployments in a controlled environment to ensure everything functions as expected before widespread rollout.
Deployment
Full Rollout: Progress to deploying patches across the organization once testing is complete, monitoring for issues.
Ongoing Management
Monitoring: Regularly check for new patches and manage deployments. Utilize dashboards and reporting features for oversight.
Customisation
Custom Patch Policies: Tailor deployment timelines and settings according to departmental requirements.
Third-party Software Support: Ability to manage updates for third-party applications using custom update packages.
User Notifications: Configure user communication regarding upcoming patches and maintenance windows.
Integration Capabilities: Connect with other SolarWinds products (such as Network Performance Monitor) for better coordinated management.
Report Customization: Create custom reports to meet organizational reporting standards.
Additional Costs
Setup Fees: Initial setup fees can vary but are often included in the purchase price or covered by standard licenses.
Maintenance Fees: Usually included in the subscription model but could also involve a percentage of the license cost annually for traditional licenses.
Support Charges: Basic support is often part of the license; however, enhanced support plans may incur additional costs. Pricing varies with service level agreements (SLAs).
Training
Online Documentation and Knowledge Base: Extensive resources detailing features, setup, and troubleshooting.
Video Tutorials: Instructional videos that cover key functionalities and best practices.
Webinars: Regularly scheduled webinars focused on product features and user queries.
Community Forums: Active community support where users can ask questions and share experiences.
Technical Support: Available through email and phone, details vary based on the support plan chosen and generally include response time commitments.
Security Measures
Data Encryption: Communications between the Patch Manager and systems are encrypted.
Access Control: Role-based access controls to manage user permissions and secure sensitive information.
Audit Logging: Comprehensive logging of user activities and changes to monitor for unauthorized access and actions.
Regular Updates: Software is continuously updated to address vulnerabilities and enhance security.
Updates
Update Frequency:
SolarWinds Patch Manager releases updates regularly, often aligned with Microsoft's monthly Patch Tuesday schedule. This means most updates are issued once a month but may also include additional updates and hotfixes as needed.
Management of Updates:
Automated Updates: Administrators can set up automated update processes for both Microsoft and third-party applications.
Customization: Users have the ability to control which patches are deployed and when, allowing for testing and scheduling based on organizational needs.
Reporting: Dashboards and reports are provided to track the status of updates, patch compliance, and deployment success.
Data Ownership and Portability
Data Ownership:
SolarWinds typically maintains that users have ownership over their data. The organization using Patch Manager retains control of its data, including patch deployment configurations, logs, and any other generated reports.
Data Portability:
Users can export reports and data as needed from the Patch Manager interface. While SolarWinds permits data export, specifics on data formats and limitations may depend on the particular version or setup. Users are advised to review their license agreement for exact terms regarding data retention and portability.
Scaling Up / Down
Scaling Up:
License Flexibility: Organizations can easily add more licenses as they grow or acquire additional systems. Typically, this requires purchasing additional licenses based on the number of endpoints or servers needing management.
Scaling Down:
License Reduction Policies: Reducing the number of licenses may also be accommodated, though it often involves specific procedures outlined in the contract. Users should consult their SolarWinds account representative for specific terms related to downgrading.
The terms & conditions for contract renewal and cancellation
Contract Renewal:
Automatic Renewal: Most SolarWinds contracts are set to auto-renew unless stated otherwise. Users are typically notified prior to the renewal date.
Terms and Options: Renewal terms are usually set for one or more years and may reflect any updated pricing or terms introduced before renewal.
Cancellation:
Notice Period: Organizations usually need to provide a written notice (often 30 days) prior to the contract expiration date if they choose not to renew.
Refund Policies: Refund policies for unused periods may apply, but specifics can vary widely depending on the agreement and circumstances.
Reinstatement Options: Some contracts may allow for reinstatement of services after cancellation, typically at the current rates.
Compliance
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): Regulations related to data protection and privacy for individuals within the EU.
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA): For users in the healthcare industry, ensuring compliance with patient data security standards.
Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA): Applicable for federal agencies, ensuring that they meet prescribed security standards.
Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS): For organizations handling card payment data, ensuring compliance with security measures.
ISO/IEC 27001: An international standard focused on managing information security.
