Update security software regularly.

Keep Security Tools Updated: Your Digital Armour

Security tools are powerful, but only if they’re up to date.  Antivirus, endpoint detection and response (EDR), firewalls, and monitoring platforms all rely on the latest definitions, rules, and patches to stop evolving threats.  Outdated tools can miss new attacks, or worse, become entry points themselves.  For SMBs, staying updated means staying ahead of attackers rather than constantly chasing them.

Best Practices for Maintaining Security Tools:

1. Automate Updates Where Possible

   • Enable auto-updates for antivirus signatures and EDR agents.

   • Use centralised management consoles to push updates across all devices.

2. Verify Manually & Regularly

   • Schedule monthly manual checks to confirm updates are applied.

   • Audit firewalls, IDS/IPS, and monitoring tools for outdated rules or configs.

3. Update Threat Intelligence Feeds

   • Ensure firewalls and monitoring platforms consume the latest feeds.

   • Subscribe to vendor-specific and government feeds (NCSC, CISA).

4. Don’t Forget Firmware & Appliances

   • Update firewalls, routers, and security appliances quarterly.

   • Apply hotfixes promptly for critical vulnerabilities.

5. Test After Updating

   • Run a scan or simulated attack to confirm tools are still functioning.

   • Document any issues and adjust configuration if needed.

6. Keep Licenses & Support Active

   • Renew subscriptions to maintain update access.

   • Avoid unsupported versions, migrate before end-of-life.

7. Monitor for Update Failures

   • Configure alerts if updates fail or devices fall behind.

   • Spot-check remote and hybrid worker endpoints.

8. Integrate Updates Into Your Security Calendar

   • Build updates into your quarterly security review.

   • Tie tool updates into wider patch and vulnerability management cycles.

Remember: Security tools are like armour, without upgrades, cracks appear and protection weakens. Updated tools don’t just block today’s threats, they prepare you for tomorrow’s.