The aim of patch management is to?

The aim of patch management is fundamentally about acquiring and installing software updates to improve security. This process helps ensure that all software applications are updated to their latest versions, which typically include fixes for vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers. By keeping software up to date, organizations can protect their systems from known security flaws, thereby reducing the risk of breaches and ensuring the integrity of their data and systems.

Regularly applying patches and updates also helps maintain compliance with industry regulations and standards that require organizations to protect sensitive information. The proactive management of patches is an essential component of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy, as it addresses vulnerabilities that could otherwise be exploited by malicious actors.

The other options, while important in their own contexts, do not directly relate to the primary goal of patch management. Identifying employee needs pertains to human resources and organizational support, enhancing physical security measures focuses on protecting the physical assets of an organization, and reducing the number of software applications does not specifically address the necessity of updating existing applications for security reasons.