The Automation Suite

Server Management & Server Automation

Network Management & Network Automation

Unified IT Asset Management

Awards

Patch Management to Ensure Patch Compliance

Opsware Server Management System has patch management capabilities address the difficulty and laborious task of keeping systems patched in a safe and timely manner. Because patch management is an integrated part of the Opsware Server Management System, administrators realize additional benefits as compared to stand-alone patch management tools. Opsware patch management leverages the Opsware System's innovative building-block approach that provide the following unique capabilities and benefits:

Understands latest system state and configurations. Opsware's change engine automatically creates and updates two lists when applying patches: the list of patches that users indicate should be installed on a server, and the list of patches that is actually installed on a server. By maintaining this detailed model of the server's current state, Opsware helps keep different IT groups managing the same server in sync and ensures that all groups making server changes are working with the same knowledge of the current state of the environment. Using this approach, Opsware enables multiple groups to manage the same server without stepping over each other's changes. An accurate blueprint of the software installed on a server, granular role-based access control, a unified audit trial, and the ability to rollback changes all contribute to Opsware's unmatched ability to coordinate the activities of many different administrators managing the same server.

Integration with other automation functions. The patch management functionality is fully integrated into the full suite of Opsware functions. For example, patches uploaded and tested one systems administrator are stored in the System of Record and can be easily included in standard OS provisioning templates by a different administrator. Seamless integration leads to cost savings and higher quality.

Target the "right" servers to patch by leveraging the Opsware blueprint. Opsware's model, a single comprehensive record of the IT environment, enables systems administrators to target the appropriate servers for patches by maintaining a consistent understanding of server state and function, across all platforms and software applications. For example, an administrator can target a patch for all HP-UX servers for the Finance department that are being used for staging the Oracle Financials application. Precise targeting greatly reduces the risk of inadvertent patching and potential downtime.

Deep understanding of native patch formats and structure. Systems administrators upload patches directly into the Opsware System, which understands and respects the structure of those patches in their native forms. It treats Solaris patch clusters, for example, differently from Windows Hotfixes or AIX APARs. Native patch support greatly increases both the flexibility and reliability of patch installation.