Quick Overview
- 1#1: Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager - Enterprise-grade solution for deploying and managing patches across Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints with comprehensive compliance reporting.
- 2#2: HCL BigFix - Real-time patch management platform that automates vulnerability remediation and software deployment across diverse IT environments.
- 3#3: Tanium - High-speed endpoint management platform enabling instant patch deployment and visibility at scale for large enterprises.
- 4#4: Ivanti Endpoint Manager - Unified endpoint management tool with advanced patch deployment capabilities for multi-platform environments including third-party apps.
- 5#5: SolarWinds Patch Manager - Integrated patch management for Windows and third-party software with automated deployment, testing, and WSUS integration.
- 6#6: ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus - Affordable patch automation solution supporting over 850 third-party apps across Windows, macOS, and Linux with automated workflows.
- 7#7: Automox - Cloud-native platform for automated patching of servers, laptops, and workstations across multiple OS without on-premises infrastructure.
- 8#8: NinjaOne - RMM platform with built-in patch management for automated deployment, approvals, and reporting in MSP and SMB environments.
- 9#9: PDQ Deploy - Windows-focused deployment tool for rapid patch and software distribution with custom scripting and scheduling.
- 10#10: Kaseya VSA - All-in-one IT management suite featuring automated patch deployment for Windows and third-party applications in remote environments.
We prioritized tools based on features like multi-platform support, automation efficiency, real-time visibility, user-friendliness, and overall value, ensuring they deliver reliable performance across diverse IT landscapes and organizational scales.
Comparison Table
In today's fast-paced IT environment, efficient patch deployment is essential for safeguarding systems and minimizing vulnerabilities, and selecting the right software requires careful evaluation. This comparison table examines leading tools—such as Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager, HCL BigFix, Tanium, Ivanti Endpoint Manager, SolarWinds Patch Manager, and others—providing key details on features, scalability, and usability to help teams identify the best fit for their specific needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager Enterprise-grade solution for deploying and managing patches across Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints with comprehensive compliance reporting. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.8/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | HCL BigFix Real-time patch management platform that automates vulnerability remediation and software deployment across diverse IT environments. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Tanium High-speed endpoint management platform enabling instant patch deployment and visibility at scale for large enterprises. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | Ivanti Endpoint Manager Unified endpoint management tool with advanced patch deployment capabilities for multi-platform environments including third-party apps. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | SolarWinds Patch Manager Integrated patch management for Windows and third-party software with automated deployment, testing, and WSUS integration. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 6 | ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus Affordable patch automation solution supporting over 850 third-party apps across Windows, macOS, and Linux with automated workflows. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 7 | Automox Cloud-native platform for automated patching of servers, laptops, and workstations across multiple OS without on-premises infrastructure. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 8 | NinjaOne RMM platform with built-in patch management for automated deployment, approvals, and reporting in MSP and SMB environments. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | PDQ Deploy Windows-focused deployment tool for rapid patch and software distribution with custom scripting and scheduling. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Kaseya VSA All-in-one IT management suite featuring automated patch deployment for Windows and third-party applications in remote environments. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 6.5/10 | 6.8/10 |
Enterprise-grade solution for deploying and managing patches across Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints with comprehensive compliance reporting.
Real-time patch management platform that automates vulnerability remediation and software deployment across diverse IT environments.
High-speed endpoint management platform enabling instant patch deployment and visibility at scale for large enterprises.
Unified endpoint management tool with advanced patch deployment capabilities for multi-platform environments including third-party apps.
Integrated patch management for Windows and third-party software with automated deployment, testing, and WSUS integration.
Affordable patch automation solution supporting over 850 third-party apps across Windows, macOS, and Linux with automated workflows.
Cloud-native platform for automated patching of servers, laptops, and workstations across multiple OS without on-premises infrastructure.
RMM platform with built-in patch management for automated deployment, approvals, and reporting in MSP and SMB environments.
Windows-focused deployment tool for rapid patch and software distribution with custom scripting and scheduling.
All-in-one IT management suite featuring automated patch deployment for Windows and third-party applications in remote environments.
Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager
enterpriseEnterprise-grade solution for deploying and managing patches across Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints with comprehensive compliance reporting.
Software Update Point (SUP) with WSUS synchronization for automated, policy-driven patch deployment and machine-wide compliance evaluation
Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager (MECM), formerly SCCM, is a comprehensive enterprise management solution that excels in patch deployment, software distribution, and endpoint compliance across Windows environments. It integrates deeply with Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) to automate patch scanning, deployment, and reporting, supporting both Microsoft and third-party updates via extensions. MECM enables phased rollouts, maintenance windows, and detailed compliance dashboards, making it ideal for large-scale IT operations.
Pros
- Unmatched integration with Microsoft ecosystem for seamless WSUS-based patch management and compliance reporting
- Supports third-party patch deployment through plugins like those from Ivanti or Adaptiva
- Advanced features like phased deployments, automatic rules, and hardware/software inventory
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring dedicated admins
- High resource demands on servers and clients, especially in large environments
- Primarily Windows-focused, with limited native support for non-Microsoft OSes
Best For
Large enterprises with predominantly Windows fleets needing robust, scalable patch management integrated into broader endpoint administration.
Pricing
Licensed via Microsoft Volume Licensing (per device/user, starting ~$20-50/month per endpoint depending on CALs and bundles); no standalone pricing.
HCL BigFix
enterpriseReal-time patch management platform that automates vulnerability remediation and software deployment across diverse IT environments.
Real-time, agent-based visibility and automated patching achieving fixes in under 2 hours across global endpoints
HCL BigFix is a robust endpoint management platform specializing in automated patch deployment across diverse operating systems including Windows, macOS, Unix, and Linux. It provides real-time visibility into over 8 million endpoints globally, enabling rapid detection and remediation of vulnerabilities within minutes or hours. Beyond patching, it supports compliance enforcement, software distribution, and inventory management, making it ideal for large-scale IT operations.
Pros
- Ultra-fast patch deployment with sub-minute relevance scanning and remediation across heterogeneous environments
- Broad third-party patch support and Fixlet-based automation for precise targeting
- Enterprise-scale scalability with proven handling of millions of endpoints
Cons
- Steep learning curve for the console and Fixlet authoring
- High resource usage on endpoints and premium pricing
- Complex initial setup requiring skilled administrators
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, distributed IT environments needing rapid, reliable patch management at scale.
Pricing
Subscription-based pricing starting at ~$28 per endpoint/year, with volume discounts and custom enterprise quotes.
Tanium
enterpriseHigh-speed endpoint management platform enabling instant patch deployment and visibility at scale for large enterprises.
Real-time, linear-scale patch deployment that assesses and remediates endpoints globally in seconds to minutes without bandwidth bottlenecks.
Tanium is a unified endpoint management platform that delivers real-time visibility, detection, and response across endpoints, operating systems, and cloud environments. As a patch deployment solution, it excels in rapid vulnerability scanning, patch prioritization, and deployment at massive scale, enabling IT teams to assess and remediate thousands or millions of endpoints in minutes. Its lightweight sensor architecture supports automated workflows for compliance and integrates with third-party patch catalogs like Microsoft and Adobe.
Pros
- Ultra-fast patch deployment across global fleets (e.g., millions of endpoints in minutes)
- Real-time visibility and querying for precise targeting
- Strong integration with SIEM, ITSM, and patch sources for automated workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and scripting needs
- High cost unsuitable for SMBs
- Overkill for organizations not needing full endpoint management suite
Best For
Large enterprises with distributed, high-volume endpoint fleets requiring speed and real-time control in patch management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing per endpoint/year (typically $50–$150+ depending on modules); requires sales quote.
Ivanti Endpoint Manager
enterpriseUnified endpoint management tool with advanced patch deployment capabilities for multi-platform environments including third-party apps.
Risk-based patch prioritization using analytics to focus on high-impact vulnerabilities first
Ivanti Endpoint Manager is a robust endpoint management platform with powerful patch deployment capabilities, automating the detection, testing, approval, and deployment of patches across Windows, macOS, Linux, and over 900 third-party applications. It provides detailed compliance reporting, vulnerability scanning, and remediation workflows to minimize security risks in enterprise environments. The solution integrates patch management with broader IT operations like asset management and remote control for a unified approach.
Pros
- Comprehensive patch catalog covering OS and third-party apps
- Strong automation and compliance reporting tools
- Scalable for large, heterogeneous environments
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Higher pricing suitable mainly for enterprises
- UI feels dated compared to newer competitors
Best For
Large enterprises with diverse endpoints needing integrated patch management and IT operations.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing, typically $8-15 per endpoint/year depending on modules and volume.
SolarWinds Patch Manager
enterpriseIntegrated patch management for Windows and third-party software with automated deployment, testing, and WSUS integration.
Deep integration with WSUS and SCCM, enabling enhanced patch management without requiring a full infrastructure replacement.
SolarWinds Patch Manager is a comprehensive patch management solution that automates the detection, testing, approval, and deployment of patches for Windows OS, Microsoft products, and over 850 third-party applications. It integrates deeply with WSUS and SCCM, allowing IT teams to leverage existing infrastructure while adding advanced scheduling, compliance reporting, and rollback capabilities. The tool provides centralized visibility into patch status across on-premises and virtual environments, helping organizations maintain security and reduce vulnerability exposure.
Pros
- Broad third-party patch support covering 850+ applications
- Seamless WSUS and SCCM integration with advanced automation
- Robust reporting and compliance tools for audits
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial configuration
- Pricing can be high for small to mid-sized organizations
- Primarily focused on Windows ecosystems with limited Linux/Mac support
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with existing WSUS or SCCM setups managing complex Windows patch deployments.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starts around $3,000-$5,000 annually for the base license, plus per-node fees (typically $30-$50 per endpoint/year).
ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus
enterpriseAffordable patch automation solution supporting over 850 third-party apps across Windows, macOS, and Linux with automated workflows.
Automated deployment and testing for over 850 third-party applications beyond standard OS patches
ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus is a robust patch management solution that automates the detection, testing, and deployment of patches for Windows, macOS, Linux, and over 850 third-party applications. It includes vulnerability assessment, compliance management, automated failure analysis, and detailed reporting to help IT teams maintain secure and up-to-date systems. The tool supports both on-premises and cloud-hosted deployments, integrating seamlessly with other ManageEngine products for endpoint management.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for 850+ third-party apps and multiple OS platforms
- Advanced automation including patch success/failure analysis and scheduling
- Strong reporting, compliance tools, and integration with AD/WSUS
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced customization and scripting
- Pricing scales quickly for large deployments beyond 250 endpoints
- Occasional delays in patch availability for newest vulnerabilities
Best For
Mid-sized IT teams managing diverse multi-OS environments with a need for extensive third-party patch automation.
Pricing
Free for up to 25 devices; Professional edition starts at $395/year for 50 computers, with Enterprise tiers scaling per endpoint (e.g., ~$1,195 for 250 computers).
Automox
enterpriseCloud-native platform for automated patching of servers, laptops, and workstations across multiple OS without on-premises infrastructure.
Worklets for no-code custom automation scripts that extend beyond standard patching
Automox is a cloud-based patch management platform designed to automate OS and third-party application updates across Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints. It enables IT teams to deploy patches quickly without on-premises infrastructure, using agent-based policies for scheduling, testing, and compliance. The platform offers real-time visibility, rollback capabilities, and custom scripting via Worklets for extended automation.
Pros
- Cloud-native design eliminates VPN and appliance needs for instant scalability
- Broad support for 300+ third-party apps alongside OS patching
- Intuitive dashboard with quick deployment and policy testing
Cons
- Pricing scales per-device and can become costly for very large fleets
- Advanced reporting and customization lag behind enterprise competitors
- Limited native integration with some IT service management tools
Best For
Mid-market IT teams and MSPs seeking simple, agent-based patch automation without complex infrastructure.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starts at ~$7-12 per endpoint/month (billed annually); tiers include Standard, Premium, and Enterprise with add-ons for advanced features.
NinjaOne
enterpriseRMM platform with built-in patch management for automated deployment, approvals, and reporting in MSP and SMB environments.
Agent-based 'Patch Confidence' automation that tests patches in staging before full deployment across fleets
NinjaOne is an all-in-one remote monitoring and management (RMM) platform with robust patch deployment capabilities for Windows, macOS, Linux, and third-party applications like browsers and Adobe products. It automates patch scanning, testing, approval workflows, deployment scheduling, and compliance reporting to keep endpoints secure and up-to-date. The solution integrates seamlessly with its broader RMM features for monitoring, alerting, and remediation.
Pros
- Comprehensive third-party patch support beyond just OS updates
- Fast, automated deployment with testing and rollback options
- Integrated RMM dashboard for unified visibility and reporting
Cons
- Per-device pricing can become expensive for large-scale deployments
- Fewer advanced customization options compared to dedicated patch tools
- Steep initial setup for users new to full RMM platforms
Best For
Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and mid-sized IT teams needing integrated RMM with reliable, automated patch management.
Pricing
Starts at ~$3/device/month for basic tier, up to $5+/device/month for advanced features; annual billing with custom quotes for enterprises.
PDQ Deploy
specializedWindows-focused deployment tool for rapid patch and software distribution with custom scripting and scheduling.
The community-driven Package Library offering thousands of ready-to-deploy packages for common software and patches
PDQ Deploy is a Windows-focused deployment tool designed for IT administrators to push software installations, patches, updates, and scripts to multiple endpoints across a network. It supports multi-step deployments, scheduling, and conditional logic, making it efficient for routine maintenance tasks. When paired with PDQ Inventory, it leverages scan data for precise targeting, though it's primarily a deployment engine rather than a full automated patch management suite.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for quick package creation
- Rapid deployment speeds with heartbeat and multicast options
- Extensive Package Library with thousands of pre-built deployers
Cons
- Windows-only support, no cross-platform capabilities
- Patch scanning requires separate PDQ Inventory purchase
- Pricing scales quickly for multiple admins or large deployments
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses with primarily Windows environments seeking simple, reliable patch and software deployment without enterprise complexity.
Pricing
Free version with basic features; Pro edition starts at $1,675/year per admin (Deploy + Inventory bundle), with volume discounts available.
Kaseya VSA
enterpriseAll-in-one IT management suite featuring automated patch deployment for Windows and third-party applications in remote environments.
Seamless integration of patch management within a full RMM suite, enabling unified monitoring, deployment, and remediation
Kaseya VSA is a comprehensive remote monitoring and management (RMM) platform that includes robust patch deployment capabilities for automating software updates across Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints. It offers automated patch scanning, testing, deployment scheduling, and compliance reporting, with support for Microsoft, third-party, and custom patches. The solution integrates patching with other IT management functions like monitoring and remote access, making it suitable for multi-tenant environments.
Pros
- Extensive patch library covering Microsoft and 1,000+ third-party applications
- Automated testing, approval workflows, and deployment scheduling
- Strong integration with RMM tools for endpoint management and reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex, feature-dense interface
- Higher pricing that may not suit small businesses
- Occasional performance lags with very large-scale deployments
Best For
Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and IT teams managing hundreds of endpoints across multiple clients.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$4.50 per endpoint/month (billed annually), with tiered pricing based on volume and additional modules.
Conclusion
In the realm of patch deployment software, Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager claims the top spot, offering enterprise-grade support across diverse endpoints and robust compliance reporting. HCL BigFix and Tanium follow as standout alternatives, with BigFix excelling in real-time remediation and Tanium delivering high-speed deployment at scale; together, they represent the best solutions for various organizational needs. All reviewed tools emphasize automation and scalability, simplifying the often complex task of keeping systems secure.
Ready to enhance your patch management? Start with Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager to leverage its comprehensive features and streamline your security efforts.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison