Windows Patch management is an important and yet monotonous task for system admins as they have to constantly stay on top of updates and patches, download, and install them. Microsoft eases this process to some extent with its Windows Server Update Services (WSUS).
Earlier known as Software Update Services, this is a network service that helps administrators to manage the distribution of updates released by Microsoft for a corporate environment. The service automatically identifies updates when they are released and distributes them to the entire corporate network. But just like any software, there is always a chance for WSUS to malfunction or Error out, and when this happens, your network becomes vulnerable.
Here’s our list of the top WSUS Client Diagnostic tools:
- Atera – EDITOR’S CHOICE This SaaS package offers remote monitoring and management tools for managed service providers and the platform includes a patch manager for Windows and macOS. Sign up for a 30-day free trial.
- ManageEngine Patch Connect Plus – FREE TRIAL A patch manager for devices running Windows, Linux, and macOS. Available for Windows Server or as a cloud service. Start a 30-day free trial.
- NinjaOne – FREE TRIAL A system management bundle designed for remote system management that includes patch rollout systems. This is a cloud-based service. Start a free trial.
- ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus – FREE TRIAL A patch manager for Windows, Linux, and macOS devices, suitable for large organizations. Available for Windows Server or as a cloud service. Download the 30-day free trial.
- SolarWinds Diagnostic Tool for WSUS Agent A free system troubleshooter that tests connections between a WSUS server and client. Installs on Windows Server.
- ADF Design WSUS tool for SpiceWorks A nice, free testing tool for WSUS that is particularly useful for those who clone desktop setups. Runs on Windows Server.
- BatchPatch A coordinator that interfaces to several different patching systems, including WSUS, creating one central console for all patching activities. Installs on Windows.
In general, hackers find exploits to hack into your network and these patches race to close these vulnerabilities. When your WSUS stops working, you are unaware of it, and this opens the possibilities for an attack.
But rest assured, there is a solution! To avoid this situation, there are some valuable tools that will monitor WSUS to ensure that it is up and running at all times so you aren’t left with any ugly surprises.
The Best WSUS Client Diagnostic Tools
Methodology for selecting the Best WSUS Client Diagnostic Tools
Companies that have hundreds of client PCs often find it challenging to offer secure management and deploy software updates. If not performed in the right manner, it can lead to serious issues. Hence, most companies have started investing in WSUS client diagnostic tools that help diagnose issues related to the client computer’s ability to interact with the WSUS server. Follow our shared methodologies to find the best WSUS Client Diagnostic Tool for your organization:
- Check if it utilizes or mimics WSUS
- Does it support integration with SCCM
- Does it offer patching with third-party sites?
- Does it support automated software installations?
- Check if it supports working with a fleet of computers.
- Does it offer free trials or a no-risk assessment period?
Let’s take a detailed look into each of these tools and software packages and see what each has to offer!
1. Atera – FREE TRIAL
Atera offers a patch manager for Windows and macOS as part of a remote monitoring and management (RMM) package.
Key features:
- Automated patching for Windows and macOS
- Maintenance windows
- Task automation
- Scheduled launch of scripts
- Install and update software
- Also provides network and server monitoring
Why do we recommend it?
Atera’s Patch Management is highly recommended for its automated patching capabilities for both Windows and macOS systems, making it an integral part of its comprehensive remote monitoring and management package. Atera’s Patch Management not only simplifies patching but also offers network and server monitoring, providing IT professionals with a unified solution for efficient system maintenance.
Who is it recommended for?
Atera’s Patch Management is recommended for IT professionals, managed service providers, and organizations seeking a robust solution for automating and managing patch updates on Windows and macOS platforms. It is particularly valuable for those who require seamless remote system tracking, task management, and user communication. Whether you manage IT operations for multiple clients or an in-house IT department, Atera’s Patch Management streamlines the patching process and ensures system security and reliability.
Pros:
- You can even track remote systems with Atera
- The built-in ticketing system helps in task management and user communication
- You can schedule software and script launch
- Allows monitoring server as well as networks
- Patches Windows as well as macOS automatically
Cons:
- Network device discovery is an extra-cost service.
Three plans:
- Pro – from $129
- Growth – from $179
- Power – from $209
Access a 30-day free trial.
EDITOR'S CHOICE
Atera is our top pick for a WSUS client diagnostic tool because it provides constant monitoring of Windows services through the WMI system. This package is a remote monitoring and management platform that is delivered from the cloud. There are versions for IT departments and managed service providers. The patch management system in Atera doesn’t use WSUS, so it doesn’t matter if your WSUS system is not functioning properly – patch management will carry on anyway. The Atera patch management service uses Chocolatey for Windows, and Homebrew for macOS. Other features in the Atera platform include a ticketing system, automated network monitoring, and software license management.
Download: Start a 30-day FREE Trial
Official Site: https://www.atera.com/signup/
OS: Cloud-based
2. ManageEngine Patch Connect Plus – FREE TRIAL
ManageEngine Patch Connect Plus has a plethora of features that give you the flexibility and power to really dive deep into your network infrastructure and troubleshoot as needed.
Key features
- Client & Server Troubleshooting tasks
- System management tasks within your SCCM console
- Create & Deploy Scripts within your environment
- Optimize Basic SCCM Tasks & Operations
- and much more!
Why do we recommend it?
ManageEngine Patch Connect Plus comes highly recommended for its wide range of features that empower network administrators to efficiently manage and troubleshoot their network infrastructure. With capabilities for client and server troubleshooting, system management tasks within the SCCM console, script creation and deployment, and optimization of basic SCCM tasks, it offers comprehensive tools for network maintenance and enhancement.
Who is it recommended for?
ManageEngine Patch Connect Plus is recommended for network administrators and IT teams seeking a robust solution for managing and optimizing their network infrastructure. It is particularly valuable for organizations utilizing the SCCM environment. This tool is ideal for those who need to streamline client and server troubleshooting, perform system management tasks, create and deploy scripts, and enhance the efficiency of SCCM operations. Whether you manage a small network or a complex enterprise infrastructure, ManageEngine Patch Connect Plus provides the flexibility and power needed for effective network administration and troubleshooting.
Start a free trial.
3. NinjaOne – FREE TRIAL
NinjaOne – formerly NinjaRMM – is a package of tools that enables a support technician to manage a remote system. This bundle includes all of the facilities that support operatives need and is mainly aimed at managed service providers (MSPs). However, it would also prove useful for the central IT department of multi-site corporations. This bundle of services includes a patch management system and diagnostic tools to ensure constant contact with endpoints and their monitoring agents.
Key features
- Checks the connections to all endpoints
- Generates a software endpoint for each device, which is constantly updated
- Gathers all patches available from vendor websites
- Schedules patches for out-of-hours rollout
- Checks on patch termination statuses
- Alerts on communication problems or patch failure
- Manages WSUS and SCCM activity
Why do we recommend it?
NinjaOne Patch Management is highly recommended for its comprehensive set of tools designed to streamline and enhance patch management processes. It excels in checking endpoint connections, generating up-to-date software endpoints, and gathering patches from vendor websites. With features like out-of-hours patch scheduling, status monitoring, and communication alerts, it significantly improves patch compliance and reduces patching time.
Who is it recommended for?
NinjaOne Patch Management is recommended for IT professionals, support technicians, and managed service providers (MSPs) seeking an efficient solution for patch management and remote system monitoring. It is particularly valuable for organizations with multi-site operations, including central IT departments of corporations.
Pros:
- Helps enhance patch compliance and cuts down on patching time
- Assembles all updates offered from vendor websites
- Allows patch management for multiple operating systems from a single console
- Purchasing and maintaining the costly hardware over time is no longer essential
- Check all endpoint connections and patch termination status
Cons:
- No option to access network devices like switches or routers remotely
Access a 14-day free trial.
4. ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus – FREE TRIAL
ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus is a comprehensive tool that handles all aspects of patch management including the monitoring of the WSUS service.
Key features
- Automates all phases of patch management
- Presents insightful reports
- Ensures 100% patch compliance status across all systems.
- Creates test groups for deployment on production environments.
- Manages and deploys patches to more than 250 third-party applications.
- Offers cross-platform support.
Why do we recommend it?
ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus is highly recommended for its comprehensive approach to patch management, automating all process phases, and ensuring 100% patch compliance across all systems. It stands out with its insightful reporting capabilities and the ability to manage and deploy patches for over 250 third-party applications, offering cross-platform support.
Who is it recommended for?
ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus is recommended for IT professionals, system administrators, and organizations in need of a powerful and efficient patch management solution. Whether you manage a small network or a complex enterprise infrastructure, ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus offers the features and capabilities needed to maintain a secure and up-to-date system environment.
Pros:
- Saves time by automating patch management workflows for SCCM and Intune
- Constantly scans endpoints and carries out patch rollouts
- Sends notification if a patch installation fails
- Offers flexible deployment options across different platforms
- Supports integration with different applications other than patch management solutions
Cons:
- Reporting and support needs improvement
- Users may take time to explore all features supported by the tool.
Get started with a 30-day free trial.
5. SolarWinds Diagnostic Tool for WSUS Agent
SolarWinds Diagnostic Tool for WSUS Agent is used to test WSUS connections and to ensure that they are up and running at all times.
Key Features
- Validates the important configuration values
- Tests connections to WSUS resources
- Identifies the causes of failure
- Stays on top of Windows Update Agent errors
- Suggests appropriate solutions to repair errors.
- Sends detailed reports
- Sends notifications of failed updates
- Performs centralized and automated software installations
Why do we recommend it?
We recommend the SolarWinds Diagnostic Tool for WSUS Agent as an essential tool for monitoring and ensuring the continuous operation of WSUS connections. It offers features that validate crucial configuration values, test WSUS connections, identify failure causes, and provide solutions for error repair. The tool’s ability to send detailed reports, notifications for failed updates, and perform centralized and automated software installations makes it a valuable asset for maintaining a reliable WSUS environment.
Who is it recommended for?
The SolarWinds Diagnostic Tool for WSUS Agent is recommended for IT administrators and teams responsible for managing WSUS environments. This tool is ideal for those who need to proactively validate WSUS configuration values, troubleshoot connection issues, and receive instant alerts on update failures. Its extensive reporting capabilities and error resolution suggestions make it an indispensable tool for maintaining a well-functioning WSUS infrastructure.
Pros:
- Installs software in a centralized and automated manner
- On discovering update failure, instantly sends alerts to the team
- Creates extensive reports and solutions to fix errors
- Checks the crucial configuration settings and identifies the root cause of the failure
- Application type, patch status, and WSUS target group can be used for sorting, filtering, and grouping reports.
Cons:
- SolarWinds Diagnostic Tool for WSUS Agent works only for the Windows operating system
It is 100% FREE for LIFE! Download the 100% free tool.
6. ADF Design WSUS tool for Spiceworks
ADF Design’s WSUS tool is a handy one for WSUS administrators who want to debug or manage their WSUS.
Key features
- All functions can be done through the command-line interface and Regedit
- Makes it possible to work on machines with restricted accounts and a strict GPO
- Ideal for anyone who wants to debug and manage WSUS
- Source code is available and can be modified to meet your preferences
Why do we recommend it?
We recommend ADF Design’s WSUS tool for its practicality and convenience in managing and debugging WSUS configurations. This tool simplifies WSUS-related tasks by offering a command-line interface and Regedit for all functions, making it accessible even on machines with restricted accounts and strict Group Policy Objects.
Who is it recommended for?
ADF Design’s WSUS tool is recommended for WSUS administrators, IT professionals, and anyone responsible for maintaining and debugging WSUS configurations. It is particularly valuable for individuals and organizations dealing with WSUS-related issues and constraints, including restricted accounts and stringent GPOs.
Pros:
- Uses command-line interface and Regedit to perform all functions
- Helps debug and manage WSUS related issues
- Ability to perform multiple actions on WSUS clients even with restricted accounts and stringent group rules
- Supports a WSUS client scanner that runs on demand to check for issues
- Automatically fix issues, store reports and records from WSUS clients
Cons:
- Limited and outdated interface design
- Not a great option for large networks
It is FREE. Click here to download.
7. BatchPatch
BatchPatch is a Windows update tool that comes loaded with many useful features.
Key features
- Installs Windows updates remotely across your entire network.
- Saves a lot of time by patching and rebooting computers simultaneously.
- Executes custom scripts on remote hosts
- Monitors status in real-time
- Retrieves Windows update history information at any time.
- No remote agent installation is needed.
- Terminates remote processes and retrieves logs from remote hosts.
Why do we recommend it?
BatchPatch is highly recommended for its robust Windows update management capabilities, allowing remote installation of updates across an entire network while saving significant time by patching and rebooting computers simultaneously. BatchPatch stands out with its user-friendly and colorful GUI interface, providing an efficient system for automating software update distribution, remote client access, and manual operations like restarting the WSUS service and running customized scripts.
Who is it recommended for?
BatchPatch is recommended for IT professionals, system administrators, and organizations seeking an efficient and user-friendly Windows update management tool. It is particularly valuable for those responsible for maintaining and updating computers across a network, making it suitable for various industries and network sizes.
Pros:
- It has a colorful GUI interface and a better management system that assists in automating the software update distribution.
- You can remotely access and query each client as well as manually carry out operations like restarting/rebooting the WSUS service and running customized scripts
- No installation is necessary as you can start the program by simply running the .exe file
- The WSUS client is tested on each computer by this update server to check if it is functional.
- Instead of distributing a single copy, a Microsoft command patch is downloaded on each machine.
Cons:
- More connectivity troubleshooting features would be nice
- The user interface is not very advanced.
Cost depends on the number of users and the number of years of support.
Contact the sales team for more than 15 years. Click here to download a trial version.
Conclusion about these Tools
To conclude, WSUS is a service from Microsoft that handles patch management for all Windows products. Since this WSUS service can stop working or encounter problems, it is important to have diagnostic tools that monitor this service to ensure that your network is protected at all times.
The above-mentioned tools are some of the best diagnostic tools for WSUS as they come with many useful features.
