Automating Patch Management

Introduction

Maintaining security and compliance across cloud infrastructure is a daunting task, especially with scaling workloads and complex environments. This complexity often leads to overlooked vulnerabilities, increasing the risk of cyber threats.

autobotAI addresses this challenge with automated patch management, improving security and compliance by seamlessly applying updates to your Linux instances managed by AWS Systems Manager (SSM). With autobotAI, you can efficiently schedule and execute patching operations, reducing manual effort and ensuring continuous protection.

The video below demonstrates how the bot automates patch management for SSM-managed Linux instances, providing a seamless workflow from instance retrieval to remediation.

How to Configure and Run the Automation 🛠️

• Import the Bot:

  1. Search for EC2 Patch SSM Managed Linux Instances in the autobotAI library.
  2. Click Import to add the bot to your automation dashboard.

• Review the Workflow:

  1. View the imported workflow in the editor.
  2. The workflow includes steps for Instance Retrieval, Condition Nodes for Filtering, Approval, and Remediation.

• Save and Schedule:

  1. Save the workflow after reviewing and configuring nodes.
  2. Use the cron scheduler to set up periodic execution of the bot based on your organizational needs.

• Run the Bot:

  1. Upon execution, the bot evaluates instances, filters based on criteria, and sends an approval message to the designated approver.
  2. Once approved, the remediation process begins, ensuring patches are applied securely.

Supported Linux Distributions

This bot supports the following distributions:

1. Amazon Linux
2. Ubuntu
3. Rocky
4. Debian
5. Red Hat
6. CentOS / CentOS Stream
7. Alma
8. Oracle Linux
9. SLES (SUSE Linux Enterprise Server)

Benefits of autobotAI Patch Management 🏆

1. Enhanced Security: Regular application of security patches protects against known vulnerabilities.
2. Compliance Adherence: Ensures adherence to security standards and best practices.
3. Automated Efficiency: Reduces manual intervention, streamlining patching processes.
4. Customizable Workflows: Tailor the bot to meet specific organizational requirements.

By automating patch management with autobotAI, organizations can safeguard their infrastructure, ensuring Linux instances remain secure and compliant with minimal effort.