Microsoft Windows Server Update Services vs Qualys CyberSecurity Asset Management comparison

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) is a patch management tool that simplifies the administrator’s task of deploying the latest Microsoft updates. Administrators use WSUS to manage the distribution of updates released through Microsoft Update to computers in their network.

WSUS has features you can use to manage and distribute updates from a management console. The WSUS server can also be a source of updates to other servers within the organization, acting as an upstream server.

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services Use Cases

The four main use cases that WSUS adds value to businesses are:

• Centralizes update management.
• Automates update management.
• Performs general patch management to ensure compliance and protect against vulnerabilities.
• Downloads all endpoint updates from data centers to a central location and then distribute them across the organization’s network.

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services Features

This built-in server includes the following features:

• Includes Windows PowerShell cmdlets.
• Features client and server separation, which means you can deliver versions of the Windows Update Agent (WUA) separately from WSUS.
• Automatic download of updates.
• Deploy a targeted download of updates to a specific group of computers.
• Multiple language support.
• Advanced reporting capabilities.
• Centralized management of network resources.

Requirements

In order to be able to use WSUS to manage and deploy updates, it is important to use a supported WSUS version, such as:

• WSUS 10.0.14393
• WSUS 10.0.17763
• WSUS 6.2 and 6.3 with installed KB 3095113 and KB 3159706

Microsoft Windows Server Update Services Benefits

• Stable.
• Ensures servers are always patched and prevents vulnerabilities.
• Works great for internal updating.
• Enforces automated updates and patching for applications.
• Because the solution is used in the cloud, clients are always using the latest version.
• Highly scalable and configurable regardless of the organization’s layout.

Different Types of WSUS Deployments

• Simple WSUS deployment: A server inside the corporate firewall serves clients via a private intranet. The WSUS server downloads updates by connecting to Microsoft Update. Using this model, you can configure multiple WSUS servers with a parent WSUS server.
  
  
• Computer groups: You can use computer groups to deliver updates to specific computers. There are two basic computer groups: All Computers or Unassigned Computers. When a client first contacts the WSUS server, it is added to both. You can then create a group from the Unassigned Computers group to the new group.
  
  
• WSUS server hierarchies: The flexibility of WSUS enables the creation of complex hierarchies of servers. To do this, you need only a single WSUS server connected to Microsoft Update. This will serve as an “upstream server,” and the connected servers as “downstream servers.”
  
  
  • You can link WSUS servers in two modes: autonomous or replica. In the autonomous mode, the upstream server shares the updates with the downstream servers but doesn’t update status or group information.
    
    
  • The upstream server shares updates, status, and group information in replica mode. You cannot administer replica servers apart from the upstream WSUS server.

Qualys CyberSecurity Asset Management provides advanced real-time asset visibility, dynamic tagging, and External Attack Surface Management. It streamlines asset discovery and management using cloud agents and IP-based scanning, enhancing risk management and software lifecycle tracking.

Qualys CyberSecurity Asset Management offers a comprehensive solution for managing asset inventories and tracking software lifecycle states. It facilitates network visibility and supports zero-day vulnerability solutions, enhancing security posture through efficient monitoring. Users benefit from its cloud-based interface, which provides in-depth asset configurations and insights. Key features include automated vulnerability scanning and unauthorized software management, reducing manual efforts. The platform also emphasizes the importance of timely remediation and ongoing risk mitigation across multiple environments. Despite its strengths, users note the need for enhanced integration with additional CMDBs beyond ServiceNow, as well as cost efficiency improvements. Requests also include better report customization, more scan control, and a simplified UI.

• Real-time Visibility: Offers continuous insight into asset status and condition.
• Dynamic Tagging: Allows for flexible organization and assessment of assets.
• External Attack Surface Management: Identifies potential threats from external sources.
• Automated Vulnerability Scanning: Reduces manual scanning efforts and identifies vulnerabilities instantly.
• Unauthorized Software Management: Detects and manages software not approved for use.
• Asset Purge Rule: Automates the removal of obsolete assets from the inventory.

• Enhanced Security Posture: Gains stronger defense through effective asset monitoring.
• Efficient Risk Management: Identifies threats quickly, enabling timely resolutions.
• Improved Compliance: Assists in meeting industry standards and regulations.
• Reduced Manual Effort: Automates repetitive tasks, saving time and resources.
• Comprehensive Insight: Provides detailed data for informed decision making.

In industries like finance, healthcare, and manufacturing, Qualys CyberSecurity Asset Management enhances asset control by offering visibility into hardware and software configurations. It aids in maintaining security compliance and identifying unauthorized software, crucial for sectors with strict regulatory requirements.