Purpose:
The purpose of this Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is to establish standardized processes for workstation patch deployment, reboot management, user communication, and patch management platform administration. This document provides guidance for IT personnel on managing operating system and application updates, responding to patch-related user inquiries, supporting the transition from Kaseya X to Qualys Patch Management, and maintaining system security and compliance while minimizing disruption to end users.
Scope:
This document is intended for internal use only and serves as a reference for standardized patch management processes across managed workstation environments. Procedures related to server patching, network infrastructure, and non-managed devices are outside the scope of this SOP unless otherwise specified.
Background:
Due to challenges associated with workstation patching and unexpected system reboots that negatively impacted user productivity, designDATA implemented updates to its patch management procedures, including modifications to reboot enforcement policies and the evaluation of a new patch management platform.
Effective May 15, 2026, designDATA implemented the following TEMPORARY workstation patch management procedures while transitioning from Kaseya X to Qualys Patch Management:
-
Disabled forced workstation reboots and select automated patching functions within Kaseya X.
-
Continued deployment of operating system security updates to managed workstations.
-
Transitioned reboot management responsibilities from Kaseya X to Windows.
-
Configured Windows Active Hours from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM to minimize user disruption.
-
Workstations enter a Pending Reboot state when installed updates require a restart.
-
Windows may display restart notifications and schedule reboots outside of Active Hours until the required restart is completed.
Roles and Responsibilities
Von Scott (Supervisor)- Provides oversight of workstation patch management activities, approves process changes, reviews escalations, and ensures compliance with organizational patching standards.
Alannah Royall (Project Manager)- Maintains SOP and related process documentation, coordinates internal communications regarding patch management updates and changes, distributes project updates to staff, and ensures documentation remains current throughout the Qualys transition.
Felix Nguyen (Project Manager)- Supports Qualys migration planning and execution, coordinates onboarding activities, tracks project milestones, and assists with process improvement efforts related to workstation patch management.
