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CompTIA Tech+ 6.2 CompTIA Tech+ 3.2 CompTIA A+ Core 2 2.6 CompTIA Tech+ 3.6
TechKnowSurge Catalog Interactives Patch It or Remove It?
InteractiveComputeFree

Patch It or Remove It?

A hole in Windows, in an app you use, or in one you never open: update Windows, update the app, or uninstall it?

⚑ Complete this interactive to capture a CTF flag worth 5 points.

About this interactive

The Patching Software demo and the Removing Software demo are two halves of one habit: keep every program on the computer either up to date or gone. A vulnerability is a flaw in code that someone can exploit. Once it is known, and above all once it is public on the CVE list, the computer is exposed until the patch is installed. The goal is to keep that window as short as possible. Windows Update patches the operating system: Windows itself and the parts that come with it, like File Explorer and the sign-in screen. Operating systems have become good at updating, but that does not update your other programs. Chrome has its own update, under Settings, About Chrome, and so do most programs you install; those are the ones that get overlooked. A program you no longer use still takes up storage and may run services, and every program you keep is another set of possible vulnerabilities. The lesson's advice: when you are done with a program and do not expect to use it again, uninstall it in Add or Remove Programs. Drag each card into a bin, then check your answers.

What you'll learn

Aligned to

CompTIA Tech+
6.2 Explain methods to secure devices and best practices.
3.2 Compare and contrast components of an operating system.
3.6 Compare and contrast general application concepts and uses.
CompTIA A+ Core 2
2.6 Given a scenario, configure a workstation to meet best practices for security.

Key terms

Patch
A software update released by a developer to fix security vulnerabilities, bugs, or functionality issues in an operating system or application.
Vulnerability
A weakness in a system, application, or process that can be exploited by a threat actor.
Attack Surface
The total set of points in a system where an unauthorized user can attempt to enter or extract data.
Window of Vulnerability
The period of time between the discovery or disclosure of a vulnerability and the application of a patch, during which a system remains exposed to exploitation.
Add/Remove Programs
A Windows Control Panel utility that allows users to view, install, and uninstall software applications on a system.

Topics

Patch Management Vulnerability Software Updates Attack Surface Interactive Categorize

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