Firmware Updates: A Key Component of Your Cybersecurity Strategy

Firmware patch management is the process of updating and maintaining firmware, which is low-level software that runs on the hardware devices of a computer system. Firmware provides the necessary instructions and code that allows the hardware components of an endpoint to work in harmony; however, despite its importance, IT teams often overlook and ignore firmware patch management. Unfortunately, firmware-based vulnerabilities are common and impact endpoints differently.

So few customers we talk to even attempt to address firmware patching, and there are a lot of great excuses as to why….

The Importance of Firmware Patch Management

Firmware patch management is critical for ensuring the security and stability of enterprise endpoints. Neglecting firmware updates can result in serious consequences. Last year, InsydeH2O UEFI firmware vulnerabilities were discovered by security researchers, affecting millions of enterprise endpoints from major vendors such as Dell, Intel, Microsoft, HP, and Siemens. These vulnerabilities are related to System Management Mode (SMM) and, if left unpatched, can lead to arbitrary code execution and privilege escalation. Attackers can exploit these vulnerabilities to bypass security perimeters, including secure boot processes, to gain unauthorized access to endpoints, install malware, and steal sensitive data. Hence, keeping firmware up to date with the latest security and functionality fixes is crucial.

Secondly, firmware patch management is a crucial regulatory compliance requirement, especially for organizations operating in sector-specific areas like healthcare, financial services, etc. So, by implementing effective firmware patch management, organizations can demonstrate their commitment to security and ensure compliance with the regulations.

Lastly, vendors often provide technical support and security updates only for the latest firmware versions. Therefore, in addition to improving security resilience and adhering to compliance requirements, firmware patch management also helps to improve the performance of devices — Firmware updates often include performance optimizations and bug fixes that can enhance device functionality and reduce downtime.

Why is Firmware Patch Management Often Ignored?

Organizations often overlook firmware patch management for several reasons. Firstly, firmware updates can be complex and time-consuming, requiring specialized knowledge and technical expertise - this is typically a challenge for organizations that need more in-house expertise or resources to allocate to the task. As a result, firmware patch management is often viewed as a low-priority task compared to other security measures, such as network security or endpoint protection. Such a perception can lead to neglecting firmware updates, even though outdated firmware can lead to severe vulnerabilities.

Furthermore, firmware updates can sometimes disrupt system operations, requiring downtime or causing compatibility issues with existing hardware or software used by customers - this creates a significant reluctance to apply updates in production environments especially if the person attempting to do the patching is met with anger and/or met with news that their particular piece of equipment generates millions of dollars per millisecond.

Lastly, organizations may assume that the vendor has already tested and validated firmware updates before release, leading to a false sense of security. However, this is not always the case, and sometimes, vendors may only discover vulnerabilities after a firmware update has been released. Despite these challenges, organizations must prioritize firmware patch management to protect their endpoints and critical data from cyber threats.

Improving Firmware Patch Management Posture

Despite its importance, firmware is often overlooked in the context of cybersecurity. This is unfortunate, as the firmware is vulnerable to attack and can be exploited to gain unauthorized access to a device or network. For example, firmware attacks have been used to bypass encryption, steal sensitive data, and take control of devices.

Given the critical role that firmware plays in the functioning of devices and the growing threat of firmware attacks, organizations must implement effective firmware patch management. However, implementing a successful firmware patch management process requires a well-defined strategy and a systematic approach.

Below are some recommendations for how organizations should address firmware update/patch management operations:

● Inventory: Creating an inventory of all the devices containing firmware is crucial to determine what version of security update and patches to deploy. This inventory should include relevant information, such as the manufacturer, model, and firmware version.

● Risk Assessment and Prioritization: assessing the risks associated with each device helps to identify the potential impact of a vulnerability, the likelihood of exploitation, and the availability of patches and updates. Then, establishing remediation priorities based on the outcomes of a risk assessment allows organizations to apply high-priority patches with the least impact on critical business processes.

● Monitor and Verify: Organizations should regularly monitor the status of their devices to ensure that firmware patches and updates are applied correctly; this includes testing said patches to determine that they are functioning as intended.

● Continuous Patch Management Process: implementing a systematic and repeatable patch management process is essential for scalability. Such a process should include downloading patches/updates, testing them in a controlled environment, and deploying the patches to firmware in the production environment.

● Patch Management Policy: establishing a consistent patch management process across an organization is crucial to developing a robust patch management policy. This policy should outline the procedures for assessing firmware, prioritizing patches and updates, and applying patches and updates to devices. The policy should also include a timeline for applying patches and updates and should be reviewed and updated regularly.

Conclusion

Firmware is the first line of defense against security threats and vulnerabilities, as it controls the functionality of hardware devices. To improve their firmware patch management posture, organizations must prioritize firmware patch management as part of their overall security strategy — not as a lagging afterthought. With the right tools, processes, and guidance, IT teams can effectively manage their firmware and ensure that their computer systems operate optimally.

Is your company looking for expert assistance with the firmware patch management process? Don't let the complexities of firmware patch management hold you back: contact the experts at Ayla Consulting today for a tailored patch management plan to help improve your firmware security posture.