IPM and Trend Micro Introduce Virtual Patching Solution to Secure Outdated Windows Server System

IPM, in collaboration with Trend Micro, has introduced a security solution known as Virtual Patching, designed to safeguard businesses still relying on Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2 systems. The urgency arises from Microsoft’s impending end of support for these operating systems in October, which will leave them vulnerable to cyberattacks due to the lack of security updates.

As Microsoft withdraws its support, the absence of security patches exposes users of Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2 to risks from malicious actors who continually exploit vulnerabilities. This potential vulnerability underscores the need for a proactive defense mechanism.

To address this security gap, IPM, a subsidiary of the Ricoh Group known for its IT solutions and services, has partnered with the Japanese software giant Trend Micro to introduce Virtual Patching.

Virtual Patching, as explained by IPM, plays a crucial role in their operating system protection strategy. It works by invisibly identifying and blocking vulnerabilities, thereby preventing potential network exploits. This innovative approach gives IT professionals the advantage of time, allowing them to plan the application of security patches without the pressure of immediate threats.

The significance of this solution lies in its ability to “protect the unprotected,” as emphasized by David López, IPM’s Cybersecurity Product Manager. With Virtual Patching, servers running on Windows Server 2012 or 2012 R2 can remain resilient against cyber threats even after Microsoft’s support expires.

López also pointed out that migrating to higher versions of Windows is a viable option for businesses relying on these outdated systems. However, he noted that this transition is often complex, potentially fraught with challenges such as application incompatibility with the new version.

In this context, Trend Micro emerges as a pivotal partner with significant operational capacity and expertise to effectively implement this solution and identify vulnerabilities. Notably, Trend Micro’s track record, with data from 2022 indicating that they identified up to 64 percent of published vulnerabilities, underscores their expertise in the field.

In summary, IPM and Trend Micro’s Virtual Patching solution serve as a lifeline for businesses in the midst of transitioning away from Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2. It offers a practical defense against the looming cyber threats in a post-support landscape.