Charter School Associates operates a network of charter schools that prioritize individualized education, character development, and community engagement.
Introduction
Charter School Associates, a leading educational network, needed a more effective way to manage and secure its extensive IT infrastructure. Their existing tools couldn’t reliably patch all deployed software, creating gaps in security and requiring time-consuming manual updates. By implementing Vicarius’ vRx, Charter School Associates has streamlined their patch management process, gained real-time vulnerability visibility, and strengthened their network security.
Challenges
Previously, Charter School Associates used Microsoft Endpoint Manager to manage updates but found it limited in scope and unable to provide comprehensive patching. Without a robust solution, IT staff had to handle many updates manually and rely on independent research to identify vulnerabilities, increasing operational strain and security risk. This lack of visibility and efficiency slowed down their ability to maintain an updated and secure network across all locations.
Solution
vRx empowered Charter School Associates by consolidating vulnerability discovery, prioritization, and remediation into a single, streamlined platform. The team now has extensive control over patch management, allowing them to address security risks proactively and efficiently. Key elements include:
- Centralized Dashboard: Real-time visibility into network vulnerabilities, including zero-day risks, and a consolidated interface for monitoring and management.
- Automated Patch Scheduling: Allows the IT team to set patching schedules, reducing manual work and ensuring timely updates across all systems.
- Flexible Deployment Options: Enables selective deployment by grouping devices based on specific needs or software requirements, such as targeted patches for certain school locations.
- Patchless Protection: Secures applications with unpatched vulnerabilities, providing additional coverage until official patches are available.
- Scripting Engine: Provides a library of ready-made scripts, enabling the IT team to conduct upgrades (e.g., Windows 10 to 11) without manual intervention.
Vicarius provided us with robust, real-time visibility over our vulnerabilities and expedited the patch management process, saving us hundreds of hours.
Impact
Since implementing vRx, Charter School Associates has seen notable improvements in security operations and efficiency. Key benefits include:
- Reduced MTTR: Accelerated vulnerability remediation processes, minimizing exposure to potential risks.
- Hundreds of Hours Saved: Automated updates and centralized patching have eliminated manual update tasks, allowing the IT team to focus on strategic initiatives.
- Enhanced Patch Flexibility: Granular patch deployment enables targeted updates for specific device groups, supporting more tailored and efficient patching across multiple locations.
- Real-Time Security Insights: Instant alerts and risk assessments in the dashboard eliminate the need for independent research, helping the IT team stay ahead of new vulnerabilities.
- Streamlined Operations: The scripting engine and automated patching schedules significantly reduce manual intervention, keeping devices updated without disrupting school operations.
Conclusion
Charter School Associates is highly satisfied with vRx, particularly the streamlined process, flexibility of the patching system, and Vicarius’ responsive support. They have rated the platform nine out of ten, noting the substantial time savings, improved security posture, and Vicarius’ commitment to continuous product enhancement. Read the full review here.
