As we are approaching the third Patch Tuesday updates of 2024 and reaching the end of the first quarter, it’s truly remarkable how swiftly time passes in the world of technology. With each passing month, the need for software updates and security patches becomes increasingly urgent. Microsoft is now actively encouraging users to update their operating systems as the current version edges closer to its end-of-support phase.
This Patch Tuesday is lying on 12 March 2024 this month and Windows 11, 10, other versions, and associated software programs are going to receive significant updates. These may include Adobe Acrobat and Reader, Office Suite, SharePoint, and Exchange Server.
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Patch Tuesday 12 March 2024 Security updates for Windows 11 and 10 possibilities
Brief of Patch Tuesday, February 2024 releases
Looking back at the previous Patch Tuesday in February, it followed the familiar routine of addressing vulnerabilities in Microsoft’s suite of products, including Windows, Office, and Exchange Server.
Especially, two zero-day vulnerabilities were identified, underscoring the ongoing need for vigilance and proactive security measures. Windows 11 and 10 received fixes for a total of 41 and 44 vulnerabilities, respectively, highlighting the ongoing efforts to bolster system security.
Patch Tuesday, February 13, 2024 – Windows 11 and 10 will get security updates
Release of NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0
Before delving into the forecast for Patch Tuesday 12 March 2024, it’s essential to take note of the recent update to the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) 2.0. Released on February 26th, this updated framework represents a significant evolution, expanding its scope beyond critical infrastructure systems to provide guidance on managing cybersecurity risks across various sectors.
With an emphasis on governance, compliance, risk management, and security at all levels of an organization, the NIST CSF 2.0 serves as a valuable resource for enhancing cybersecurity posture.
Highlights from 2023
Reflecting on the cybersecurity landscape of 2023, it’s clear that the threat landscape continues to evolve. Microsoft addressed a total of 23 zero-day vulnerabilities throughout the year, with a focus on mitigating the elevation of privilege and security feature bypass issues.
Similarly, both Apple and Google encountered their fair share of zero-day vulnerabilities, prompting proactive measures such as Apple’s introduction of Rapid Response Security Updates and Google’s increased frequency of Chrome updates.
Windows 11 Moment 5 Update Preview and Further Plans
In the realm of operating system updates, Microsoft’s recent release of Windows 11 Moment 5 preview marks another significant development. With updates to Windows Autopatch and Windows Update for Business, Microsoft is streamlining the update process to ensure that users have access to the latest security enhancements.
See: KB5034848 Windows 11 23H2 Build 22631.3227 Moment 5 update to Insider
Notably, Microsoft’s plans to automatically update older versions of Windows 11 to 23H2 signal a proactive approach to addressing security vulnerabilities and ensuring the integrity of the operating system ecosystem.
Patch Tuesday 12 March 2024 Forecast
Looking ahead to Patch Tuesday 12 March 2024, the forecast suggests a continuation of the standard monthly updates from Microsoft, covering a range of products including operating systems, Office suite, SharePoint, and Exchange Server.
Additionally, Adobe Acrobat and Reader may receive minor updates to address security vulnerabilities. Meanwhile, both Apple and Google are expected to release security updates for their respective operating systems and browsers, with Mozilla likely to update Thunderbird and Firefox. This may be understood pointwise:
- This should be a specific monthly release from Microsoft consisting of all the supported Operating Systems, MS Office, SharePoint, and Exchange server updates.
- Adobe Acrobat and Reader got a security update previous Patch Tuesday (February 2024) so we may notice a minor update, if any.
- Apple released security updates for all their PC operating systems and Safari a few days ago, so make sure to include them in your current patch rollout.
- Google pushed a Chrome Beta for Desktop 123.0.6312.28 for Windows, Linux, and MacOS recently, so expect the formal update to come out on Patch Tuesday.
- Mozilla already rolled out Thunderbird 115.8.1 this week, so we may see updates for Firefox and Firefox ESR next week.
Windows 11 Cumulative Updates Monitor
Windows 10 Cumulative Updates List
Proactive Cybersecurity Measures
In light of these developments, it’s crucial for organizations to stay informed and proactive in managing their cybersecurity posture. By leveraging resources such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0 and implementing timely software updates, organizations can mitigate risks and safeguard their systems against emerging threats in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
That’s all!!