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IT Asset and Patching Interview Question &answer

The document outlines best practices and strategies for IT Asset Management (ITAM) and patch management, including ensuring data accuracy, managing software licenses, and handling patch failures. It emphasizes the importance of structured lifecycle management, compliance with regulatory frameworks, and the application of ITIL principles. Additionally, it discusses methods for staying updated with industry trends and improving processes through automation and collaboration.

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amaansid0627
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© © All Rights Reserved
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
24 views16 pages

IT Asset and Patching Interview Question &answer

The document outlines best practices and strategies for IT Asset Management (ITAM) and patch management, including ensuring data accuracy, managing software licenses, and handling patch failures. It emphasizes the importance of structured lifecycle management, compliance with regulatory frameworks, and the application of ITIL principles. Additionally, it discusses methods for staying updated with industry trends and improving processes through automation and collaboration.

Uploaded by

amaansid0627
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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‭1.

IT Asset Management (ITAM) Questions‬

‭1.1 How do you ensure IT asset data accuracy in your organization?‬

‭✅ I ensure accuracy by implementing the following practices:‬


‭●‬ ‭Regular reconciliation between ITAM tool data and physical asset audits to verify‬
‭records.‬


ui
‭●‬ ‭Automated asset discovery tools like to detect new, moved, or retired assets.‬
‭●‬ ‭Standardized asset tagging using barcodes, QR codes, or RFID for tracking.‬

iq
‭●‬ ‭Integration with procurement systems to maintain real-time updates on asset‬
‭acquisitions.‬

dd
‭●‬ ‭Periodic compliance reporting to detect anomalies and ensure adherence to‬
‭company policies.‬
‭✅ Example: In my previous role, I noticed discrepancies in asset records due to‬

Si
‭inconsistent data entry. By implementing automated reconciliation scripts with SCCM‬
‭and PowerShell, I reduced data mismatches by 40%.‬

n
aa
‭1.2 How do you manage the full lifecycle of IT assets?‬
Am

‭✅ I follow a structured IT asset lifecycle management approach:‬


‭●‬ ‭Procurement & Acquisition: Work with vendors and procurement teams to‬
‭ensure proper asset documentation.‬
‭●‬ ‭Deployment & Allocation: Assign assets to users with proper logging in ITAM‬
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‭tools. Usage & Monitoring: Continuously track asset performance, maintenance‬


‭schedules, and compliance status.‬
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‭●‬ ‭Upgrade & Redeployment: Optimize resources by reassigning underutilized‬


‭assets instead of buying new ones.‬
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‭●‬ ‭Retirement & Disposal: Ensure secure data wiping before recycling or‬
‭decommissioning per industry standards.‬
‭✅ Example: At my last company, I implemented an automated asset lifecycle tracking‬
oh

‭system using ServiceNow, reducing asset misplacement incidents by 30% and‬


‭optimizing hardware refresh cycles.‬
‭M

‭1.3 How do you handle software license management and compliance?‬

‭✅ I manage software licenses by:‬


‭●‬ ‭Tracking software entitlements using ITAM tools (e.g., Flexera, Snow License‬
‭Manager). Conducting regular audits to ensure compliance with licensing‬
‭agreements.‬
‭●‬ ‭Identifying unused software to reclaim licenses and reduce costs.‬
‭●‬ ‭Managing renewals and expiration alerts to avoid compliance violations.‬
‭●‬ ‭Ensuring compliance with vendor terms (Microsoft, Adobe, etc.) to prevent legal‬
‭risks.‬
‭✅ Example: I once identified unused software licenses worth $20,000 using Flexera,‬
‭allowing the company to reallocate them efficiently and cut costs.‬

‭2. Endpoint Patching & Security Questions‬


ui
‭2.1 How do you ensure timely and effective patch management?‬

iq
‭✅ I follow a systematic approach:‬
‭●‬ ‭Classify endpoints based on criticality and business impact.‬

dd
‭●‬ ‭Monitor security advisories from vendors and CVE databases.‬
‭●‬ ‭Test patches in a controlled environment before production rollout.‬
‭●‬ ‭Deploy patches in a phased manner to mitigate risks.‬

Si
‭●‬ ‭Automate patch deployment‬
‭●‬ ‭Implement rollback strategies in case of patch failures.‬

n
‭✅ Example: By implementing an automated patching schedule in SCCM, I reduced‬
aa
‭patch deployment time by 50% and improved compliance rates from 85% to 98%.‬
Am

‭2.2 How do you prioritize patches when multiple updates are released?‬

‭✅ I prioritize patches based on:‬


‭●‬ ‭Severity level: Critical security patches take precedence over feature updates.‬
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‭●‬ ‭Exploitability: If a vulnerability is actively exploited, it requires immediate action.‬


‭●‬ ‭Business impact: Ensuring minimal disruption to critical applications.‬
‭●‬ ‭Compliance requirements: Prioritizing updates necessary for regulatory‬
m

‭compliance (ISO 27001, HIPAA).‬


‭✅ Example: During the Log4j vulnerability crisis, I coordinated an emergency patch‬
am

‭deployment within 24 hours, ensuring that all business-critical applications were‬


‭secured before attackers could exploit the flaw.‬
oh

‭2.3 How do you handle patch failures or rollbacks?‬

‭✅ I troubleshoot patch failures using these steps:‬


‭M

‭●‬ ‭Analyze logs from ITAM tool or event viewer for error codes.‬
‭●‬ ‭Check system dependencies to identify conflicts with installed applications.‬
‭●‬ ‭Ensure proper network connectivity if patches fail due to download errors.‬
‭●‬ ‭Use manual installation methods if automated deployments fail.‬
‭●‬ ‭Rollback to a previous stable state using System Restore or snapshot recovery.‬
‭✅ Example: A critical update once caused boot failures on multiple workstations. I‬
‭quickly rolled back the update via SCCM and worked with Microsoft to implement a‬
‭revised patch, minimizing downtime.‬
‭3. Incident Management & Troubleshooting‬

‭3.1 How do you handle zero-day vulnerability patches?‬

‭✅ I take the following steps:‬


‭●‬ ‭Verify threat intelligence from sources like NIST, CISA, and vendor security‬


ui
‭bulletins.‬
‭●‬ ‭Assess business impact and identify affected systems.‬

iq
‭●‬ ‭Test the patch in a staging environment before deploying it organization-wide.‬
‭●‬ ‭Deploy the patch in emergency mode with phased rollouts for critical systems‬

dd
‭first.‬
‭●‬ ‭Implement temporary mitigations (e.g., disabling vulnerable services, enhancing‬

Si
‭firewall rules) if no patch is available.‬
‭●‬ ‭Monitor for anomalies post-deployment and ensure rollback options are‬
‭available.‬

n
‭✅ Example: During the WannaCry outbreak, I rapidly identified unpatched endpoints,‬
aa
‭deployed emergency patches, and implemented additional network security measures,‬
‭preventing a potential breach.‬
Am

‭4. ITIL & Best Practices‬

‭4.1 How do you apply ITIL principles to asset and patch management?‬
ad

‭✅ I follow ITIL best practices by:‬


m

‭●‬ ‭Using Change Management to assess risks before deploying patches.‬


‭●‬ ‭Maintaining an up-to-date CMDB to track asset relationships and dependencies.‬
am

‭●‬ ‭Implementing Incident and Problem Management frameworks for‬


‭troubleshooting patch failures.‬
‭●‬ ‭Ensuring Service Level Agreements (SLAs) are met for patch deployments and‬
‭asset provisioning.‬
oh

‭✅ Example: By following ITIL Change Management, I reduced patch failure incidents by‬
‭40% and improved SLA adherence in my previous role.‬
‭M

‭5. Behavioral & Situational Questions‬

‭5.1 Tell me about a time you improved an ITAM or patching process‬‭.‬

‭✅ In my previous job, IT asset tracking was inefficient, leading to frequent compliance‬


‭issues. I implemented an automated asset tracking system using ServiceNow, improving‬
‭inventory accuracy by 35% and saving 20+ hours per month in manual tracking.‬
‭5.2 How do you handle resistance from employees who delay patch updates?‬

‭✅ I educate users on the risks of unpatched systems, communicate patch schedules in‬
‭advance, and offer flexibility (e.g., allowing users to choose a maintenance window).‬
‭Additionally, I collaborate with business leaders to align patching policies with‬
‭operational needs.‬


ui
‭6. Industry Trends & Continuous Learning‬

iq
‭6.1 How do you stay updated with the latest trends in IT asset and patch‬
‭management?‬

dd
‭✅ I follow cybersecurity news, attend IT conferences, participate in vendor training,‬
‭and pursue certifications like ITIL, Microsoft Endpoint Manager, and CISSP to stay ahead‬

Si
‭of industry trends.‬

n
‭7. Advanced IT Asset Management (ITAM) Questions‬
aa
‭7.1 How do you manage IT asset depreciation and financial reporting?‬
Am

‭✅ I track asset depreciation using standard accounting methods like Straight Line and‬
‭Double Declining Balance. ITAM tools like ServiceNow help generate financial reports,‬
‭ensuring compliance with budget forecasts.‬
ad

‭7.2 How do you handle hardware refresh cycles and optimize asset utilization?‬
m

‭✅ I monitor hardware performance, schedule lifecycle upgrades, and redeploy‬


‭underutilized assets instead of unnecessary purchases, reducing costs by 20-30%.‬
am
oh

‭7.3 How do you prevent unauthorized software installations and shadow IT?‬
‭M

‭✅ By implementing Application Whitelisting, User Access Control (UAC), and regular‬


‭audits, I prevent security risks and ensure compliance.‬

‭7.4 What are the key differences between IT Asset Management (ITAM) and‬
‭Configuration Management (CMDB)?‬
‭✅ ITAM focuses on financial and lifecycle tracking, whereas CMDB is a single source of‬
‭truth of IT assets it maintains configuration and relationship data of IT assets for‬
‭impact analysis and change management.‬

‭8. Advanced Endpoint Patching & Security Questions‬

‭8.1 How do you handle patching for remote employees and off-network devices?‬


ui
‭✅ I use cloud-based patch management tools like Microsoft Intune or Tanium, which‬

iq
‭allow remote patching without requiring VPN connectivity.‬

dd
‭8.2 What steps do you take if a patch causes application failures?‬

‭✅ I immediately initiate rollback procedures, perform root cause analysis, collaborate‬

Si
‭with vendors, and apply hotfixes while ensuring minimal downtime.‬

n
‭8.3 How do you patch endpoints that are no longer supported by the vendor?‬
aa
‭✅ I implement security compensating controls like network segmentation, endpoint‬
Am

‭hardening, and Virtual Patching using Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS).‬

‭8.4 How do you measure patching compliance and security effectiveness?‬


ad

‭✅ I generate compliance reports using SCCM, WSUS, or Qualys, tracking metrics like‬
‭Patch Success Rate, Mean Time to Patch (MTTP), and Unpatched Vulnerability Count.‬
m

‭9. Incident Management & Problem-Solving Scenarios‬


am

‭9.1 A critical security patch is failing on multiple endpoints. How do you troubleshoot‬
‭it?‬
oh

‭✅ I check installation logs, verify prerequisites, diagnose error codes, test manual‬
‭installations, and escalate to vendors if needed.‬
‭M

‭9.2 You discover a major discrepancy in IT asset records. How do you fix it?‬

‭✅ I conduct a full audit, compare physical inventory with ITAM records, and correct‬
‭discrepancies while implementing automation to prevent future mismatches.‬

‭9.3 A department refuses to apply a critical patch because it may disrupt operations.‬
‭How do you handle it?‬
‭✅ I engage with stakeholders, provide risk assessments, schedule patches during‬
‭non-peak hours, and ensure rollback strategies to mitigate concerns.‬

‭10. ITIL & Best Practices Questions‬

‭10.1 How do you implement Change Management in IT Asset and Patch‬


‭Management?‬


ui
‭✅ I submit Change Requests, perform risk analysis, schedule maintenance windows,‬

iq
‭document changes, and obtain approvals before deploying patches.‬

dd
‭10.2 How do you ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks like ISO 27001 or‬
‭NIST?‬

Si
‭✅ By maintaining an updated IT asset inventory, enforcing patching SLAs, conducting‬
‭periodic audits, and aligning policies with compliance guidelines.‬

n
aa
‭10.3 How do you handle software license audits from vendors like Microsoft or‬
‭Adobe?‬
Am

‭✅ I proactively maintain license documentation, ensure software usage compliance,‬


‭and collaborate with vendors to avoid non-compliance penalties.‬
ad

‭11. Behavioral & Situational Questions‬

‭11.1 Can you describe a situation where you had to handle a critical IT security‬
m

‭incident?‬
am

‭✅ During the WannaCry ransomware outbreak, I identified vulnerable endpoints,‬


‭deployed emergency patches, and implemented firewall restrictions within 24 hours,‬
‭preventing an attack.‬
oh

‭11.2 How do you manage competing priorities in IT Asset and Patch Management?‬
‭M

‭✅ I prioritize based on impact, urgency, and compliance requirements, using ITSM‬


‭tools like ServiceNow to track SLAs and resource allocation.‬

‭11.3 How do you train employees on IT asset policies and patching best practices?‬

‭✅ I conduct periodic security awareness sessions, share best practices through email‬
‭campaigns, and provide hands-on training on patch compliance tools.‬
‭12. Advanced IT Asset Management (ITAM) Questions‬

‭12.1 How do you track and manage IT assets in a hybrid (on-prem & cloud)‬
‭environment‬‭?‬

‭✅ I use ITAM tools like ServiceNow or Flexera to track physical assets and cloud-based‬
‭resources (AWS, Azure). Integration with CMDB ensures visibility of asset dependencies.‬


ui
‭12.2 What challenges have you faced in IT asset disposal, and how did you resolve‬

iq
‭them?‬

dd
‭✅ I’ve managed secure data wiping challenges by implementing automated degaussing‬
‭and ensuring compliance with e-waste disposal regulations (ISO 14001, NIST 800-88).‬

Si
‭12.3 How do you handle IT asset procurement and vendor management?‬

n
‭✅ I collaborate with vendors, negotiate bulk pricing, track purchase orders, and ensure‬
aa
‭contract compliance, optimizing procurement costs by 15-20%.‬

‭12.4 What steps do you take to prevent IT asset theft or loss?‬


Am

‭✅ I implement physical security controls (RFID tags, CCTV monitoring), enforce‬


‭role-based access control, and conduct quarterly audits to detect discrepancies.‬
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‭13. Advanced Endpoint Patching & Security Questions‬


m

‭13.1 How do you handle patches that require system reboots in a production‬
‭environment?‬
am

‭✅ I schedule reboots during non-business hours, use maintenance windows in‬


‭SCCM/Intune, and notify users in advance to avoid disruptions.‬
oh

‭13.2 How do you manage third-party application patching (e.g., Adobe, Java, Zoom)?‬
‭M

‭✅ I use tools like Patch My PC, Ivanti, or SCCM’s SCUP to automate third-party software‬
‭updates while ensuring minimal user impact.‬

‭13.3 How do you ensure patching compliance for regulatory frameworks like PCI DSS,‬
‭HIPAA, or NIST?‬
‭✅ I enforce automated patching SLAs, generate compliance reports, and ensure audit‬
‭readiness by keeping patching logs for regulatory reviews.‬
‭13.4 What are the risks of auto-approving all patches, and how do you mitigate‬
‭them?‬

‭✅ Auto-approving patches without testing can cause system failures. I mitigate risks by‬
‭testing patches in a sandbox environment and using phased rollouts.‬

‭14. Advanced Incident Management & Troubleshooting Questions‬


ui
‭14.1 A patch deployment failed across multiple devices. How do you diagnose the‬

iq
‭issue?‬

dd
‭✅ I check SCCM logs (Patchdownloader.log, WUAHandler.log), verify network‬
‭connectivity, and manually test patch installations before re-deploying.‬

Si
‭14.2 A critical server is unpatched due to application compatibility issues. What do‬
‭you do?‬

n
aa
‭✅ I apply compensating controls like network segmentation, virtual patching (IPS/IDS),‬
‭and coordinate with vendors to obtain a compatible patch.‬
Am

‭14.3 How do you respond to an unpatched zero-day vulnerability with no immediate‬


‭fix?‬
ad

‭✅ I implement temporary mitigations like disabling affected services, enhancing‬


‭firewall rules, and monitoring threat intelligence sources for updates.‬
m

‭14.4 What actions would you take if a patch disrupted business-critical operations?‬
am

‭✅ I roll back the patch using SCCM/System Restore, perform impact analysis, and work‬
‭with the vendor for a revised patch while implementing interim security measures.‬
oh

‭15. ITIL & Best Practices in Asset & Patch Management‬


‭M

‭15.1 How do you implement ITIL Change Management in patch deployment?‬

‭✅ I classify patches as standard/emergency changes, conduct impact analysis, get CAB‬


‭approvals, and use change records in ITSM tools like ServiceNow or BMC Remedy.‬

‭15.2 How do you manage service downtime during patching?‬


‭✅ I communicate scheduled downtimes in advance, use load balancing for critical‬
‭systems, and enable rollback plans to ensure business continuity.‬

‭15.3 What is Mean Time to Patch (MTTP), and why is it important?‬

‭✅ MTTP measures how quickly a patch is deployed after release. A lower MTTP ensures‬
‭faster vulnerability mitigation and better security posture.‬


ui
‭15.4 How do you handle patch management in highly regulated industries like‬

iq
‭banking or healthcare?‬

dd
‭✅ I ensure strict patching SLAs, maintain audit logs for compliance, and work closely‬
‭with risk teams to align patching schedules with regulatory requirements.‬

Si
‭16. Behavioral & Situational Questions‬

n
‭16.1 Tell me about a time you had to convince leadership to approve an IT security‬
‭investment.‬
aa
‭✅ I built a business case showing cost-benefit analysis, industry benchmarks, and risk‬
Am

‭mitigation strategies, securing approval for an automated patch management tool.‬

‭16.2 Describe a situation where you successfully reduced IT asset costs.‬


ad

‭✅ By implementing automated asset tracking, I identified unused assets and saved‬


‭$50,000 annually in unnecessary procurement.‬
m

‭16.3 How do you handle resistance from employees reluctant to follow IT asset‬
am

‭policies?‬

‭✅ I educate employees on security risks, provide alternative solutions, and involve‬


oh

‭leadership to enforce compliance with company policies.‬


‭M

‭16.4 How do you ensure that IT asset management aligns with business goals?‬

‭✅ By collaborating with stakeholders, analyzing IT spending, and optimizing asset‬


‭utilization, ensuring alignment with cost-efficiency and security objectives.‬

‭17. Industry Trends & Continuous Learning Questions‬

‭17.1 What are the latest trends in IT asset management and patching?‬
‭✅ Key trends include AI-driven asset tracking, Zero Trust security models, automated‬
‭vulnerability remediation, and cloud-based patch management.‬

‭17.2 How do you keep yourself updated with the latest vulnerabilities and security‬
‭patches?‬

‭✅ I monitor security feeds like CVE, NIST, Microsoft Patch Tuesday, and attend‬


ui
‭cybersecurity webinars and vendor training sessions.‬

iq
‭17.3 Have you worked with AI-driven IT asset management tools?‬

dd
‭✅ Yes, I’ve used AI-based anomaly detection in asset tracking, improving fraud‬
‭detection and asset utilization rates by 25%.‬

Si
‭17.4 What’s your experience with blockchain in IT asset tracking?‬

n
‭✅ Blockchain ensures tamper-proof asset records, enhancing audit compliance and‬
aa
‭preventing asset fraud.‬
Am

‭Why is ITAM Important for an Organization?‬


ad

‭✅‬‭Cost Optimization‬‭– Helps control IT spending by‬‭eliminating unnecessary‬


‭purchases and optimizing asset utilization.‬
‭✅‬‭Asset Tracking & Visibility‬‭– Provides real-time‬‭visibility into asset location,‬
m

‭ownership, and status.‬


‭✅‬‭Compliance & Audits‬‭– Ensures compliance with software‬‭licensing agreements,‬
am

‭industry regulations (ISO 27001, GDPR), and internal policies.‬


‭✅‬‭Security & Risk Management‬‭– Reduces security risks‬‭by tracking asset‬
‭vulnerabilities and ensuring timely updates/patches.‬
oh

‭✅‬‭Lifecycle Management‬‭– Manages assets from procurement‬‭to retirement, ensuring‬


‭timely upgrades and disposal.‬
‭M

‭✅‬‭Incident & Change Management‬‭– Supports IT service‬‭management (ITSM)‬


‭processes by linking assets to incidents and changes.‬

‭1️⃣ What is Patch Management, and Why is it Critical for IT Security?‬

‭Patch management‬‭is the process of acquiring, testing,‬‭and applying software updates‬


‭to systems, applications, and network devices. It is critical for IT security because:‬
‭✔‬‭Closes security vulnerabilities‬‭to prevent cyberattacks.‬
‭✔‬‭Enhances system performance‬‭by fixing bugs and improving‬‭stability.‬
‭✔‬‭Ensures compliance‬‭with industry regulations (ISO‬‭27001, HIPAA).‬
‭✔‬‭Reduces downtime‬‭by proactively addressing system‬‭flaws before exploitation.‬

‭2️⃣ What are the Key Steps in the Patch Management Process?‬


ui
‭1️⃣‬‭Patch Identification‬‭– Monitor sources like Microsoft,‬‭CISA, NIST for new patches.‬

iq
‭2️⃣‬‭Risk Assessment‬‭– Evaluate the impact and urgency‬‭of the patch.‬
‭3️⃣‬‭Testing‬‭– Deploy patches in a sandbox/test environment‬‭to check for compatibility.‬

dd
‭4️⃣‬‭Approval & Scheduling‬‭– Plan patch rollouts based‬‭on business hours.‬
‭5️⃣‬‭Deployment‬‭– Roll out patches in a phased manner‬‭(e.g., critical systems first).‬
‭6️⃣‬‭Verification‬‭– Ensure successful installation‬‭using logs and compliance reports.‬

Si
‭7️⃣‬‭Monitoring & Rollback‬‭– Track post-deployment‬‭issues and revert if needed.‬

n
aa
‭3️⃣ How Do You Prioritize Patches When Multiple Updates Are Released?‬
Am

‭I prioritize patches based on:‬


‭🔹‬‭Severity Level‬‭– Critical security patches come‬‭first.‬
‭🔹‬‭Exploitability‬‭– If actively exploited (zero-day),‬‭immediate action is required.‬
‭🔹‬‭Business Impact‬‭– Ensuring critical applications‬‭remain functional.‬
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‭🔹‬‭Compliance Requirements‬‭– Updates necessary for‬‭industry regulations.‬

‭Example:‬‭During the Log4j vulnerability crisis, I‬‭coordinated an emergency patch‬


m

‭deployment within 24 hours, securing critical systems before exploitation.‬


am

‭4️⃣ What Tools Have You Used for Patch Deployment?‬


oh

‭I have hands-on experience with:‬


‭✅‬‭Microsoft SCCM (ConfigMgr)‬‭– Windows patching &‬‭reporting.‬
‭✅‬‭WSUS (Windows Server Update Services)‬‭– Windows‬‭updates management.‬
‭M

‭✅‬‭Ivanti Patch Manager‬‭– Automated patching for Windows/macOS.‬


‭✅‬‭BigFix / ManageEngine / Tanium‬‭– Multi-platform‬‭patching and endpoint‬
‭compliance.‬
‭✅‬‭Qualys / Nessus‬‭– Vulnerability scanning to identify‬‭missing patches.‬

‭5️⃣ How Do You Handle a Failed Patch Deployment on an Endpoint?‬


‭When a patch fails to install, I follow these steps:‬
‭1️⃣‬‭Check Error Codes & Logs‬‭– Analyze Windows Event‬‭Viewer (‬‭ ‭), SCCM logs,‬
eventvwr‬
‭or‬‭
/var/log‬‭for failure details.‬
‭2️⃣‬‭Validate Network & Permissions‬‭– Ensure endpoints‬‭can reach patch servers.‬
‭3️⃣‬‭Reapply the Patch Manually‬‭– Use PowerShell (‬‭
wmic‬‭ ‭) or GUI.‬
qfe install‬
‭4️⃣‬‭Use Alternate Deployment Method‬‭– WSUS, standalone‬‭MSI packages, or scripts.‬
‭5️⃣‬‭Escalate if Needed‬‭– Work with vendors for troubleshooting‬‭and hotfixes.‬


ui
iq
‭6️⃣ What is the Difference Between Security Patches, Feature Updates, and Hotfixes?‬

dd
‭🔹‬‭Security Patches‬‭– Address vulnerabilities (e.g.,‬‭CVE fixes).‬
‭🔹‬‭Feature Updates‬‭– Introduce new functionalities‬‭(e.g., Windows 11 upgrade).‬
‭🔹‬‭Hotfixes‬‭– Emergency fixes for critical bugs without‬‭a full update cycle.‬

Si
‭Example:‬

n
‭●‬ ‭Security Patch:‬‭Fix for PrintNightmare vulnerability.‬
aa
‭●‬ ‭Feature Update:‬‭Windows 10 21H2 update.‬
‭●‬ ‭Hotfix:‬‭Microsoft releasing KB5004945 to fix an emergency‬‭bug.‬
Am

‭7️⃣ How Do You Ensure That Patching Does Not Disrupt Business Operations?‬
ad

‭✔‬‭Schedule Downtime Windows‬‭– Deploy patches during‬‭non-business hours.‬


‭✔‬‭Phased Rollout Approach‬‭– Test on pilot groups before‬‭full deployment.‬
‭✔‬‭Use Maintenance Windows‬‭– SCCM and WSUS allow controlled‬‭installations.‬
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‭✔‬‭Rollback Plans‬‭– Always have a backup and uninstallation‬‭method ready.‬


‭✔‬‭Application Compatibility Testing‬‭– Validate patch‬‭impact before deployment.‬
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‭8️⃣ What is a Zero-Day Vulnerability, and How Do You Manage Patches for Such‬
‭Threats?‬
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‭A‬‭zero-day vulnerability‬‭is a security flaw that is‬‭exploited before a patch is available.‬


‭📌‬‭Managing Zero-Day Patches:‬
‭✅‬‭Monitor Threat Intelligence‬‭– NIST, CISA, and vendor‬‭advisories.‬
‭✅‬‭Apply Temporary Mitigations‬‭– Disable vulnerable‬‭services, restrict firewall rules.‬
‭✅‬‭Deploy Emergency Patches‬‭– As soon as vendors release a fix.‬
‭✅‬‭Continuous Monitoring‬‭– SIEM tools (Splunk, QRadar)‬‭to detect suspicious activity.‬

‭Example:‬‭During the PrintNightmare zero-day exploit, I implemented registry changes‬


‭and restricted Print Spooler service before Microsoft released an official patch.‬
‭9️⃣ How Do You Verify Whether a Patch Has Been Successfully Applied to an‬
‭Endpoint?‬

‭✔‬‭Patch Management Console‬‭– Check SCCM, WSUS, or‬‭BigFix compliance reports.‬


‭✔‬‭Event Viewer Logs‬‭– Look for Event ID 19 (successful‬‭update) in‬‭ ‭.‬
eventvwr‬
‭✔‬‭Command Line Checks:‬


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‭📌‬‭Windows:‬

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‭powershell‬
‭CopyEdit‬

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wmic qfe list | findstr "KBXXXXXX"‬

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‭📌‬‭Linux:‬

‭bash‬

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‭CopyEdit‬ aa
rpm -qa | grep <patch_name>‬

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‭✔‬‭System Build Number‬‭–‬‭


winver‬‭for Windows,‬‭ -r‬‭for Linux.‬
uname‬‭
‭✔‬‭End-User Validation‬‭– Verify application stability‬‭post-patching.‬
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‭🔟 What Steps Would You Take If a Patch Causes Compatibility Issues with an‬
‭Application?‬
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‭1️⃣‬‭Identify Affected Systems‬‭– Using ITAM tools like‬‭ServiceNow or SCCM.‬


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‭2️⃣‬‭Roll Back the Patch‬‭– Uninstall the update via‬‭Windows Update or‬‭
wusa‬
‭.‬
/uninstall /kb:xxxxxx‬

‭3️⃣‬‭Apply Temporary Workarounds‬‭– Registry changes,‬‭group policies, or alternate‬
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‭settings.‬
‭4️⃣‬‭Contact Vendor for a Fix‬‭– Check if a hotfix or‬‭compatible version is available.‬
‭5️⃣‬‭Update Testing Process‬‭– Improve pre-deployment‬‭testing strategies to prevent‬
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‭future issues.‬

‭___________________________________________________________________________________________________‬
‭1.‬ ‭1.1 How do you ensure IT asset data accuracy in your organization?‬
‭2.‬ ‭1.2 How do you manage the full lifecycle of IT assets?‬
‭3.‬ ‭1.3 How do you handle software license management and compliance?‬
‭4.‬ ‭2.1 How do you ensure timely and effective patch management?‬
‭5.‬ ‭2.2 How do you prioritize patches when multiple updates are released?‬
‭6.‬ ‭2.3 How do you handle patch failures or rollbacks?‬
‭7.‬ ‭3.1 How do you handle zero-day vulnerability patches?‬
‭8.‬ ‭4.1 How do you apply ITIL principles to asset and patch management?‬
‭9.‬ ‭5.1 Tell me about a time you improved an ITAM or patching process‬‭.‬
‭10.‬ ‭5.2 How do you handle resistance from employees who delay patch updates?‬


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‭11.‬ ‭6.1 How do you stay updated with the latest trends in IT asset and patch‬
‭management?‬

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‭12.‬ ‭7.1 How do you manage IT asset depreciation and financial reporting?‬
‭13.‬ ‭7.2 How do you handle hardware refresh cycles and optimize asset utilization?‬

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‭14.‬ ‭7.3 How do you prevent unauthorized software installations and shadow IT?‬
‭15.‬ ‭7.4 What are the key differences between IT Asset Management (ITAM) and‬
‭Configuration Management (CMDB)?‬

Si
‭16.‬ ‭8.1 How do you handle patching for remote employees and off-network‬
‭devices?‬

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‭17.‬ ‭8.2 What steps do you take if a patch causes application failures?‬
aa
‭18.‬ ‭8.3 How do you patch endpoints that are no longer supported by the vendor?‬
‭19.‬ ‭8.4 How do you measure patching compliance and security effectiveness?‬
‭20.‬ ‭9.1 A critical security patch is failing on multiple endpoints. How do you‬
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‭troubleshoot it?‬
‭21.‬ ‭9.2 You discover a major discrepancy in IT asset records. How do you fix it?‬
‭22.‬ ‭9.3 A department refuses to apply a critical patch because it may disrupt‬
‭operations. How do you handle it?‬
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‭23.‬ ‭10.1 How do you implement Change Management in IT Asset and Patch‬
‭Management?‬
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‭24.‬ ‭10.2 How do you ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks like ISO‬
‭27001 or NIST?‬
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‭25.‬ ‭10.3 How do you handle software license audits from vendors like Microsoft or‬
‭Adobe?‬
‭26.‬ ‭11.1 Can you describe a situation where you had to handle a critical IT security‬
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‭incident?‬
‭27.‬ ‭11.2 How do you manage competing priorities in IT Asset and Patch‬
‭Management?‬
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‭28.‬ ‭12.1 How do you track and manage IT assets in a hybrid (on-prem & cloud)‬
‭environment‬‭?‬
‭29.‬ ‭12.2 What challenges have you faced in IT asset disposal, and how did you‬
‭resolve them?‬
‭30.‬ ‭12.3 How do you handle IT asset procurement and vendor management?‬
‭31.‬ ‭12.4 What steps do you take to prevent IT asset theft or loss?‬
‭32.‬ ‭13.1 How do you handle patches that require system reboots in a production‬
‭environment?‬
‭33.‬ ‭13.2 How do you manage third-party application patching (e.g., Adobe, Java,‬
‭Zoom)?‬
‭34.‬ ‭13.3 How do you ensure patching compliance for regulatory frameworks like‬
‭PCI DSS, HIPAA, or NIST?‬
‭35.‬ ‭13.4 What are the risks of auto-approving all patches, and how do you mitigate‬
‭them?‬
‭36.‬ ‭14.1 A patch deployment failed across multiple devices. How do you diagnose‬


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‭the issue?‬
‭37.‬ ‭14.2 A critical server is unpatched due to application compatibility issues.‬

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‭What do you do?‬
‭38.‬ ‭14.3 How do you respond to an unpatched zero-day vulnerability with no‬

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‭immediate fix?‬
‭39.‬ ‭14.4 What actions would you take if a patch disrupted business-critical‬
‭operations?‬

Si
‭40.‬ ‭15.1 How do you implement ITIL Change Management in patch deployment?‬
‭41.‬ ‭15.2 How do you manage service downtime during patching?‬

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‭42.‬ ‭15.3 What is Mean Time to Patch (MTTP), and why is it important?‬
aa
‭43.‬ ‭15.4 How do you handle patch management in highly regulated industries like‬
‭banking or healthcare?‬
‭44.‬ ‭16.1 Tell me about a time you had to convince leadership to approve an IT‬
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‭security investment.‬
‭45.‬ ‭16.2 Describe a situation where you successfully reduced IT asset costs.‬
‭46.‬ ‭16.3 How do you handle resistance from employees reluctant to follow IT asset‬
‭policies?‬
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‭47.‬ ‭16.4 How do you ensure that IT asset management aligns with business goals?‬
‭48.‬ ‭17.1 What are the latest trends in IT asset management and patching?‬
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‭49.‬ ‭17.2 How do you keep yourself updated with the latest vulnerabilities and‬
‭security patches?‬
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‭50.‬ ‭17.3 Have you worked with AI-driven IT asset management tools?‬
‭51.‬ ‭17.4 What’s your experience with blockchain in IT asset tracking?‬
‭52.‬ ‭Why is ITAM Important for an Organization?‬
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‭53.‬ ‭What are the Key Steps in the Patch Management Process?‬
‭54.‬ ‭How Do You Prioritize Patches When Multiple Updates Are Released?‬
‭55.‬ ‭What Tools Have You Used for Patch Deployment?‬
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‭56.‬ ‭How Do You Handle a Failed Patch Deployment on an Endpoint?‬


‭57.‬ ‭What is the Difference Between Security Patches, Feature Updates, and‬
‭Hotfixes?‬
‭58.‬ ‭How Do You Ensure That Patching Does Not Disrupt Business Operations?‬
‭59.‬ ‭What is a Zero-Day Vulnerability, and How Do You Manage Patches for Such‬
‭Threats?‬
‭60.‬ ‭How Do You Verify Whether a Patch Has Been Successfully Applied to an‬
‭Endpoint?‬
‭61.‬ ‭What Steps Would You Take If a Patch Causes Compatibility Issues with an‬
‭Application?‬
‭62.‬


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iq
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n
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