How VLCM and Syxsense patch management energized EPB of Chattanooga's cybersecurity

Enter VLCM, represented by their Account Manager, Braxton Byrge. "Our first encounter with EPB was through cold outreach," Byrge recalled. "They're a leading electric power and internet provider in the state, but even giants can face hurdles. When it came to cybersecurity, they were eager for a solution that could truly safeguard their IT environment."

Byrge and VLCM's Cybersecurity Consultant Team identified a specific pain point—patch management. Patch management refers to the process of handling updates for software applications and technologies. Patches are crucial to plug vulnerabilities and guard against cyber threats. However, the process can be labor-intensive and time-consuming without the right tool. EPB had a patch management tool in place, but it was a less effective and more time-consuming product than initially anticipated.

"EPB was struggling with a product that was frustrating and not fulfilling their needs,” said Byrge,” They were spending hours doing tasks they didn't have to, diverting their attention from critical operations. They needed a solution, and that's where Syxsense came in."

Syxsense is a leading Unified Security and Endpoint Management (USEM) solution that delivers real-time monitoring and intelligent automation for vulnerability management, patch management, and security remediation in a single console. With capabilities like automated patching for Windows, Mac, and Linux endpoints and even third-party applications, Syxsense ensures systems are consistently updated and protected against known vulnerabilities. Its features provide pre- and post-deployment automation, offering flexibility to suit each organization's unique needs. This level of automation and control significantly reduces the burden on IT staff and minimizes disruption to operations.

Moreover, Syxsense's patch management works seamlessly with other functionalities, including IT operations and vulnerability scanning, forming an integrated, proactive approach to an organization's cybersecurity efforts. It was, therefore, the ideal recommendation from VLCM's cybersecurity consultants. It integrated seamlessly with EPB's existing systems, effectively dealing with vulnerabilities, managing patches, and drastically reducing manual IT work.

"The impact was immediate," said Braxton, "our collaboration resulted in a swift implementation. From start to finish, it took about a month and a half. EPB was impressed by Syxsense during the trial, so much so that they specifically wrote VLCM and Syxsense into their Request For Proposal (RFP). Winning the RFP was a big win for us."

Why VLCM? Braxton believes it's their approach. "Our team doesn't just push products. We strive to understand the needs of our clients and serve as trusted advisors. We're more consultants than salespeople. I think this philosophy played a big role in winning EPB's trust."

The partnership has been a resounding success. "The winning metric for this project is that it saves the IT team time," Braxton stated. "Before, they were spending off-hours dealing with an insufficient patch management tool. Now, they don't have to do that anymore. The frustration levels have plummeted, and they can focus on more strategic tasks."

The VLCM and EPB story highlights the power of cybersecurity expertise, an understanding of client needs, and the application of the right tools, particularly the transformative impact of effective patch management using Syxsense. "It's about being a trusted advisor, not just a sales rep," Braxton emphasized. "That's why clients like EPB choose us."

For organizations seeking cybersecurity solutions and trusted advice, VLCM stands ready to assist. "If your cybersecurity needs aren't being fully met, or if you're spending too much time on tasks that should be automated, it's time to have a conversation," says Braxton. "Reach out to us at VLCM. Let's talk about how we can help secure your IT environment, just like we did for EPB."

VLCM is just a call or click away, prepared to serve as a guiding hand in your journey to cybersecurity.

Read more about how VLCM Gets IT Right for its clients by visiting www.vlcm.com/customer-success.

Engage with a Cybersecurity Expert at VLCM

Entrust your digital defense to VLCM for robust cybersecurity solutions within your budget and resources. Our team is ready to assist you with:

• Evaluating your current cybersecurity posture to identify potential vulnerabilities or areas for improvement
• Conducting a comprehensive audit of your existing cyber defense systems to pinpoint gaps or inefficiencies
• Designing and deploying a cybersecurity strategy tailored to your specific requirements and constraints
• Offering continual support and maintenance to ensure your cybersecurity measures are always reliable, efficient, and up-to-date.

To start your journey to cybersecurity resilience, submit the form on your right. Following your form submission, VLCM will:

• Contact you via your preferred method of communication within one business day
• Schedule a virtual or in-person meeting with a member of our team