SolarWinds Patch Manager vs Ivanti Security Controls Comparison: Everything You Need to Know Before Choosing

Ivanti Security Controls is an on-premises security solution that helps organisations detect and prevent cybersecurity threats through patch management, application control and privilege management. Ivanti, a US-based IT software company, developed the product by combining technology from its acquisitions of Shavlik and AppSense, which were respected for patching and application control respectively. The problem it addresses is that unpatched software and uncontrolled applications remain among the most common routes for attackers to gain access to systems, while administrative privileges allow malware to spread and cause damage. Organisations need a way to keep operating systems and third-party applications up to date, restrict unauthorised software and limit privileges without disrupting users. Ivanti Security Controls brings these capabilities together in a unified console, supporting a layered defence strategy aligned with frameworks such as the Australian Signals Directorate’s Essential Eight and CIS controls. Patch management covers Windows, Linux and a wide range of third-party applications, with agent-based and agentless options for physical servers, desktops and virtual machines, including offline virtual machine templates in VMware environments. Administrators can scan for missing patches, deploy updates on schedules, test and roll back where required, and report on compliance. Application control uses trusted ownership and allow-listing to block unauthorised executables, scripts and ransomware, while privilege management lets users perform specific administrative tasks without granting full rights. Additional features include asset inventory, power management and integration with vulnerability scanners and IT service management tools through APIs and PowerShell automation. The solution is deployed on-premises, which suits organisations with air-gapped networks or strict data handling requirements, although Ivanti also offers cloud-based alternatives within its Neurons platform. It is used by enterprises, government agencies, healthcare and financial institutions. Pricing is quote-based and not published in this listing, and no free trial or free version details are provided.