What is the fastest method for an administrator to apply a critical security patch across servers?

Using configuration management scripts to include the latest patch and subsequently executing them represents the fastest method for an administrator to apply a critical security patch across servers. Configuration management tools, such as Ansible, Puppet, or Chef, allow for automated management of system configurations, which can significantly streamline the patching process.

This approach is particularly efficient because it eliminates the need for manual intervention on each server. Instead of logging into each server individually or shutting down servers to provision new ones, the update can be rolled out simultaneously across all managed servers in just a few commands, ensuring that all systems are updated consistently and rapidly.

Additionally, configuration management scripts can often incorporate checks to ensure that systems are in compliance with security standards, thus providing both speed and reliability. This method helps maintain both operational continuity and security without the unnecessary downtime that might result from the other options.