> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.faronics.com/faronicsdeploy/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.faronics.com/faronicsdeploy/automated-windows-update-approval/patch-scan-heartbeat.md).

# Patch Scan (Using a Policy)

Faronics Deploy runs a patch scan on computers after the Deploy Agent is installed on them. After the initial scan, the Patch Scan Frequency is set to a default of once every 24 hours. (Patch Scans can also be run on-demand, see [Patch Scan (On-Demand)](/faronicsdeploy/manual-windows-updates-approval/patch-scan-on-demand.md) for further info).

### Setting the Patch Scan Frequency

The patch scan frequency can be changed while creating or editing the Policy that the computers are using. 

![Policies View](/files/-MV2izRMS4jBatqCZHdl)

1\. Navigate to the **Policies** tab in the Control Grid.

2\. Select the **CREATE NEW POLICY** drop-down list.

3\. Select **WINDOWS POLICY**.

4\. Enter a **Policy Name**.

![Select a Patch Scan Frequency](/files/-MV2mPN5LWfjtI-2qKVJ)

5\. Scroll down to **Patch Scan Frequency** and use the drop-down menu to change from ‘**Once every 24 hours**’ to ‘**Once every 12 hours**’ or ‘**Once every 6 hours**’.

6\. Click **SAVE**.

{% hint style="info" %}
Note that the Patch Scan Frequency can also be edited in an existing Policy as shown below:
{% endhint %}

![Edit the Patch Scan Frequency in an Existing Policy](/files/-MV2n4InRjC7IKN-n36N)

###