What is the MOST effective approach to enhance security for unsupported software applications?

Isolating unsupported software applications is an effective security measure because it prevents potential vulnerabilities from affecting the broader network or other critical systems. Unsupported applications are no longer receiving updates, which means any known security flaws will remain unpatched and could be exploited by attackers. By isolating these apps, organizations can limit their exposure and reduce the risk of a compromise spreading.

This approach can involve placing unsupported applications on separate networks, using firewalls to limit their interactions with other systems, or employing virtual machines to run them in a controlled environment. Such measures ensure that even if a vulnerability is exploited, the damage is contained and does not affect supported or more critical systems.

While patch management is critical for keeping software secure, it is ineffective in this scenario because unsupported software doesn't receive patches. Ignoring vulnerabilities entirely poses significant risks, and consolidating all systems may lead to increased exposure and difficulty in managing security. Hence, isolation stands out as the most proactive and effective strategy for handling unsupported software.