A risk and vulnerability assessment, also known as a vulnerability scan, is the process of analyzing networks or IT assets to identify security threats, risks, or weaknesses that need to be addressed. These scans help businesses find gaps in their security protocols and ensure they can quickly implement a solution before cybercriminals find these gaps.
Exploitation of vulnerabilities is the second most common cyberattack after phishing scams. To keep your business safe, consistent and continuous vulnerability assessments will keep your business safe. That’s why vulnerability assessments should always be considered when creating cybersecurity strategies.
Understanding the importance of vulnerability scans is important, but how do you know which type of scan you need? Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about vulnerability scanning.
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What is vulnerability scanning used for?
A vulnerability scan detects and assesses security issues within an IT system, network, or software. This automated process regularly searches systems for known security vulnerabilities, such as missing updates, misconfigurations, or unprotected information.
The process of a vulnerability scan can uncover common issues such as:
- Networks: Any open ports, weak passwords, fragile firewalls, unauthorized access or connections.
- Systems: Outdated software, exposed operating systems, or missing patches.
- Applications: Security issues, cross-site scripting, or misconfigured settings.
- Cloud specific: Misconfigured cloud services and incorrect identity access or authentication.
The vulnerability uncovered will depend on the type of scan and whether it was an internal or external assessment. When choosing the type of scan you wish to conduct, consider the problem you want to investigate. Some scan types include network, application, and database, which we will cover below.
2 types of vulnerability scanning
The two main types of vulnerability scanning are active scanning, also known as non-credential scanning, and passive scanning, or credential scanning. Each type of scan looks for different security issues to help your team find a solution before a cyberattack occurs.
Active scanning: This type of scan sends simulated attacks, inquiries, or requests to the target to identify potential vulnerabilities.
Passive scanning: A credential scan will discreetly examine network traffic to detect any vulnerabilities that cybercriminals may exploit to spread malware or steal sensitive information.
Aside from these main two scan types, there can be different risk assessments depending on specific use cases, such as:
- Network vulnerability scanning
- Web application scanning
- Database scanning
- Host scanning
- Container virtualized environment scanning
The ability to scan for these different types of issues will allow your IT team to examine a concern in greater detail.
Vulnerability scanning vs. penetration testing
Vulnerability scanning is an automated process that finds weaknesses in your security systems to manage these issues quickly. These scans happen frequently, even daily if necessary, and require little input from the IT team. They require minimal downtime – taking between one and 72 hours to complete – and will list out all of the potential vulnerabilities that were found.
Penetration testing is a manual process that can take several weeks. The IT team must manage it, and it should be done at least once a year. This type of testing is only possible when a real-world simulated attack is placed on your system, which means it will be more intrusive.
The decision to choose vulnerability scanning or penetration testing depends on your business’s needs. If you need a cost-effective, fast, and automated way to frequently identify potential security risks in your system, vulnerability scanning is the right choice. On the other hand, penetration testing could be worth the time and effort needed to fully understand the issue if your business is investigating the severity of a known vulnerability.
Reduce security threats and vulnerabilities with Applied Tech
Outsourcing vulnerability scanning and ongoing vulnerability management will allow your business to leverage expert support in cybersecurity. With a team of IT experts, we can help you proactively find, assess, and defend against potential vulnerabilities in your IT system. Outsourcing these services also creates a more cost-effective way for your business to access vulnerability scans without hiring or training employees to handle them.
With the experienced knowledge of Applied Tech professionals, your business can effectively scan for vulnerabilities while avoiding common issues like false positives, alert fatigue, or improper risk management. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help with vulnerability scanning. Applied Tech is here to ensure your business runs smoothly so you can focus on productivity.
About Applied Tech
Applied Tech is a leading IT and cybersecurity services provider dedicated to helping businesses protect their digital assets. Our proactive and strategic services include cloud management, security, productivity, and IT growth strategy. With a team of experienced professionals, we provide unique solutions tailored to your IT needs.
Protect your business with Applied Tech’s fully managed IT services, co-managed support, and security assistance. With IT services focused on your business goals, keep your team productive and your data secure.
