Vulnerability Scanning: Identifying Data Security Weaknesses
Oftentimes when running a business, you may have data on the network that is sensitive or confidential. It could be catastrophic if this data was lost or stolen. Keep the network as secure as possible with no security holes or weaknesses by scanning your environment regularly.
So, what is a vulnerability scan?
Vulnerability scanning is automated scanning that will look at each device on the network and proactively identify possible issues or concerns. The automated scan actively looks for network, application and security vulnerabilities and is usually added to a report for viewing. When an attacker gains access to a network, they will also use this type of scan to look for any holes they can exploit.
Once all the vulnerabilities are detected on the network and added to the report, they will be organized into types of weaknesses. These weaknesses identify the security holes in your network. Usually, an IT company will perform these scans and interpret the results. Then, they will come up with a plan of action on how to fix these issues.
There is a database of issues that the scanner will scan your network against, known as CVE database or common vulnerabilities and exploits. This is updated regularly when new exploits are found and helps find the issues an attacker might want to use against you. These scans are for internal use and will not scan your external network.
External vulnerability scanning will look at the devices outside of your local network, like a router or maybe a public server to which you have access. This will usually scan for open ports and let you know which ones anyone else could also access.
If you are looking to harden the defenses of your network, then vulnerability scanning is an important step to achieve this. Schedule a scan today and talk with your IT company to make sure you are getting the most out of your scans to maintain a secure network.
Anthony has been in the MSP business since before the acronym existed. Managed IT once started as break-fix solutions and some light phone support.
Since then, he has seen the industry flourish into a landscape of platforms, cloud servers, software tools and AI . Tailoring network configurations and software stacks to the specific needs of each business.
In his current role, he focuses on proactive planning, ensuring clients can avoid potential issues altogether. This involves meticulous planning for enhanced business continuity, allowing swift resolution of any unforeseen challenges. What initially began as addressing "fires" through break-fix solutions has evolved into a proactive approach, ensuring that such issues are prevented from arising in the first place.
