Vulnerability Scanning Tips and Best Practices

Vulnerability scanning is a method of discovering weaknesses, security openings, and unreliable access passages in computers and networks. While vulnerability scanning is generally centered on web frameworks, firewall frameworks within secure interior systems can also be scanned.

Vulnerability scanning is an automated process utilizing unique instruments to assess the security assurance status of system resources. In a world where attackers work quickly to exploit vulnerable systems, security insurance is crucial for modern businesses. 

It is important to note the difference between vulnerability scanning and penetration testing. Vulnerability scanning finds the framework’s security openings, while pen-testing purposefully targets those gaps to access those frameworks.

Scan Each Device That Contacts The Ecosystem

Neglecting to check each device and passageway leaves systems and frameworks open to attacks, so identifying all potential shortcomings in a system is vital. Examining all benefits inside the ecosystem uncovers the different vulnerabilities inside the foundation. Furthermore, keep track of all devices attached to the system and their capacity. This will help keep track of inventory and provides a checklist of all the devices that need to be scanned.

Scan as Often as Possible

The time between vulnerability scans leaves frameworks open to new vulnerabilities. Implementing a weekly, monthly, or quarterly scan is recommended. Two variables to consider when selecting the frequency of vulnerability scanning devices are a system’s design and the devices’ impact on the network.

Assign Owners to Critical Assets

Responsibility for every asset depends on the distribution list of the asset owners. Determine who is responsible for keeping each device running and identify those impacted if a device is compromised. Remember, asset owners are not constrained to specialized groups, and there should be someone responsible for every system.

Organize the Patching Process

Organizing doesn’t mean dismissing; it is a time-management practice that is required because of asset constraints. Therefore, concentrate on resources that impose the highest risks to the organization. Fixing web devices for every vulnerability found should be a higher priority than patching similar devices that have been obstructed by settings or firewalls.

Record All Scans and Their Results

Each vulnerability scan should be scheduled using a tracker which includes a review procedure, detailing the vulnerability scan’s results. The timetable allows organizations to identify vulnerability patterns and commence repeat scans that reveal jeopardized frameworks. Reports should be digestible so most individuals at the company can understand the results.

Build Up a Remediation Procedure

The remediation procedure should explicitly state the severity of each weakness found, as well as the expected time it will take to be resolved. This is determined by looking at the vulnerability scan’s results and the priority assigned to each device. The remediation procedure should be documented as a component of the six-step framework.

The next time your company is planning on performing a vulnerability scan, consult these six steps to ensure a successful test. Interested in learning how Quantilus can help your small to medium-sized business with vulnerability scanning? Contact us at info@quantilus.com for a consultation to learn how we can help.