Using an automated vulnerability scanner to identify vulnerabilities in your applications has many benefits. But like any automated tool, vulnerability scanners can sometimes provide false positives or negatives. They might also identify outdated versions of software or patches that have not been applied. Some scanners offer manual and automated scanning, are scalable and customizable, and provide metrics to support your security team. Here are the things that you need to know about automated vulnerability scanning.
Changes in the IT Systems
Automated vulnerability scanning can help an organization keep up with constant changes in its IT systems. It can keep track of new and existing systems, such as changing domains and IP addresses. It can also help identify and treat blind spots, which may have been overlooked previously. In addition, automated scanning can take place inside or outside the system, depending on its configuration and segmentation. After receiving the results, management can classify and treat the vulnerabilities accordingly.
Secure Network Infrastructures
Automated vulnerability scanning is a powerful tool for securing network infrastructures. It can detect the presence of vulnerabilities in a wide variety of software without the need to install agents. It also constantly reports on security issues, even if an agent is disconnected from the network.
Save Time and Resources
Automated vulnerability scanning saves organizations time and resources. Many organizations don’t have the staff to scan their systems manually. Using an automated vulnerability scanning tool allows the scanning to be done promptly and can be scheduled to run regularly. It is also faster than manual vulnerability scanning, as an automated scanner can scan large networks within hours or minutes, unlike days or weeks.
Cost-effective
The most important advantage of automated vulnerability scanning is its cost-effectiveness. Small and medium-sized businesses can secure their systems. In addition, automated vulnerability scanners do not require licenses. Instead, they save licenses for active systems.
Active Scans
There are two major types of vulnerability scanning: passive and active. Passive scanning does not directly interact with the targets and focuses on analyzing network traffic to find signs of a security flaw or incorrect configuration. Passive scanning is generally less intrusive than active scanning and may be used in situations where stealth is important.
Companies must decide how often they want to run vulnerability scans. While organizations with a minimal risk may not need frequent scanning, those that would benefit from protection against targeted cyberattacks should run scans more often. Some companies perform scans monthly or quarterly, while others may use them as a hygiene measure rather than a security mechanism.
Adaptive Scanning
Adaptive vulnerability scanning is an important component of a vulnerability management program. It can help you detect and resolve vulnerabilities regularly. In addition, these automated scans can run during off-hours to minimize the disruption to your business. Once they’re complete, you can view the vulnerabilities and determine if they pose a risk to your business.
Adaptive vulnerability scanning is critical because researchers are continuously discovering new vulnerabilities. With the rising number of high-profile breaches, it’s important to assess your network’s risk constantly. You can trigger automated scans of new vulnerabilities with an automated vulnerability scan tool like Adaptive Security.