Continuous vulnerability scanning is an automated, real-time process that constantly identifies and addresses security weaknesses on your server. Unlike periodic scans, it provides always-on vigilance, which allows for immediate detection and remediation of new vulnerabilities as they emerge.
How NetSafe® Server Identifies Vulnerabilities
Continuous vulnerability scanning works by using specialized software that operates in an "always-on" mode to monitor an organization's IT environment, including:
- Perimeter Scanning: Actively hunting for exposed ports, misconfigured services, and other entry points that an attacker could exploit.
- Network Assessment: Performing deep scans of your internal networks.
- Asset Discovery: Automatically detecting and cataloging all applications and potential entry points across your network.
- Cloud Service Detection: Identifying "shadow IT" and authorized cloud applications with a high degree of accuracy.
This process is supported by constant updates from sources like the NIST National Vulnerability Database (NVD) and Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) repositories, which track over 230,000 known vulnerabilities. When a new vulnerability is discovered or a change is made to the environment, NetSafe Server immediately flags the issue.
How Vulnerabilities are Remediated
Automated remediation significantly speeds up the process of fixing vulnerabilities. It enables the proactive installation of security patches for hundreds of third-party software titles, providing comprehensive protection. If a patch cannot be installed automatically, the system creates a ticket to ensure it is addressed promptly.
Benefits of Continuous Vulnerability Scanning
The continuous approach offers significant advantages over traditional periodic scanning:
- Proactive Security: Helps to identify and fix issues before they can be exploited.
- Reduced Attack Surface: By constantly monitoring for new vulnerabilities, it minimizes the window of opportunity for attackers.
- Faster Remediation: Real-time alerts allow security teams to address issues as they appear.
- Improved Compliance: Many industry regulations and standards require ongoing risk monitoring. Continuous scanning helps organizations demonstrate a proactive approach to security, which is essential for passing audits.
NetSafe Server’s continuous vulnerability scanning ensures that your server is updated and secure.