Vulnerability assessment is the process that identifies weaknesses or vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks, and software, along with the inherent risks they introduce.
We can use specialized tools like vulnerability scanners and manual methods, vulnerability assessment helps organizations figure out where they might be at risk. This process is not only warn identify the problem, bugs and security level issues in the organization's computer systems,networks and software but also figure out how this issues are harmful for software and networks of that organizations.
Several types of vulnerability assessments can be conducted, including:
- Network-Based Vulnerability Assessment
- Application-Based Vulnerability Assessment
- API-Based Vulnerability Assessment
- Host-Based Vulnerability Assessment
- Wireless Network Vulnerability Assessment
- Physical Vulnerability Assessment
- Social Engineering Vulnerability Assessment
- Cloud-Based Vulnerability Assessment
- Network-Based Vulnerability Assessment : A network-based vulnerability assessment identifies vulnerabilities in network devices such as routers, switches, firewalls, and other network infrastructure components. The primary goal of a network-based vulnerability assessment is to identify weaknesses in the network that attackers could exploit to gain unauthorized access, steal data, or launch attacks.Network-based vulnerability assessments typically involve specialized software tools and techniques that scan the network for vulnerabilities. These tools may use various methods to identify vulnerabilities, such as port scanning, vulnerability scanning, password cracking, and network mapping.
- Application-Based Vulnerability Assessment: An application vulnerability assessment identifies vulnerabilities in software applications, including web applications, mobile applications, and desktop applications.These assessments typically involve testing the application for common vulnerabilities, such as SQL injection, cross-site-scripting and cross-site request forgery. Application vulnerability assessments can be performed using both automated and manual methods.
- API-Based Vulnerability Assessment:API vulnerability assessment is conducted to identify and mitigate potential security risks in APIs. This process identifies vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the API’s design, implementation, and deployment. The goal is to ensure that the API is secure, reliable, and resilient to attacks.The OWASP TOP 10 vulnerabilities require specific attention in vulnerability assessment process to ensure the security and integrity of API interactions.
- Host-Based Vulnerability Assessment: A host-based vulnerability assessment identifies vulnerabilities in individual host systems, including servers, workstations, and laptops.These assessments typically involve scanning the host system for known vulnerabilities, such as missing security patches or outdated software. Host-based vulnerability assessments can be performed using both automated and manual methods.
- Wireless Network Vulnerability Assessment: A wireless network vulnerability assessment focuses on identifying vulnerabilities in wireless networks, including Wi-Fi networks. These assessments typically involve testing the wireless network for common vulnerabilities, such as weak encryption, default passwords, and rogue access points.Wireless network vulnerability assessments can be performed using specialized software tools and techniques.
- Physical Vulnerability Assessment: A physical vulnerability assessment identifies vulnerabilities in physical security measures, such as locks, surveillance cameras, and access control systems. These assessments typically involve physical inspections of the facility and its security measures.
- Social Engineering Vulnerability Assessment: A social engineering vulnerability assessment identifies vulnerabilities in human behaviour, such as phishing attacks and other social engineering techniques.This vulnerability assessment type typically involves simulated attacks against employees to test their awareness of security threats and their ability to identify and respond to them.
- Cloud-Based Vulnerability Assessment: A cloud-based vulnerability assessment identifies vulnerabilities in cloud infrastructure and services, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure.?These assessments scan the cloud infrastructure for known vulnerabilities and test the security of cloud applications and services.
