7 Types of Scanning in Cyber Security

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Why Cyber Security Scanning is Essential

In the rapidly evolving world of cyber threats, organisations must proactively identify and mitigate potential security vulnerabilities to protect sensitive data and maintain a strong security posture. Cyber security scanning involves using specialised tools to detect weaknesses in an organisation’s network infrastructure, applications, and devices that could be exploited by malicious actors.

By conducting regular scans, organisations can pinpoint security issues, reduce the risk of unauthorised access, and strengthen their defences against potential attacks. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the main types of cybersecurity scans, their purpose, and how they help organisations safeguard their networks.

1. Vulnerability Scanning

Vulnerability scanning is one of the most common types of cyber security scanning. It involves using vulnerability scanners to identify known weaknesses in an organisation’s systems, applications, and devices. These scans are typically automated, making it easier to check large networks on a regular basis.

Key Focus Areas

Benefits

Common Tool Used

2. Network Scanning

Network scanning focuses on identifying open ports, active devices, and services running on a network. It helps organisations detect potential entry points for attackers and assess the overall security of their network infrastructure.

Types of Network Scans

Benefits

Common Tool Used

3. Web Application Scanning

With web applications being a prime target for attackers, web application scanning is critical for identifying security vulnerabilities in websites and online services. This type of scan focuses on detecting issues such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and insecure authentication mechanisms.

Key Focus Areas

Benefits

Common Tool Used

4. API Security Scanning

API security scanning focuses on identifying vulnerabilities in application programming interfaces (APIs), which are commonly used to connect different applications and services. Since APIs often handle sensitive data, ensuring their security is vital.

Key Focus Areas

Benefits

Common Tool Used

5. Port Scanning

Port scanning is a specific type of network scanning that focuses solely on identifying open ports on devices within a network. Open ports can serve as entry points for attackers if they are not properly secured.

Commonly Scanned Ports

Benefits

Common Tool Used

6. Mobile Application Security Testing

With the widespread use of mobile devices, mobile application security testing is essential for ensuring that mobile apps do not pose a security risk. This type of testing evaluates the security of apps running on both iOS and Android devices.

Key Focus Areas

Benefits

Common Tool Used

7. Penetration Testing (Pen Testing)

While penetration testing is often considered distinct from scanning, it plays a complementary role by simulating real-world attacks on an organisation’s systems. Pen testing helps validate the findings of vulnerability scans and provides deeper insights into potential attack vectors.

Types of Pen Testing

Benefits

Cyber security scanning is a vital component of any organisation’s security strategy. By employing various types of cybersecurity scans, such as vulnerability scanning, network scanning, web application scanning, and API security scanning, organisations can proactively identify weaknesses, mitigate potential risks, and enhance their overall security posture. Regular scanning, combined with other security practices like penetration testing and patch management, helps organisations stay ahead of evolving cyber threats. Investing in the right scanning tools and ensuring scans are conducted on a regular basis will go a long way in safeguarding sensitive information and preventing unauthorised access. If you need help with cyber security risk assessment and audit, reach out to IT Networks and request a FREE IT audit today. As a trusted IT outsourcing company, we have been providing reliable business IT support across Australia since 1994.

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About IT Networks

At IT Networks, we provide managed IT services designed to keep your business running smoothly and securely. From handling day-to-day IT operations to implementing robust cyber security solutions, we ensure your technology works seamlessly so you can focus on what matters most—growing your business. Let us streamline your IT infrastructure, enhance your security posture, and help you drive greater success.
Kim Pham - IT Network Security