In this blog, we break down the key differences between penetration testing and vulnerability scans, how they work, and when to use each so you can take a more proactive approach to protecting your business.
Cybersecurity providers continue to find ways to prevent cyberattacks in the ever-advancing security world. Left of boom disaster planning is extremely important in preventing cyber-attacks from damaging your business. Tools like vulnerability assessments and penetration tests are designed to spot security weaknesses to help prevent attacks before they happen. When deciding which prevention tool to utilize, many ask what the difference between a vulnerability scan and penetration test is.
The Simple Answer Is
- Vulnerability scanning = Looking for weak security in your network, software, or devices
- Pen testing = Simulated attack used to see if an attacker could gain access to your environment from weak spots
What is Vulnerability Scanning?
A vulnerability scan identifies vulnerabilities within your company’s network, software, or devices. These scans are typically quick and cheap yet effective. During a vulnerability scan systems look for holes in hardware, software, or process. These holes can put your network at risk of stolen or leaked sensitive data.
Many vulnerabilities stem from weak passwords, poor security tools, insufficient network monitoring, or unsecured backup methods.
Once the scan is over you will receive a rating. The rating will determine how severe the risk is associated with the vulnerability– low, medium, high, or critical.
Weaknesses Typically Discovered from a Vulnerability Assessment
Performance Inefficiencies
- Slow network performance issues
- Recurring network crashes or instability
Security Issues and Blind Spots
- Vulnerability that could lead to a breach
- Sensitive information that isn't secure enough
- Not enough access control
Network Infrastructure Design Issues
- Lack of network monitoring capabilities
- Gaps in embedded security controls within the network
Server and Storage Status
- Performance constraints causing slow server response times
- Unnecessary or redundant data consuming storage capacity
Benefits of a vulnerability scan |
Limitations of a vulnerability scan |
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Quick, high-level look at possible vulnerabilities |
The testing and fixing after the scan is up to you |
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Included in some IT packages |
Businesses must manually check each vulnerability before testing again |
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Automatic |
Does not confirm that vulnerability is exploitable |
What is Penetration Testing?
Penetration tests, available in automated or human-led, mimic real world attacks to uncover hidden weaknesses in your business’ cybersecurity environment. By evaluating points of access, credentials, and vulnerabilities IT experts or trained artificial intelligence try to break in to simulate a real cyberattack.
Depending on your business’s needs there are hyper specific pen tests that focus on one particular attack like threat response, breaches, malware, hackers, etc.
Once complete, your pen test provider will debrief with your company to explain where and how they could bypass your system security. You’ll receive a full risk assessment with actionable next steps, ensuring your business is prepared for whatever threat tries to intrude in the future.
Weaknesses Typically Discovered from a Penetration Test
Infrastructure Level Vulnerabilities
- Your password isn’t strong enough or reused too often
- Having outdated software and applications
- Your network is misconfigured
Application Level Vulnerabilities
- Authorization, encryption, and authentication flaws
Benefits of a penetration test |
Limitations of a penetration test |
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Live, manual tests mean more accurate and thorough results |
Manual pen testing is expensive |
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Weakness is actively tested to determine whether it can be exploited, which helps separate high-risk from false positives or lower-priority issues |
Manual pen testing is not made for periodic testing |
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Automated pen tests can be conducted periodically |
A pen test only reflects your security posture at the time it’s performed. |
How to Decide if you need a Penetration Test or Vulnerability Scan
This is not “vulnerability scan vs pen test” decision. Most of the time businesses need both at different stages of their security journey. The vulnerability scan is great place to start to find immediate weaknesses in your security environment. It would make sense to address those issues first, then conduct a penetration test to verify that the vulnerabilities have been resolved.
By implementing vulnerability and penetration assessments, you're eliminating weak access points cyber criminals could exploit. It’s up to your business to decide which prevention toll is right for you or if both options are needed at your organization.
Looking for a vulnerability scan or penetration test provider? Usherwood offers both vulnerability scans and penetration tests to help identify and address security gaps before they become risks. Fill out our evaluation form to get started and take the first step toward a more secure organization.
