Establish Vulnerability Baseline
Network Vulnerability Baseline: What it is and Why You Need One
Even the most well-managed networks can develop security vulnerabilities through which hackers can enter to steal or ransom sensitive data or cripple your IT infrastructure.
When cybersecurity professionals refer to vulnerabilities, we’re referring to the myriad devices that regularly (and intermittently) reside on your network, providing access that allows authorized users to do their jobs, and store or retrieve information.
Where Enterprises Can Be Vulnerable
Examples of such devices can include everything from network routers, switches and servers to multi-function printers, IP cameras and remote-user laptops and mobile devices. All of these devices have data ports that are “activated” or open to allow access by authorized users. When poorly managed, other network-attached assets, such as operating systems, web applications and databases can also open the door to criminal intruders.
Potentially devastating security vulnerabilities arise when assets are activated but not properly secured, such as right after installation. Not faithfully updating or patching device software as it’s released is another security misstep that puts your enterprise at risk. Of course, the biggest problem with risky networks is how they unnecessarily expose your network and prevent you from passing your IT compliance audit. Fortunately, Singular Security has an answer for both.
Creating Your Network Vulnerability Baseline
To identify which devices, programs and assets are putting you at risk right now, Singular Security will check your entire networked environment using an automated test called a vulnerability scan. A scan enables you to gather a wide range of “digital evidence” to determine if and where devices or assets can be threatened and/or exploited. From this evidence, you can establish a unique Network Vulnerability Baseline--a snapshot of where you are most at risk today.
Visibility Exposes Vulnerability
The visibility and understanding gained by establishing a baseline of evidence enhances your ability to manage risk and prevent breaches. A baseline also provides more insight into which regulatory mandates apply to your particular computing environment, enabling your IT team or managed services provider to create controls and develop as security framework that facilitates compliance with enforced IT and information-security regulations.
Scorecard Your Risk
Findings from your network vulnerability scan might reveal that the threat levels are high and compliance readiness is low--or the other way around. Knowing and understanding where you are can save significant time when customizing controls can also help you avoid slipping into a reactive “band-aid” mode when deciding how and when to remediate all of your vulnerabilities.
To understand how you can establish your vulnerability baseline to align threat and risk with business goals, send us a message to info@singularsecurity.com and put Vulnerability Management in the subject line. One of our specialist will contact you within 24 hours.