🛡️ Vulnerability Scanning

Detecting system weaknesses before attackers do

What is Vulnerability Scanning?

Vulnerability scanning is the process of automatically identifying known security flaws, misconfigurations, and weaknesses in systems, networks, or applications. It helps ethical hackers and security teams detect exposures before malicious actors exploit them.

📂 Types of Vulnerability Scanners

1. Network-Based Scanners

Scan IP ranges to detect open ports, outdated services, and unpatched systems. Example tools: Nessus, OpenVAS

2. Web Application Scanners

Scan for issues like XSS, SQLi, LFI, etc., in web applications. Example tools: OWASP ZAP, Nikto, Burp Suite Pro

3. Host-Based Scanners

Installed on the system to check for local misconfigurations, outdated packages, and privilege issues. Example: Lynis

4. Cloud Vulnerability Scanners

Assess cloud misconfigurations and permissions. Examples: AWS Inspector, ScoutSuite

🧠 Step-by-Step Scanning Workflow

Step 1: Define Scope & Compliance

Decide what assets (IPs, domains, apps) to scan. Ensure scans follow legal/organizational guidelines.

Step 2: Select Appropriate Tools

Use targeted scanners based on your environment:

Step 3: Perform the Scan

Configure scan depth, credentials (if needed), and scanning policies. Use stealth modes for sensitive targets.

Step 4: Analyze Results

Review CVEs, severity scores, and affected systems. Look for false positives and confirm findings manually if necessary.

Step 5: Remediate and Retest

Fix identified vulnerabilities. Rescan to confirm they’ve been resolved.

🌐 Real-World Example (Nessus CLI)

# Launching a Nessus scan via CLI
nessuscli scan --name "Internal Network Scan" --target 192.168.1.0/24 --policy "Advanced Scan"

# Export results in HTML
nessuscli report export --scan-id 001 --format html --output internal_scan_report.html

💡 Tips for Effective Vulnerability Scanning

🔧 Recommended Tools