Vulnerability Management Tools

What are Vulnerability Management Tools?

Vulnerability management tools scan enterprise networks for weaknesses that may be exploited by would-be intruders. Should the scan find a weakness the vulnerability software suggests or initiates remediation action. In this way, vulnerability management software reduces the potential of a network attack. This approach to network security differs from firewalls, antivirus or antispyware software, and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS). These security tools are designed to manage attacks on the network as they occur. In contrast, vulnerability management tools instead search for potential weaknesses and fix them in an attempt to mitigate potential future network attacks.

Vulnerability management tools initially assess the network using network and port scanners, IP scanners etc. They then prioritize remediation so that the most significant issues are addressed first. Best practice is to allow vulnerability management tools to perform limited scans, and remediate located weaknesses immediately, rather than conduct extensive scans. Conducting more extensive scans delay remediation while the scan completes and therefore leaves weaknesses found during the scan unattended until the scan is complete.

Remediation should happen quickly, and according to the vulnerability software’s prioritization schedule. Systematically eliminating network weaknesses reduces dependence on peripheral intrusion detection technologies. And even if access to the network is achieved, attacks can be minimized by removing vulnerabilities intruders may encounter.

Features of Vulnerability Management Tools

To achieve attack surface reduction, vulnerability management tools include the following features and capabilities:

• Continuous monitoring and scanning for potential vulnerabilities

• Monitoring profile & rule system (IT can determine which systems and assets to monitor)

• Ability to set notifications rules

• Attack surface visualization

• Attack vector analytics and modeling

• Threat intelligence platform integration, data used to update scan heuristics

• Graphical attack modeling

• Attack simulation and risk-scoring against current network security state

• Patch simulation to model patch & update scenarios

• Automated update and patching prioritization scheme

• Network access path analysis to identify problematic access routes suggest lower risk traffic redirections

• Reachability analysis for endpoints and secured assets

• Customizable reporting, (e.g. policy-driven compliance reports)

Pricing Information

Vulnerability management tools are available via the cloud or, for entities facing strict data governance and sovereignty rules, on-premise. Pricing is dependent on the number of assets and systems monitored. Additionally, vulnerability management software vendors may offer additional modules (e.g. web application firewall) which increase subscription cost. Most vendors offer a 30-day free trial of small business and enterprise products.