Top Free Tools For Scanning Security Risks

Web application vulnerability scanners are automated tools that scan web applications, usually externally, for security weaknesses such as cross-site scripting, SQL Injection, Command Injection, Path Traversal, and insecure server configuration. This category of tools is often referred to as Dynamic Application Security Testing tools.

Scanning security risks

Host scanners

Host vulnerability scanners can be used to identify and locate vulnerabilities on servers, workstations, and other network hosts. They also provide a better overview of the configuration settings and patch history of the scanned system. Host-based vulnerability assessment tools can provide insight into the potential harm that outsiders or insiders can do to a system once they gain access to it.

Wireless or cloud scanners

Wireless vulnerability scanners can be used to detect rogue access points and verify that a company’s network has been configured securely. It finds vulnerabilities in cloud systems such as web applications, WordPress and Joomla.

Application scanners

Application vulnerability scanners can scan websites to find known software vulnerabilities and misconfigurations in network or web applications.

Database scanners

Database vulnerability scanners detect weak points in databases and protect them from malicious attacks. Databases are the backbone of any computer system storing sensitive data. Vulnerability scanning is performed on database systems to prevent attacks such as SQL Injection.

Network mapping

Network mapping features provide a visual representation of network assets, including endpoints, servers, and mobile devices, for an intuitive demonstration of the components of the entire network.

Web inspection

Web inspection features are used to assess the security of a web application in the context of its availability. This includes web navigation, taxonomies, scripts, and other web operations that can affect a hacker’s abilities.

Defect tracking  

Defect and issue tracking features help users discover and document vulnerabilities. Then trace them to their source through the process of resolution.

Interactive scanning  

The interactive scanning or interactive application security testing features allow the user to directly participate in the scanning process, monitor real-time tests, and perform ad hoc tests.

Perimeter scanning

Perimeter scanning will analyze vulnerabilities of assets connected to a network or cloud environment.

Risk assessment

Not all vulnerabilities are equally urgent. Scanning tools can classify and categorize vulnerabilities to help administrators prioritize the most worrisome issues.

Problem solving

Once you have identified the priority risks, solving them can be a challenging task. The right tool can help you automate the device provisioning process.

Reporting security deficiencies

Even after vulnerabilities are resolved, it is still important for administrators to demonstrate compliance with applicable regulations. Scanning software can make it easy to create reports on the health of your network.

Network structure

Too many business networks are essentially “open”, meaning that once an unauthorized user gains access, they have access to all parts of the network. This vulnerability can be prevented by better network segmentation and user group permission management.

Unknown devices

Unidentified or unmanaged assets on your network are never good news. It is important to ensure that only approved devices can access your ports.

Web configuration errors

 To ensure the security of web applications, you need to be aware of issues such as distributed denial-of-service attacks, HTTP misconfiguration, expired SSL/TLS certificates, and insecure code.

Conclusion

The security scanner above is suitable for one or more on-demand tests. However, if you need to scan regularly, you may want to use an open-source or SaaS-based vulnerability scanner.