Network Security Scanner

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What Does Network Security Scanner Mean?

A network security scanner is a software tool that scans an entire network and its nodes for security vulnerabilities and loopholes. It is an automated solution that scans, assesses and evaluates the security posture and strength of the underlying network.

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A network security scanner is also known as a network vulnerability scanner.

Techopedia Explains Network Security Scanner

A network security scanner is primarily used by network security or network administrators to evaluate a network’s security. Typically, a network security scanner scans all known and possible vulnerabilities and threats. It scans all devices including:

  • Routers
  • Servers
  • Firewalls
  • Client computers

Network security scanners check for vulnerabilities such as:

  • Password strength
  • Open ports
  • Scripts
  • Operating system controls

Most scanners after analysis provide a reporting feature that reports:

  • IT assets
  • Associated vulnerabilities
  • Prioritized threats
  • Percentage of risk vulnerability
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Margaret Rouse
Technology Expert
Margaret Rouse
Technology Expert

Margaret is an award-winning technical writer and teacher known for her ability to explain complex technical subjects to a non-technical business audience. Over the past twenty years, her IT definitions have been published by Que in an encyclopedia of technology terms and cited in articles by the New York Times, Time Magazine, USA Today, ZDNet, PC Magazine, and Discovery Magazine. She joined Techopedia in 2011. Margaret's idea of a fun day is helping IT and business professionals learn to speak each other’s highly specialized languages.