Network Security Scanner

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.

Advertisements

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
Advertisements

Related Terms

Latest Cybersecurity Terms

Related Reading

Margaret Rouse

Margaret Rouse 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 explanations have appeared on TechTarget websites and she's been cited as an authority in articles by the New York Times, Time Magazine, USA Today, ZDNet, PC Magazine and Discovery Magazine.Margaret's idea of a fun day is helping IT and business professionals learn to speak each other’s highly specialized languages. If you have a suggestion for a new definition or how to improve a technical explanation, please email Margaret or contact her…