The importance of vulnerability management in cybersecurity has become undeniable as technology continues to evolve rapidly. New software updates and innovations bring a host of benefits, but they can also introduce vulnerabilities into systems. Hackers often exploit these weaknesses, and software developers respond with security patches, creating a cycle of constant risk management.
Estimates show that around 93% of corporate networks are vulnerable to hacker penetration. Unfortunately, many organisations don’t prioritise vulnerability management, leaving their systems exposed to breaches and cyberattacks. In fact, 61% of vulnerabilities in corporate networks have been around for over five years, highlighting a critical need for ongoing attention to network security.
In this article, we’ll explore why vulnerability management is crucial for every organisation and outline a straightforward, step-by-step process to help you reduce your risk of cyber incidents.
Why Vulnerability Management is Critical
The importance of vulnerability management in cybersecurity is evident when considering the frequency and impact of attacks exploiting unpatched vulnerabilities. Common cyber threats, including ransomware and account takeovers, often target weaknesses in software code that haven’t been addressed. When you see the term “exploit” associated with a data breach, it typically means hackers have found and used a loophole in the code to gain unauthorised access.
To better protect your organisation, consider implementing a vulnerability management process. Following a structured approach can help mitigate risk and maintain a secure network.
Vulnerability Management Process
Step 1: Identify Your Assets
The first step in vulnerability management is to identify all devices and software that require assessment. This includes all endpoints connected to your network, such as:
- Computers
- Smartphones
- Tablets
- IoT devices
- Servers
- Cloud services
Vulnerabilities can exist in many places, including operating systems, software, cloud platforms, and firmware. A comprehensive inventory of all systems and devices ensures that every asset is within the scope of your assessment.
Step 2: Perform a Vulnerability Assessment
Once your assets are identified, the next step is to conduct a vulnerability assessment, typically performed by an IT professional using assessment tools. This assessment may also involve penetration testing to identify weak spots.
During the scan, the tool compares your software versions to known vulnerabilities in a vulnerability database. For instance, if your network has a specific version of {Microsoft Exchange} with a documented vulnerability, the system flags it as a potential security risk. The results of this assessment provide a roadmap for addressing network weaknesses.
Step 3: Prioritise Vulnerabilities by Threat Level
Following the assessment, you’ll need to prioritise the identified vulnerabilities. Not all security gaps are equally severe, and a risk-based approach helps focus resources effectively.
Many vulnerability assessment tools use the {Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS)} to rate vulnerabilities from low to critical. You can also prioritise based on your organisation’s specific needs. For example, a vulnerability in software used by all employees should be prioritised over one affecting a rarely used application.
Step 4: Remediate Vulnerabilities
With a prioritised list in hand, begin remediation. Remediation often involves applying a security patch or update, but it may also mean upgrading outdated hardware if it’s no longer supported by the manufacturer.
Sometimes, vulnerabilities require additional measures, like ringfencing—isolating an application or device from the rest of the network. For instance, if a vulnerability exists without an available patch, ringfencing can reduce risk. Strengthening threat protection settings across your network can further enhance security. Once remediated, test each fix to ensure vulnerabilities have been successfully addressed.
Step 5: Document Activities
Documentation is essential for cybersecurity and regulatory compliance. Maintain detailed records of each vulnerability assessment, including dates, findings, and the steps taken to address each issue. These records are crucial in the event of a future security incident and can also guide your next assessment.
Step 6: Schedule Your Next Vulnerability Assessment
Vulnerability management is an ongoing effort. In 2022 alone, over 22,500 new vulnerabilities were documented, and software developers continuously release updates that can introduce new security gaps. Establishing a regular schedule for vulnerability assessments ensures that your network remains resilient against cyber threats.
A proactive, cyclical process of assessment, prioritisation, mitigation, and documentation strengthens your cybersecurity stance, reducing the risk of successful attacks by closing exploitable gaps.
Start Strengthening Your Cybersecurity with a Vulnerability Assessment
The importance of vulnerability management in cybersecurity cannot be overstated. Regular vulnerability assessments are essential to protect against potential threats and maintain a secure network. Take the first step towards a proactive security strategy—{contact us today} to schedule a vulnerability assessment and fortify your network against cyberattacks.