Authenticated Vulnerability Assessment
Authenticated Vulnerability Scanning: A Two-Step Approach for K-12 Cybersecurity
To effectively reduce the attack surface in school networks, a two-step approach to vulnerability scanning is recommended.
Step 1: Unauthenticated Scans
Start with unauthenticated vulnerability scans to identify weaknesses exploitable by attackers without needing credentials. These scans reveal critical risks, such as unpatched software or outdated operating systems, which could enable lateral movement within the network.
Step 2: Authenticated Scans
Once initial vulnerabilities are addressed, progress to authenticated scans using credentials or agent-based solutions. These scans provide deeper insights, identifying specific vulnerable applications on endpoints, like outdated browsers or utility software, that may still pose risks.
The Benefits
Combining both methods allows school districts to systematically mitigate vulnerabilities, ensuring a more secure and resilient network environment.
