Security Risk Assessments

Security Risk Assessments - helpful information

Regular computer and network security assessments of your security measures is critical to identify new potential threats and steps to be taken to secure your business.

While firewalls, anti virus software and other security measures afford definite levels of protection, their implementation far from guarantees the full security of a network. Devices and software can be incorrectly configured, leaving a gaping hole through which an intruder can easily gain access. Security assessments, scans and audits are designed specifically to test the effectiveness of your existing security measures and steps that can be taken to close the “holes”.

Understanding the vulnerabiltiy scan and security audit

Security vulnerability scans are carried out by security professionals and designed to identify, track and manage the repair of network vulnerabilities. Generally, a vulnerability scan is based around:

• a review of your internal network infrastructure and information access
• identification of potential vulnerabilities existing within your infrastructure and business processes
• examination of hardware and software configuration errors, unapplied patches and firewall weaknesses
• analysis of information obtained during previous steps and preparation of an assessment report
• elimination of the risks posed by the identified vulnerabilities.

Unlike a security scan, which tends to have a narrow focus on critical security resources such as firewalls, a security audit is a more comprehensive review and assessment of your overall security. This includes:

• the discussion on security concerns and internal controls with business managers
• identification of key responsibilities and procedures for events such as disaster recovery and response to virus attacks
• an in-depth look at network configuration, usage, protection, communication controls, etc
• determining the access control mechanism for users to access various resources across the network
• examination of operational issues, such as asset security, contingency planning, training and system maintenance.

Business benefits of an IT Audit

Partnering with security specialists for a vulnerability scan and/or security audit delivers benefits that in the majority of cases, far outweigh the costs. These benefits, among many others, include:

• identification of weaknesses in malware detection and removal systems
• improved ability to conduct “business as usual” regardless of new Internet-borne security threats
• identification of existing security solutions that have failed to deliver on vendor promises
• improved adherence to regulatory and/or legislative security requirements
• a more secure network!