Common Types of Network Vulnerabilities You Should be Aware

The vulnerabilities for network security are consecutively evolving as more threats, and cyber risks try to invade and attain access to high-class business networks. However, before everything, let’s simply comprehend network vulnerability. It refers to a type of flaw or fault in software or hardware, which, when interfered with by any threat, results in a security breach.  

Such vulnerabilities are of two types, physical and nonphysical, that can invade and infect the OS and the host. This generates the need for a reliable user management software. Tools4Ever’s user account management creates a secure connection between the HR system, directory services, and downstream services. This safe network helps you automate various processes, distribute tasks, and function efficiently.  

Broadly classified, network vulnerabilities are of two types-  

Physical network vulnerabilities  

This type includes the physical safety of any asset, like locking a server in a closet or securing an entry point.   

Nonphysical network vulnerabilities  

It mainly involves data and software. An operating system may be vulnerable to harmful network attacks if the latest security patches aren’t installed. The security networks left unpatched can lead to viruses infecting the OS and the host where it’s located. It can damage the entire network.  

Multiple Other Types of Network Vulnerabilities  

There are various other types of vulnerabilities that can harm your business’s network. 

Malware  

There are a lot of malicious software that can be easily installed on the host server or the user’s machine. E.g., Trojans, viruses, worms, etc. Malware is unknowingly sold, purchased, and installed to exploit network security. Systems infected with malware represent symptoms like slow operation, default email sending, self-reboots, etc. Major malware includes-  

  • Worms  
  • Viruses  
  • Keyloggers  
  • Trojans  
  • Rootkits  
  • Logic Bombs, and many more.  

Misconfigured Firewalls  

These have various policies enabled by default and constitute one of the most significant threats to any organization. Misconfigured firewalls expose internal networks and servers over the Internet. With this, the threat actors can spy on your traffic, copy data and damage your network.  

Old or Unpatched Software  

These expose the systems that run the application and can potentially harm the complete network. Software developers invent new patches to fix bugs and viruses to reduce network vulnerabilities. Most of such include millions of codes, and as a consequence, higher vulnerabilities are generated. Thus, big companies release patches daily to defend against cyber threats and software deployment.   

Various Social Engineering Attacks  

These are more like traps that fool users into sharing personal and confidential details like usernames and passwords. These function by bypassing authentication and authorization safety protocols and gaining access to a target network. Main social engineering attacks include-  

  • Phishing emails  
  • Spam  
  • Whaling  
  • Smishing  
  • Pharming, etc.  

Summing Up 

Malicious and threat actors continue looking for systems and organizations to exploit and damage network security to dwell in your business’s system. Malware and social engineering attacks are the majorly used malpractices. Outdated software also offers vulnerabilities that are definitely not present in the current version but have a constant security risk. Misconfigured security walls can expose your system to threat actors and network vulnerabilities.  

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