Vulnerability Scan
Vulnerability scans are used preventatively by companies to identify weaknesses as early as possible. These are computer and/or network scans using automated programs, specialized vulnerability analysis tools and manual vulnerability identification methods.
The scanners and tools used automatically search for vulnerabilities already known but can’t look for vulnerabilities yet to be identified. Like virus scanners, vulnerability scanners are never 100% up-to-date and require constant updates as new vulnerabilities are detected. Since different scanners also identify different vulnerabilities, it is generally advisable to use several programs as part of a security check.