Introduction: The Importance of Network Security and the Role of Scanning
Networks are a core element of modern IT infrastructure, and network security is essential for protecting corporate assets and data. Network scanning is a crucial process for proactively identifying network vulnerabilities and eliminating potential threats, thereby enhancing security levels. In 2025, the importance of network scanning is further emphasized as cyber threats become more sophisticated and complex. This post details the core concepts, latest trends, and practical implementation strategies of network scanning to assist readers in establishing effective network security strategies.
Core Concepts and Principles
Network scanning refers to the process of exploring devices connected to a network and collecting information about each device. This process is used by network administrators to understand the structure and status of the network and to identify potential security vulnerabilities. Network scanning can be broadly divided into port scanning, operating system detection, and vulnerability analysis.
Port Scanning
Port scanning is a technique to identify open ports on network devices. Each port provides a specific service, and attackers can gain access to the system through open ports. By identifying and closing unnecessary open ports and securely managing only the necessary ports, you can reduce security risks. Various methods are used, such as TCP and UDP scans.
Operating System Detection
Operating system detection is a technique to identify which operating system a network device is using. Since each operating system has different known vulnerabilities, operating system information can be used to identify systems vulnerable to specific attacks. There are active and passive scanning methods, and techniques such as TCP/IP stack fingerprinting are used.
Vulnerability Analysis
Vulnerability analysis is the process of examining network devices or software for known vulnerabilities. Vulnerability scanners such as Nessus and OpenVAS can be used to automatically detect vulnerabilities and generate reports on the vulnerabilities found. This allows system administrators to quickly apply security patches and protect the system.
Latest Trends and Changes
The core paradigms of network security in 2025 can be summarized as integrated security, cloud security, Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA), and AI-based security automation. AI generates new levels of network traffic, increases the demand for low latency, and adds new complexities to network operations. The discovery of threats executing through loaders in the open-source network scanning tool "Fscan" suggests that network scanning tools themselves can also pose a security threat. Therefore, it is necessary to continuously monitor the latest threat trends and establish appropriate security measures.
Practical Implementation Strategies
The application of encryption in DevSecOps environments is becoming increasingly important, with key considerations including the protection of credentials and passwords, the protection of personal and sensitive information, and the protection of network communications. You can use vulnerability scanning tools like Nessus to check network security and perform network security vulnerability analysis and security level assessments for small and medium-sized businesses. It is important to establish security policies based on network scanning results and maintain security levels through regular security audits.
Expert Advice
💡 Technical Insight
Precautions When Introducing Technology: When using network scanning tools, be sure to obtain prior approval and minimize the impact on the systems being scanned. Also, take appropriate follow-up actions on the scan results and reflect them in the security policy.
Outlook for the Next 3-5 Years: AI-based automated network scanning technology is expected to develop further. In addition, security scanning in cloud environments is becoming more important, and scanning technology that supports Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) will be needed.
Conclusion
Network scanning is a core element of network security and will become even more important in 2025. By utilizing techniques such as port scanning, operating system detection, and vulnerability analysis, you should proactively identify network vulnerabilities and strengthen security levels through AI-based security automation and Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA). It is important to continuously monitor the latest threat trends and establish appropriate security measures to maintain a secure network environment.