What to Look for In a Security Scanner

Let’s start with the basics including: What is a security scanner? So glad you asked! Security, or vulnerability, scanners are tools used to determine whether and where your PC is vulnerable to, shall we say, outside “influences.” Interestingly enough, security scanners actually originated as tools for bad guys trying to break into PCs. The scanners were so effective, they soon became a proactive defense for good guys.

Today PC owners run security scans to find out where the problems are in their system before a bad guy exploits them. Security scanners are preventative, they will not help you once your system has already been infiltrated. They are purely detectives that predict weaknesses in your system so you can fix them before someone or something exploits them.

How Do I Choose a Security Scanner That’s Right for Me?

There are hundreds of these tools out there for sale. So it’s important to know which one will work best for your needs.

Hardware vs. Software Scanners

Security scanners come as both software products that run through Windows and actual appliances that you plug into your PC. You’ll find a little more flexibility with software scanners as you can choose what you are running the scanner on, while still performing other functions with the PC.

Hardware scanners on the other hand are very easy to set up and install. Generally you are able to just plug it into your network and voila! Often you’ll find that the hardware scanner is faster than the software.

Normal Scan Vs. Deep Scan

There are two different types of scans that can be performed, a normal scan (aka passive) and a deep scan (active). Normal scanners perform their passive scanning in the background, running continuously and constantly monitoring systems checking for security issues. Your PC may slow down a bit, but you’ll still be able to use it normally while the passive scan is running.

Deep scanners run a more aggressive scan that can interrupt network services because they are actively trying to break into the system. This is a much more thorough kind of scan for your PC.

We recommend running both, with the normal scan running continuously and a regularly scheduled deep scan for times when you don’t need to be using your PC.

Results, Data, and Support

Running a security scan will usually begin with the discovery phase. Devices on your PC are identified, data is collected, and the vulnerability is tested. A good scanner will provide a report of its results so you can figure out the best way to prioritize potential threats and future security issues. Often, discovered problems can be fixed with appropriate patches or system updates.

You will want to choose a security scanner that is backed by solid customer and technical support. When looking to purchase a scanner, make sure you do extensive research to find the right match for you and your PC.