How does a vulnerability scan differ from a penetration test?

A vulnerability scan is primarily designed to identify known vulnerabilities within systems, networks, or applications. This scanning process utilizes a set of predefined rules and databases of known vulnerabilities to systematically check for potential weaknesses. By identifying these vulnerabilities, organizations can prioritize the implementation of necessary fixes or mitigations before they can be exploited by an attacker.

In contrast, a penetration test goes beyond identifying vulnerabilities; it attempts to exploit them to determine how deep an attacker can penetrate the system and what data could be accessed or compromised. Penetration testing involves a more manual and strategic approach, often simulating real-world attacks to assess the effectiveness of security measures.

The distinction between the two processes lies in their objectives: vulnerability scans are focused on detection, while penetration tests emphasize exploitation and testing the actual defense mechanisms in place.