A vulnerability assessment is a structured review that identifies potential security weaknesses and helps the owner prioritise remediation.
What happens during an assessment?
The process normally starts by agreeing the assets, permission, timing, exclusions and business priorities. The assessment then uses proportionate, authorised methods to identify potential issues. Findings are reviewed and presented with context and suggested next steps.
What should the report include?
- A clear description of each finding and the affected asset.
- Potential impact and a reasoned priority.
- Recommended remediation and useful references.
- Any limitations, assumptions or areas not assessed.
- A way to track fixes and validate remediation when included in scope.
Assessment vs. penetration testing
A vulnerability assessment focuses on identifying and prioritising potential weaknesses. Penetration testing is a separately scoped exercise intended to validate exploitability within agreed rules. Neither should be conducted against systems without explicit authorisation.
How to prepare
Identify asset owners, provide written permission, agree the testing window and exclusions, and define how urgent findings should be communicated.
Next step
Learn about vulnerability assessment services or use the contact page to discuss an appropriate scope.