Vulnerability Scanners

• Vulnerability scanners assist network administrators and information technology personnel in protecting information systems from potential threats. Vulnerability scanners may serve as anti-virus software, scanning for known viruses within email and other computer files, as well as scanning for odd files that may be viruses. Some scanners are designed specifically for finding malware -- short for malicious software. Malware can include keyloggers, which search for passwords and other personal information typed into a computer, among other malicious activities.
  
  

Physical Security

• Physical security vulnerability assessment tools for large businesses may include hiring security specialists to attempt to penetrate security measures. Any potential areas of risk are documented and presented with the security specialists' suggestions for improving security practices. This could also be performed without the need for attempted security breaching, such as hiring security specialists to assess the current security practices and report on obvious vulnerabilities and offer suggestions.
  
  

Risk Assessment

• Risk assessment is performed in all professional fields. With information or physical security, risk assessment often involves identifying vulnerabilities and then assigning monetary values to each that represent the cost or loss from a security breach involving that vulnerability. The act of risk assessment is designed to help determine the best places to spend more money from a budget in the hope of reducing potential expenses later.
  
  

Beneficial Practices

• Documentation is key when it comes to security practices. IT personnel need to keep detailed documents regarding any potential threats even if nothing is compromised by the event. Physical security practices should do the same -- documenting in a report any potential threats, such as questionable people trying to enter the facility and lighting or camera feed problems. The documentation allows management to create a plan for improving security measures and may prove helpful if professional security specialists are hired to assist.