How to Build an Effective Vulnerability Management Program for Your Tech
As technology evolves, so do its weaknesses. Every software update or new device can introduce potential security flaws — and cybercriminals are always looking for ways to exploit them.
The cycle goes like this:
New code is released → vulnerabilities are discovered → hackers try to exploit them → patches are issued → but many organizations don’t apply them quickly enough.
This gap is what makes vulnerability management so important.
According to research, 93% of corporate networks are at risk of being hacked, and 61% of known vulnerabilities are over five years old . Many cyberattacks — including ransomware and account takeovers — succeed simply because companies failed to patch known issues.
So how do you stay ahead? With a strong vulnerability management process .
Let’s break it down into simple, actionable steps.
Step 1: Know What You’re Managing
Start by creating an inventory of all devices and systems connected to your network. This includes:
- Laptops and desktops
- Mobile devices
- Servers
- Cloud services
- IoT devices (like printers, cameras, etc.)
Every system, app, and piece of hardware could be a potential entry point for attackers. Knowing what you have gives you a clear picture of what needs protection.
Step 2: Run a Vulnerability Assessment
Once you’ve mapped out your assets, scan your systems using specialized tools. These scans look for outdated software, weak configurations, or known security gaps.
For example, if a tool detects that your company is still running a vulnerable version of Microsoft Exchange, it will flag that as a high-risk issue.
Penetration testing can also be used to simulate real-world attacks and uncover hidden risks.
Step 3: Rank Vulnerabilities by Risk
Not all vulnerabilities are equally dangerous. Use a scoring system like the Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) to rate each flaw from low to critical.
But don’t rely only on automated scores — consider your own business context too. A vulnerability in rarely used software might not be urgent, while one affecting daily-use systems should be fixed right away.
Step 4: Fix the Most Critical Issues First
Now it’s time to act. Remediation usually means applying software updates or security patches. If a patch isn’t available yet, other options include:
- Upgrading outdated hardware
- Isolating affected systems (also called “ringfencing”)
- Adjusting firewall or threat detection settings
After fixes are applied, always verify that they worked and the vulnerability has been fully resolved.
Step 5: Keep Detailed Records
Documentation is essential — both for compliance and future planning. Record:
- When assessments were done
- Which vulnerabilities were found
- How they were fixed
- Who handled each step
These records help during audits and give you a baseline for future rounds of assessment.
Step 6: Make It a Regular Practice
Vulnerability management isn’t a one-time task. In 2022 alone, more than 22,500 new vulnerabilities were reported. As software changes, so do the risks.
Set a regular schedule for scanning and updating your systems. Whether monthly, quarterly, or biannually — consistency is key.
Start Strengthening Your Security Today
A solid vulnerability management plan is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of a cyberattack. The process doesn’t have to be complex — just consistent and thorough.
If you’re unsure where to begin, we can help. Contact us today to schedule a vulnerability scan and start protecting your business from tomorrow’s threats — today.