Summary of Vulnerability Analysis: Credentialed and Non-Credentialed
2025, March 12
1. What is Vulnerability Analysis?
- Definition: Identifying, quantifying, and prioritizing security weaknesses in systems.
- Objective: Assess the security posture and uncover exploitable vulnerabilities.
- Methods:
- Automated scanning
- Manual inspection
- Penetration testing
2. Credentialed Vulnerability Analysis
- Definition: Uses valid credentials to log into a system for deep internal scanning.
- How it Works:
- Authenticates using admin/user credentials.
- Examines internal configurations, services, patch levels, etc.
Benefits
- Deeper Scanning: Access to internal details.
- Higher Accuracy: Fewer false positives.
- Improved Detection: Finds hidden issues.
- Better Prioritization: Based on real configurations.
Limitations
- Credential Management Risks
- Restricted Access If Inadequate Permissions
- Performance Load
- Risk of Credential Misuse
3. Non-Credentialed Vulnerability Analysis
- Definition: Scans externally, without logging in. Simulates an outsider's view.
- How it Works:
- Analyzes open ports, public services, IPs without privileged access.
Benefits
- Simulates Real-World Attack Scenarios
- Less Intrusive
- Easier Deployment
Limitations
- Superficial Results
- Misses Internal Threats
- Higher False Positives
- Lower Accuracy
4. Comparison Table
| Criteria | Credentialed | Non-Credentialed |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Internal + external | External-facing only |
| Access | Requires credentials | No credentials |
| Internal Detection | High | Low |
| Performance Impact | Potential system load | Minimal |
| False Positives | Lower | Higher |
| Ease of Deployment | Complex | Simple |
5. Use Cases
Use Credentialed When:
- In-depth audits
- Checking configurations
- Patch verification
- Compliance (e.g., PCI DSS, HIPAA)
Use Non-Credentialed When:
- Simulating hacker's view
- Quick vulnerability scans
- Monitoring firewalls
- Initial assessments
6. Hybrid Vulnerability Scanning
- Combination of Both Types
- Benefits:
- Balanced Coverage
- Greater Accuracy
- Informed Prioritization
7. Common Vulnerability Scanning Tools
- Nessus – Enterprise-grade, both scan types.
- OpenVAS – Open-source, flexible scanning.
- QualysGuard – Commercial, internal and external scanning.
- Rapid7 Nexpose – Integrated with monitoring tools.
8. Best Practices
Credentialed Scanning
- Use least-privilege credentials
- Rotate credentials regularly
- Scan during off-peak hours
Non-Credentialed Scanning
- Regularly test firewalls/perimeter
- Audit open ports/services
- Combine with other tools
9. Challenges
- False Positives/Negatives
- High Resource Usage
- Advanced Evasion Techniques by attackers