Ad hoc vulnerability scanning and continuous vulnerability management are both methods of identifying and addressing vulnerabilities in an organization's network, but they differ in terms of their approach and frequency.

Ad hoc vulnerability scanning is a one-time or occasional scanning of a network to identify vulnerabilities. It is typically done manually, and the results are not regularly reviewed or updated. This type of scanning is often done in response to a specific event or to meet a compliance requirement, rather than as part of a ongoing security strategy.

On the other hand, continuous vulnerability management is an ongoing process that involves regularly scanning and assessing the organization's network for vulnerabilities. It is typically automated, and the results are reviewed and updated on a regular basis. This approach allows for the identification and remediation of vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by attackers.

Continuous vulnerability management also includes prioritizing vulnerabilities based on their risk level, developing a plan for remediating vulnerabilities, regularly patching and updating software and systems, implementing a process for managing false positives and exceptions, continuously monitoring the environment for new vulnerabilities and threats, and continuously assessing the effectiveness of the vulnerability management program and adjusting as needed. It also includes compliance management and governance.

In summary, ad hoc vulnerability scanning is a one-time or occasional scanning of a network, while continuous vulnerability management is an ongoing process that regularly scans and assesses the network for vulnerabilities, with the goal of proactively identifying and addressing vulnerabilities before they can be exploited. Continuous vulnerability management is considered more effective and efficient than ad hoc scanning in terms of identifying and addressing vulnerabilities.

Enterprotect 360 is a comprehensive cybersecurity platform that can serve as the foundation for an organization's vulnerability management program. It offers a host-based, network and external vulnerability scanning and management solution that is configured to run regular scans and produces alerts of discovered vulnerabilities. The platform consolidates vulnerability data from various scanner types into a single interface, and provides detailed remediation recommendations and instructions for most vulnerabilities. Additionally, it includes false-positive management and exclusion rules to reduce "alert fatigue" and ensure that only important vulnerabilities are presented in the dashboard, reports and notifications. With Enterprotect 360, organizations can automate their vulnerability management process, scan all devices and systems, both on and off the corporate network, and access results in a web portal to drill in and take action.

Vulnerability Management is just one component of the Enterprotect 360 cybersecurity platform. The platform also includes threat hunting, advanced endpoint protection, ransomware protection, Microsoft 365 security monitoring, DNS/web security and 24/7 monitoring by our Security Operations Center, making it a comprehensive solution for an organization's cybersecurity needs.

To learn more about Enterprotect 360's vulnerability management capabilities, click here. If you want to experience the full range of benefits, sign up for a free trial, by clicking here, to see how it can strengthen your organization's cybersecurity strategy.