We all make mistakes when we're testing our Windows networks for security weaknesses. It's the human way. But there are mistakes that place your network, your applications and your sensitive information at risk. These are big-picture security assessment items most businesses can't afford to take on.
Experience shows the most troublesome errors and oversights are the ones repeated most often. Any mistake made over and over again is worth paying attention to -- especially when it can affect your business in negative ways. When testing your Windows-based systems, make sure you steer clear of the following actions:
Security assessments and five mistakes to avoid
Home: Introduction
Step 1: Relying on audit checklists and automated tools
Step 2: Not considering the side effects of your tests
Step 3: Not looking at the whole picture
Step 4: Spending too much time trying to fix everything
Step 5: Assuming testing once is enough
About the author: Kevin Beaver is an independent information security consultant, speaker and expert witness with Atlanta-based Principle Logic LLC. He has more than 19 years of experience in IT and
specializes in performing information security assessments revolving
around compliance and IT governance. Kevin has authored/co-authored six
books on information security including Hacking For Dummies and Hacking Wireless Networks For Dummies (Wiley) as well asThe Practical Guide to HIPAA Privacy and Security Compliance (Auerbach). He's also the creator of the Security On Wheels audiobook series. You can reach Kevin at kbeaver@principlelogic.com>.
