Computer networks use cables and devices for communication, with specific access ports for different types of electronic communication. Port scans are used to inspect open ports for suspicious activity and ensure security. Free and commercial port scanning tools are available, but hackers can also use them for infiltration. Port sweeping is another technique used by hackers to find unsecured entry points on a network.
Computer networks are made up of a combination of cables and telecommunications devices that allow computers to communicate. These communication networks use special access ports to send and receive messages over the telephone line. A port scan is a network security software tool that trolls and reviews the active ports that are open on a network. This scan can inspect messages sent on specific port channels for suspicious activity.
Computers can be used in various ways to communicate. Email, instant messaging, file transfer protocol, and hypertext transfer protocol are all methods of electronic communication. Each of these types of software uses a specific access port on the network to transmit information. The port scanner tool examines open ports and ensures that message traffic meets specific security guidelines.
A port scan typically uses a special port scanning software tool. This tool is configured to run network-wide port validation tests for suspicious behavior. Most tools are purchased through commercial security companies that specialize in computer cybersecurity.
There are several free port scanning tools available on the Internet. These tools are useful for home users who want a quick report of the available ports exposed on a home computer network. A free port scan provides a generic report of open port vulnerabilities, but cannot perform the scan available with commercial products.
A system administrator is typically responsible for performing a port scan for a company’s computer network. This individual runs the scan tool on a periodic basis to ensure that adequate security measures are maintained for the business. Any suspicious door activity is typically reported to security personnel.
Port scanning software can also be used by hackers as an infiltration device. A port scanning attack exposes open ports to criminals, who can then use the information to gain access to an organization’s network. Once a hacker knows the available ports, he can deploy specific antivirus software that will penetrate the security of the company’s computer network.
Port sweeping is another technique used by hackers to find available ports on a computer network. This process is similar to a port scan but sends messages to the same port address on multiple computers. The intent is to find an unsecured entry point on a cluster of networked computers.
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