System and method for scanning a network

摘要

Systems and methods to passively scan a network are disclosed herein. The passive scanner sniffs a plurality of packets traveling across the network. The passive scanner analyzes information from the sniffed packets to build a topology of network devices and services that are active on the network. In addition, the passive scanner analyzes the information to detect vulnerabilities in network devices and services. Finally, the passive scanner prepares a report containing the detected vulnerabilities and the topology when it observes a minimum number of sessions. Because the passive scanner operates passively, it may operate continuously without burdening the network. Similarly, it also may obtain information regarding client-side and server side vulnerabilities.