A vulnerability scan is an automated process that systematically examines your website, server, or network for known security weaknesses. Think of it as a digital health check-up that identifies potential entry points hackers could exploit, such as outdated software, misconfigurations, or unpatched flaws.

For website hosting, regular scans are essential. They help protect your data, your visitors' information, and your online reputation. Without them, you're operating blindly, leaving your site exposed to threats like malware, data theft, or defacement.

Key benefits include:

• Proactive Protection: Finding issues before attackers do.
• Compliance: Meeting security standards required by many industries.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing your hosting environment is regularly assessed.

The scan generates a detailed report, listing discovered vulnerabilities ranked by severity (e.g., Critical, High, Medium). It's crucial to act on these findings promptly by applying patches, updating software, or adjusting configurations. For comprehensive security, combine automated scans with manual penetration testing and a robust firewall.

In short, a vulnerability scan is a fundamental, non-invasive tool for maintaining a secure hosting environment. Scheduling weekly or monthly scans is a best practice that significantly strengthens your website's defense against evolving cyber threats.