Every system, device, and application has weaknesses that can be discovered and fixed. The key is finding them before attackers do. That is what vulnerability management is all about.
In this week’s comic, Joe feels overwhelmed by a long list of vulnerabilities from a system scan. Debra explains that this is completely normal. Not every issue is urgent, but some can open serious risks if ignored. Together, they walk through how prioritizing, patching, and staying proactive keeps a network secure.
What vulnerability management does
Vulnerability management is the process of identifying, assessing, prioritizing, and fixing weaknesses across systems and devices. It is a continuous cycle, not a one-time task.
The process usually involves:
• Scanning systems to find known weaknesses or outdated software.
• Prioritizing issues based on their level of risk or exposure.
• Patching or mitigating those vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
• Reviewing regularly to make sure new risks are addressed as they appear.
Vulnerability management tools can automate scans and help track what has been fixed, but human judgment is still key. Security teams decide which vulnerabilities matter most to their environment and act accordingly.
Why it matters
Attackers often look for the simplest path in, such as an unpatched system, an outdated program, or a forgotten server. By keeping systems up to date, organizations remove many of those easy opportunities.
Vulnerability management does not just fix problems. It helps teams understand their systems better, plan updates more strategically, and strengthen their overall defense.
Everyday takeaway
Think of it like maintaining a building. Cracks in the wall or loose bolts might not cause immediate damage, but ignoring them makes the structure weaker over time. Routine checks and quick fixes prevent bigger issues later.
The same principle applies to cybersecurity. Regular scanning, reviewing, and updating keep your digital environment strong and resilient.
Thank you for reading. I hope you have subscribed. Let me know in the comments how you stay proactive about updates and security in your daily work. 🧱
Cyber With Debra! 
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