In today’s digital landscape, protecting institutional systems from vulnerabilities is essential to maintaining a secure and reliable environment for teaching, learning, and research. To support this goal, the UBC Cybersecurity and Vulnerability Management Solution team has implemented a centralized Vulnerability Management Solution (VMS) that streamlines the identification and management of security issues across the university’s network.
The VMS consolidates information from multiple sources into a single platform, enabling IT teams to monitor and address potential risks efficiently. A key focus is the proactive identification of vulnerabilities in servers that are accessible from the public internet, as these systems can be more susceptible to attacks if not properly secured.
As part of the VMS, the Cybersecurity team is using automation to:
- Maintain Accurate Inventories: Publicly accessible servers are identified and cataloged through a combination of automated and manual processes.
- Automate Vulnerability Scans: Once servers are identified, automated workflows schedule and update vulnerability scans to check for weaknesses such as outdated software or misconfigured settings.
- Centralize Results: Scan results are collected and organized within the VMS, providing each unit with a clear view of its security posture.
While this approach significantly improves efficiency and consistency, UBC continues to explore enhancements. These efforts reflect a commitment to sustainable, cost-effective security practices that leverage automation and standardization.
Taking these steps ensures UBC’s digital infrastructure remains resilient, enabling the university community to focus on what matters most.
Learn more about the Vulnerability Management Solution (VMS)
