Patent ID: 6185689
Filing Date: 2001-02-06
Classification: G06F,G06Q,H04L

Abstract:
A method for assessing security vulnerabilities of at least one target host coupled to a network, comprising the steps of:establishing a network connection between an arbitrary host coupled to the network and a server, and accepting data input from the arbitrary host to the server, the data identifying the arbitrary host and identifying the target host;determining a network address of the arbitrary host and consulting a certification file for confirming that the arbitrary host is authorized to assess the security vulnerabilities of the target host;establishing a uniquely named file, accessible to the arbitrary host;conducting at least one vulnerability test by communicating with the target host, and loading a result of the vulnerability test into the uniquely named file;transmitting an identification of the uniquely named file to the network address of the arbitrary host; and,downloading the uniquely named file to the arbitrary host, whereby the security vulnerabilities of the target host can be assessed.