What is the best vulnerability management for small businesses?

# Vulnerability Management for Small Businesses

## Key Considerations for Small Businesses

- Limited budget and IT staff

- Need for simplicity over complexity

- Balance between security and operational impact

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## Recommended Tools

### Free/Low-Cost Options

| Tool | Best For | Cost |

|------|----------|------|

| **OpenVAS/Greenbone** | Network scanning | Free |

| **Microsoft Defender** | Windows environments | Included with Windows |

| **Nessus Essentials** | Up to 16 IPs | Free |

| **Qualys VMDR** | Cloud-based scanning | Free trial available |

### Paid Options (SMB-Friendly)

| Tool | Strengths | Approx. Cost |

|------|-----------|--------------|

| **Tenable.io** | Easy to use | ~$2,500/year |

| **Rapid7 InsightVM** | Good reporting | ~$2,000/year |

| **Orca Security** | Cloud-focused | Varies |

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## Practical Framework

### 1. **Inventory**

- Know what devices/software you have

- Tools: Lansweeper, Spiceworks (free)

### 2. **Scan Regularly**

- Monthly at minimum

- After major changes

### 3. **Prioritize Patches**

- Focus on **Critical/High** CVEs first

- Use CVSS scores as guidance

### 4. **Patch Management**

- Windows: WSUS or Microsoft Intune

- Third-party: Patch My PC, NinjaRMM

### 5. **Track & Document**

- Maintain a simple spreadsheet or use a ticketing system

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## Budget-Friendly Approach

**Starter Stack (Under $500/year):**

- Nessus Essentials (free scanning)

- Patch My PC (~$150/year)

- Simple asset inventory spreadsheet

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## Quick Wins

- ✅ Enable automatic updates

- ✅ Use a password manager

- ✅ Enable MFA everywhere

- ✅ Regular backups

- ✅ Segment your network

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## When to Consider an MSSP

If you have **no dedicated IT staff**, a **Managed Security Service Provider** may be more cost-effective than building in-house capability.

Would you like more detail on any specific tool or aspect?