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Defense](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-ip-defense?ts=markdown) * [Quantum Safe Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/quantum-safe-security?ts=markdown) * [Next-Gen Trust Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/next-gen-trust-security?ts=markdown) SASE [![](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/prisma-sase-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase?ts=markdown) [Secure Access (SASE)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase?ts=markdown) * [Prisma Access (ZTNA)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/access?ts=markdown) * [SD-WAN](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/sd-wan?ts=markdown) * [Prisma Browser](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/prisma-browser?ts=markdown) * [SaaS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/saas-security?ts=markdown) * [Enterprise DLP](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/enterprise-data-loss-prevention?ts=markdown) Security Operations [![](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/cortex-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex?ts=markdown) [Security Operations](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex?ts=markdown) * [AI-Driven SOC](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xsiam?ts=markdown) * [Extended Detection \& Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xdr?ts=markdown) * [Security Orchestration \& Automation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xsoar?ts=markdown) * [Attack Surface Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xpanse?ts=markdown) * [Exposure Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/exposure-management?ts=markdown) * [Email Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/advanced-email-security?ts=markdown) * [Threat Intelligence Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/threat-intel-management?ts=markdown) * [Agentic-first Automation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/agentix?ts=markdown) * [Identity Threat Detection and Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/itdr?ts=markdown) [Endpoint Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/endpoint-protection?ts=markdown) * [Endpoint Protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/endpoint-protection?ts=markdown) * [Agentic Endpoint Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/agentic-endpoint-security?ts=markdown) * [Ransomware Protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/ransomware-protection?ts=markdown) * [Digital Forensics](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/digital-forensics?ts=markdown) [Data Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/data-security?ts=markdown) Cloud Security [![](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/cortex-cloud-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud?ts=markdown) [Application Security Overview](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/application-security?ts=markdown) * [Application Security Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/application-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [Software Supply Chain Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/software-supply-chain-security?ts=markdown) * [Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/infrastructure-as-code-security?ts=markdown) * [Software Composition Analysis](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/software-composition-analysis?ts=markdown) * [Secrets Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/secrets-security?ts=markdown) * [Open Partner Ecosystem](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/appsec-partner-ecosystem?ts=markdown) [Cloud Posture Security Overview](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-posture-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Security Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Infrastructure Entitlement Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-infrastructure-entitlement-management?ts=markdown) * [Data Security Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/data-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [AI Security Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/ai-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [Vulnerability Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/vulnerability-management?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Attack Surface Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/attack-surface-management?ts=markdown) [Cloud Runtime Security Overview](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/runtime-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Detection and Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud-detection-and-response?ts=markdown) * [Container \& Kubernetes Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/kubernetes-and-container-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Workload Protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-workload-protection?ts=markdown) * [API Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/api-security?ts=markdown) * [Serverless Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/serverless-security?ts=markdown) Observability ^NEW^ [![](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/cortex/xcor/cortex-xcor-logo-nav-2.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor?ts=markdown) Observability \& Remediation * [AI-Driven Observability](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor/ai-driven-observability?ts=markdown) * [Distributed Tracing](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor/distributed-tracing?ts=markdown) * [Log Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor/log-management?ts=markdown) * [Metrics Monitoring](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor/metrics-monitoring?ts=markdown) Identity Security [![](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/idira-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira?ts=markdown) [Human Identities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human?ts=markdown) * [Modern PAM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/privileged-access-management?ts=markdown) * [Identity and Access Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/identity-and-access-management?ts=markdown) * [Endpoint Privilege Manager](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/endpoint-privilege-manager?ts=markdown) * [Identity Governance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/identity-governance?ts=markdown) * [Workforce Password Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/workforce-password-management?ts=markdown) * [Vendor Privileged Access](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/vendor-privileged-access?ts=markdown) [Machine Identities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine?ts=markdown) * [Secrets Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine/secrets-management?ts=markdown) * [Unified Secrets Governance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine/unified-secrets-governance?ts=markdown) * [Application Credentials Delivery](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine/application-credentials-delivery?ts=markdown) [Agentic Identities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/agentic?ts=markdown) [See All Products](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/products/products-a-z?ts=markdown) * [![Overview icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/logo-default-orange.svg) Overview](#products-panel-0) * [![AI Security icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/icon-prisma-blue.svg) AI Security](#products-panel-1) * [![Network Security 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tools](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/prisma-airs?ts=markdown) [![Network Security icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/strata-logo-nav.svg) Network Security AI-powered NetSec with next-gen firewalls, inline defense and unified management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security?ts=markdown) [![Security Operations icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/cortex-logo-nav.svg) Security Operations Stop cyberattackers with the industry's premier platform for autonomous security operations](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex?ts=markdown) [![Observability \& Remediation NEW icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/cortex/xcor/cortex-xcor-logo-nav-2.svg) Observability \& Remediation ^NEW^ Prevent downtime with the AI-driven platform that delivers autonomous remediation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor?ts=markdown) [![SASE icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/prisma-sase-logo-nav.svg) SASE Protect with AI, secure AI use and operate with AI using agentic Prisma SASE](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase?ts=markdown) [![Identity Security icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/idira-logo-nav.svg) Identity Security Identity security platform to secure every identity: human, machine and agentic](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira?ts=markdown) [![Cloud Security icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/cortex-cloud-logo-nav.svg) Cloud Security Prevent risks from code to cloud with the leading agentic cloud security platform](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud?ts=markdown) [![AI Security logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/prisma-AIRS-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/prisma-airs?ts=markdown) [AI Security Platform](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/prisma-airs?ts=markdown) * [AI Gateway](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/ai-gateway?ts=markdown) * [AI Supply Chain Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/ai-supply-chain-security?ts=markdown) * [AI Red Teaming](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/ai-red-teaming?ts=markdown) * [AI Runtime Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/ai-runtime-security?ts=markdown) * [Agent Identity Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/agent-identity-security?ts=markdown) * [AI Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/prisma/cloud/ai-spm?ts=markdown) * [Agentic Endpoint Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/agentic-endpoint-security?ts=markdown) Secure GenAI Tools * [Prisma Browser](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/prisma-browser?ts=markdown) [![Network Security logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/strata-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security?ts=markdown) [Secure the Network](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/next-generation-firewall?ts=markdown) * [Hardware Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/hardware-firewall-innovations?ts=markdown) * [Software Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/software-firewalls?ts=markdown) * [Strata Cloud Manager](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/strata-cloud-manager?ts=markdown) * [OT / Industrial Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/ot-security-solution?ts=markdown) * [Device \& IoT Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/device-security?ts=markdown) * [5G Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/5g-security?ts=markdown) * [Managed Firewalls - Azure](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/cloud-ngfw-for-azure?ts=markdown) * [Managed Firewalls - AWS](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/cloud-ngfw?ts=markdown) [Cloud-Delivered Security Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/security-subscriptions?ts=markdown) * [Advanced Threat Prevention](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-threat-prevention?ts=markdown) * [Advanced URL Filtering](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-url-filtering?ts=markdown) * [Advanced WildFire](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-wildfire?ts=markdown) * [Advanced DNS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-dns-security?ts=markdown) * [Advanced IP Defense](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-ip-defense?ts=markdown) * [Quantum Safe Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/quantum-safe-security?ts=markdown) * [Next-Gen Trust Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/next-gen-trust-security?ts=markdown) [![SASE logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/prisma-sase-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase?ts=markdown) [Secure Access (SASE)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase?ts=markdown) * [Prisma Access (ZTNA)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/access?ts=markdown) * [SD-WAN](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/sd-wan?ts=markdown) * [Prisma Browser](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/prisma-browser?ts=markdown) * [SaaS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/saas-security?ts=markdown) * [Enterprise DLP](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/enterprise-data-loss-prevention?ts=markdown) [![Security Operations logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/cortex-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex?ts=markdown) [Security Operations](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex?ts=markdown) * [AI-Driven SOC](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xsiam?ts=markdown) * [Extended Detection \& Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xdr?ts=markdown) * [Security Orchestration \& Automation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xsoar?ts=markdown) * [Attack Surface Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xpanse?ts=markdown) * [Exposure Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/exposure-management?ts=markdown) * [Email Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/advanced-email-security?ts=markdown) * [Threat Intelligence Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/threat-intel-management?ts=markdown) * [Agentic-first Automation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/agentix?ts=markdown) * [Identity Threat Detection and Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/itdr?ts=markdown) [Endpoint Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/endpoint-protection?ts=markdown) * [Endpoint Protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/endpoint-protection?ts=markdown) * [Agentic Endpoint Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/agentic-endpoint-security?ts=markdown) * [Ransomware Protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/ransomware-protection?ts=markdown) * [Digital Forensics](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/digital-forensics?ts=markdown) [Data Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/data-security?ts=markdown) [![Cloud Security logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/cortex-cloud-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud?ts=markdown) [Application Security Overview](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/application-security?ts=markdown) * [Application Security Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/application-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [Software Supply Chain Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/software-supply-chain-security?ts=markdown) * [Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/infrastructure-as-code-security?ts=markdown) * [Software Composition Analysis](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/software-composition-analysis?ts=markdown) * [Secrets Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/secrets-security?ts=markdown) * [Open Partner Ecosystem](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/appsec-partner-ecosystem?ts=markdown) [Cloud Posture Security Overview](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-posture-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Security Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Infrastructure Entitlement Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-infrastructure-entitlement-management?ts=markdown) * [Data Security Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/data-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [AI Security Posture Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/ai-security-posture-management?ts=markdown) * [Vulnerability Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/vulnerability-management?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Attack Surface Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/attack-surface-management?ts=markdown) [Cloud Runtime Security Overview](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/runtime-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Detection and Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud-detection-and-response?ts=markdown) * [Container \& Kubernetes Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/kubernetes-and-container-security?ts=markdown) * [Cloud Workload Protection](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-workload-protection?ts=markdown) * [API Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/api-security?ts=markdown) * [Serverless Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/serverless-security?ts=markdown) [![Observability NEW logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/cortex/xcor/cortex-xcor-logo-nav-2.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor?ts=markdown) Observability \& Remediation * [AI-Driven Observability](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor/ai-driven-observability?ts=markdown) * [Distributed Tracing](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor/distributed-tracing?ts=markdown) * [Log Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor/log-management?ts=markdown) * [Metrics Monitoring](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor/metrics-monitoring?ts=markdown) [![Identity Security logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/logos/nav/idira-logo-nav.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira?ts=markdown) [Human Identities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human?ts=markdown) * [Modern PAM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/privileged-access-management?ts=markdown) * [Identity and Access Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/identity-and-access-management?ts=markdown) * [Endpoint Privilege Manager](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/endpoint-privilege-manager?ts=markdown) * [Identity Governance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/identity-governance?ts=markdown) * [Workforce Password Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/workforce-password-management?ts=markdown) * [Vendor Privileged Access](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/vendor-privileged-access?ts=markdown) [Machine Identities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine?ts=markdown) * [Secrets Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine/secrets-management?ts=markdown) * [Unified Secrets Governance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine/unified-secrets-governance?ts=markdown) * [Application Credentials Delivery](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine/application-credentials-delivery?ts=markdown) [Agentic Identities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/agentic?ts=markdown) * Solutions Solutions By Use Case [![Drive AI Transformation icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/ai-page/teaser-block/teaser-icon-2.svg) Drive AI Transformation Scale enterprise AI adoption across employees, applications and agents with confidence and control](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security?ts=markdown) [![Accelerate Cloud Transformation icon](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/icon-cortex.svg) Accelerate Cloud Transformation Build fast and innovate fearlessly with AI-driven protection from code to 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Surface](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#reducing?ts=markdown) * [Real-World Examples of ASM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#real?ts=markdown) * [Attack Surface Management (ASM) FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is Exposure Management?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/exposure-management?ts=markdown) * [Exposure Management Explained](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/exposure-management#exposure-management?ts=markdown) * [Components of Exposure Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/exposure-management#components?ts=markdown) * [How Exposure Management Operates Across the Security Lifecycle](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/exposure-management#lifecycle?ts=markdown) * [Capabilities of an Exposure Management Platform](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/exposure-management#capabilities?ts=markdown) * [The Challenges](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/exposure-management#challenges?ts=markdown) * [Exposure Management Solutions](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/exposure-management#solutions?ts=markdown) * [Exposure Management Best Practices](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/exposure-management#best-practices?ts=markdown) * [Exposure Management FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/exposure-management#faq?ts=markdown) * [ASM Tools: Top 8 Solutions for 2026 (Compared)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/asm-tools-comparison?ts=markdown) * [What Are ASM Tools and Why Do They Matter](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/asm-tools-comparison#page-anchor?ts=markdown) * [Key ASM Trends to Watch in 2026](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/asm-tools-comparison#h4?ts=markdown) * [8 Best ASM Tools for 2026](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/asm-tools-comparison#best?ts=markdown) * \[How to Choose the Best ASM Tool\](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/asm-tools-comparison#background: #f4f4f2; padding: 20px; border-left: 4px solid #fa582d; border-radius: 8px; margin: 40px 0 0 0; font-style: italic;?ts=markdown) * [ASM Tools and Solutions FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/asm-tools-comparison#faqs?ts=markdown) * [Best Tenable Competitors \& Alternatives for 2026](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/tenable-competitors-and-alternatives?ts=markdown) * [Reasons to Evaluate Tenable Competitors](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/tenable-competitors-and-alternatives#reasons?ts=markdown) * [Top 5 Tenable Competitors in 2026](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/tenable-competitors-and-alternatives#competitors?ts=markdown) * [Tenable Attack Surface Management Competitors](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/tenable-competitors-and-alternatives#surface?ts=markdown) * [Tenable Exposure Management Competitors](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/tenable-competitors-and-alternatives#management?ts=markdown) * [Tenable Agentic AI Security Competitors](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/tenable-competitors-and-alternatives#agentic-ai?ts=markdown) * [Tenable Competitors and Alternatives FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/tenable-competitors-and-alternatives#faqs?ts=markdown) * [ASM Tools: How to Evaluate and Select the Best Option](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/asm-tools?ts=markdown) * [The Need for Attack Surface Management (ASM) Solutions](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/asm-tools#need?ts=markdown) * [The Key 7 Components of ASM Tools](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/asm-tools#key?ts=markdown) * [How to Select and Evaluate the Right ASM Solution](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/asm-tools#how?ts=markdown) * [Common Challenges in Implementing ASM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/asm-tools#common?ts=markdown) * [Attack Surface Management FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/asm-tools#faqs?ts=markdown) * [Best Exposure Management Platforms (2026): Top 8 Tools + Evaluation Checklist](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/exposure-management-platforms?ts=markdown) * [What Is Exposure Management and Why It Matters Now](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/exposure-management-platforms#what?ts=markdown) * [How Exposure Management Is Evolving in 2026](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/exposure-management-platforms#how?ts=markdown) * [Top 8 Best Exposure Management Platforms for 2026](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/exposure-management-platforms#top?ts=markdown) * [Evaluating Exposure Management Platforms: Key Criteria](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/exposure-management-platforms#exposure?ts=markdown) * [Exposure Management Platforms and Tools FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/exposure-management-platforms#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM)?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/ctem-continuous-threat-exposure-management?ts=markdown) * [Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) Explained](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/ctem-continuous-threat-exposure-management#CTEM?ts=markdown) * [The Five Stages of Continuous Threat Exposure Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/ctem-continuous-threat-exposure-management#five-stages?ts=markdown) * [Understanding the Landscape of Exposure Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/ctem-continuous-threat-exposure-management#understanding-the-landscape?ts=markdown) * [Benefits of Implementing Continuous Threat Exposure Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/ctem-continuous-threat-exposure-management#benefits?ts=markdown) * [How to Deploy a CTEM Program: Best Practices](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/ctem-continuous-threat-exposure-management#deploy?ts=markdown) * [CTEM FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/ctem-continuous-threat-exposure-management#faq?ts=markdown) * [What Is External Attack Surface Management (EASM)?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/easm-external-attack-surface-management?ts=markdown) * [External Attack Surface Management Explained](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/easm-external-attack-surface-management#external?ts=markdown) * [Internal vs. External Attack Surface Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/easm-external-attack-surface-management#vs?ts=markdown) * [How External Attack Surface Management Works](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/easm-external-attack-surface-management#how?ts=markdown) * [Why EASM Is Important](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/easm-external-attack-surface-management#why?ts=markdown) * [Use Cases for External Attack Surface Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/easm-external-attack-surface-management#use?ts=markdown) * [Benefits of EASM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/easm-external-attack-surface-management#benefits?ts=markdown) * [Approaches to Attack Surface Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/easm-external-attack-surface-management#approaches?ts=markdown) * [EASM Challenges](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/easm-external-attack-surface-management#challenges?ts=markdown) * [How to Choose an Attack Surface Management Platform](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/easm-external-attack-surface-management#platform?ts=markdown) * [External Attack Surface Management FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/easm-external-attack-surface-management#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Are the Types and Roles of Attack Surface Management (ASM)?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/attack-surface-management-types-and-roles?ts=markdown) * [The 4 Most Commonly Observed Security Attacks](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/attack-surface-management-types-and-roles#the?ts=markdown) * [Types of Attack Surface Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/attack-surface-management-types-and-roles#types?ts=markdown) * [Categories of Attack Surfaces](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/attack-surface-management-types-and-roles#categories?ts=markdown) * [The 5 Primary Roles of ASM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/attack-surface-management-types-and-roles#asm?ts=markdown) * [Important Functions of Attack Surface Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/attack-surface-management-types-and-roles#important?ts=markdown) * [Types and Roles of Attack Surface Management FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/attack-surface-management-types-and-roles#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Are Common Use Cases for Attack Surface Management?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/common-use-cases-for-attack-surface-management?ts=markdown) * [What Is the Purpose of Attack Surface Management?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/common-use-cases-for-attack-surface-management#what?ts=markdown) * [Decoding the Attack Surface: Ten Examples](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/common-use-cases-for-attack-surface-management#ten?ts=markdown) * [Understanding ASM from the Threat Actor's Perspective](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/common-use-cases-for-attack-surface-management#understanding?ts=markdown) * [Ethical Hackers and Attack Surface Management: A Unique Use Case](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/common-use-cases-for-attack-surface-management#the?ts=markdown) * [Examples of Attack Surface Management Use Cases](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/common-use-cases-for-attack-surface-management#use?ts=markdown) * [Common Use Cases for Attack Surface Management FAQ](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/common-use-cases-for-attack-surface-management#faqs?ts=markdown) * [How Does a CISO Effectively Manage the Attack Surface?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/a-cisos-guide-to-attack-surface-management?ts=markdown) * [The Value of Modern ASM Solutions](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/a-cisos-guide-to-attack-surface-management#asmsolutions?ts=markdown) * [A Comprehensive Approach to ASM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/a-cisos-guide-to-attack-surface-management#approach?ts=markdown) * [Attack Surface Measurement Defined](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/a-cisos-guide-to-attack-surface-management#attacksurface?ts=markdown) * [5 Core Capabilities of Modern Attack Surface Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/a-cisos-guide-to-attack-surface-management#modern?ts=markdown) * [A CISO's Guide to Attack Surface Management FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/a-cisos-guide-to-attack-surface-management#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What Is the Attack Surface Management (ASM) Lifecycle?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management-lifecycle?ts=markdown) * [The 6 Stages of Cyberattacks](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management-lifecycle#the?ts=markdown) * [4 Stages of the Attack Surface Management Lifecycle](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management-lifecycle#lifecycle?ts=markdown) * [Strategies to Complement the ASM Lifecycle](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management-lifecycle#strategies?ts=markdown) * [Challenges that the ASM Lifecycle Addresses](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management-lifecycle#challenges?ts=markdown) * [Attack Surface Management Lifecycle FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management-lifecycle#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What is Attack Surface Assessment?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/attack-surface-assessment?ts=markdown) * [What Is an Attack Surface?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/attack-surface-assessment#attack-surface?ts=markdown) * [Types of Attack Surfaces](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/attack-surface-assessment#types?ts=markdown) * [Examples of Attack Surfaces](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/attack-surface-assessment#examples?ts=markdown) * [How to Reduce Attack Surfaces](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/attack-surface-assessment#reduce?ts=markdown) * [Attack Surface Assessment FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/attack-surface-assessment#faqs?ts=markdown) * [What is the Difference Between Attack Surface and Threat Surface?](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-vs-threat-surface?ts=markdown) * [Defining the Attack Surface](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-vs-threat-surface#defining?ts=markdown) * [Attack Vectors and Threat Vectors](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-vs-threat-surface#attack?ts=markdown) * [Attack Surface Management and Analysis](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-vs-threat-surface#analysis?ts=markdown) * [Real-World Examples of Attack Surface Exploits](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-vs-threat-surface#real?ts=markdown) * [Protecting Your Digital and Physical Assets](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-vs-threat-surface#protecting?ts=markdown) * [Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-vs-threat-surface#faqs?ts=markdown) # What Is Attack Surface and Attack Surface Management? 5 min. read Table of Contents * * [Importance of Knowing Your Attack Surface](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#importance?ts=markdown) * [Types of Attack Surfaces](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#types?ts=markdown) * [Attack Vectors Commonly Exploited](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#attack?ts=markdown) * [Measuring and Assessing Attack Surface](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#measuring?ts=markdown) * [Attack Surface Management (ASM)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#surface?ts=markdown) * [Reducing the Attack Surface](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#reducing?ts=markdown) * [Real-World Examples of ASM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#real?ts=markdown) * [Attack Surface Management (ASM) FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#faqs?ts=markdown) 1. Importance of Knowing Your Attack Surface * * [Importance of Knowing Your Attack Surface](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#importance?ts=markdown) * [Types of Attack Surfaces](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#types?ts=markdown) * [Attack Vectors Commonly Exploited](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#attack?ts=markdown) * [Measuring and Assessing Attack Surface](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#measuring?ts=markdown) * [Attack Surface Management (ASM)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#surface?ts=markdown) * [Reducing the Attack Surface](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#reducing?ts=markdown) * [Real-World Examples of ASM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#real?ts=markdown) * [Attack Surface Management (ASM) FAQs](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management#faqs?ts=markdown) Attack Surface refers to the sum of all potential entry points that an attacker can exploit to gain unauthorized access to an organization's systems, data, and infrastructure. As organizations adopt cloud technologies, remote work, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, their attack surface expands, making monitoring and securing all vulnerabilities increasingly challenging. The potential entry points that an attack surface comprises include: * **Applications:** Software accessible externally * **Websites:** All company-hosted websites * **Networks:** Any network used to connect devices * **Devices:** Any connected device * **Cloud infrastructure:** Any cloud services used Attack Surface Management (ASM) performs several critical functions to give a [security operations center (SOC)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-a-soc?ts=markdown) the visibility needed to ensure security across an organization: * Provides a complete, up-to-date [inventory of all assets](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-it-asset-inventory?ts=markdown) (both known and unknown). * Continuously finds potential vulnerabilities * Offers risk prioritization. ### What is Attack Surface Management? ![](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management.png) close #### Learn how Cortex Xpanse, an attack surface management platform, provides protection for all public-facing assets and synchronizes that data across other existing tools, ensuring complete network coverage. ## Importance of Knowing Your Attack Surface In cybersecurity, the principle "you can't secure what you don't know exists" is a fundamental truth. If an organization lacks visibility into its internal and external assets, it cannot effectively protect them from cyber threats. Every unmonitored device, misconfigured cloud instance, or forgotten web application represents a potential entry point for attackers. Without a clear understanding of its attack surface, an organization risks [data breaches](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-breach?ts=markdown), operational disruptions, and [regulatory non-compliance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/data-compliance?ts=markdown). The evolving IT landscape, influenced by cloud adoption, remote work, and third-party integrations, complicates maintaining visibility. [Shadow IT](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/shadow-it?ts=markdown), where employees use unauthorized software or cloud services, worsens the problem. These unmanaged assets typically evade traditional security monitoring, leaving security teams unaware of [potential threats](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-are-unknown-cyberthreats?ts=markdown). Organizations that actively monitor and manage their attack surface can: * Identify and mitigate vulnerabilities before they are exploited. * Reduce the risk of cyberattacks by limiting exposure to attackers. * Improve compliance with security regulations by securing all assets. ### Attack Surface vs. Threat Surface While the terms attack surface and threat surface are often used interchangeably, they represent different aspects of cybersecurity. The attack surface includes all possible vulnerabilities within an organization, whether actively exploited or not. In contrast, the threat surface focuses specifically on the vulnerabilities currently targeted by cybercriminals. The attack surface is broad and relatively static, while the threat surface is dynamic, shifting based on emerging cyber threats and new attack techniques. *** ** * ** *** *Learn how to identify the differences in your attack and threat surfaces to strengthen your security strategies: [What is the Difference Between Attack Surface and Threat Surface](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-vs-threat-surface?ts=markdown)?* *** ** * ** *** ![Components of an Attack Surface](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/cyberpedia/Unit-42-Cyberpedia-What-Is-attack-surface-management.svg "Components of an Attack Surface") ## Types of Attack Surfaces Attack surfaces can be categorized into three main types: Digital Attack Surface, Physical Attack Surface, and Social Engineering Attack Surface. Each type presents unique risks and requires specific security measures to mitigate vulnerabilities. ### Digital Attack Surface The digital attack surface includes all internet-connected assets vulnerable to attackers, such as web applications, APIs, cloud environments, and digital credentials. Risks often arise from misconfigurations, outdated software, or unauthorized third-party integrations. As organizations move to the cloud, their digital footprint grows, increasing potential entry points. ### Physical Attack Surface The physical attack surface includes hardware and components that can be compromised to access sensitive data, such as laptops, servers, USB drives, mobile devices, and network connections. Attackers exploit physical security weaknesses, like stolen devices or unauthorized area access, to breach an organization's systems. ### Social Engineering Attack Surface Unlike digital and physical attack surfaces, the social engineering attack surface involves the human element of cybersecurity. Attackers exploit psychological manipulation techniques to deceive employees into revealing confidential information, clicking on malicious links, or bypassing security protocols. Common [social engineering](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-social-engineering?ts=markdown) methods include phishing, pretexting, baiting, and impersonation attacks. Since human error is often the weakest link in security, organizations must invest in employee awareness training to mitigate these risks. *** ** * ** *** *Deep dive into the types, categories and roles of attack surface management: [What Are the Types and Roles of Attack Surface Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/attack-surface-management-types-and-roles?ts=markdown)?* *** ** * ** *** ### Examples of Human Attack Surfaces The human attack surface refers to vulnerabilities due to human behavior, errors, and social engineering tactics. Cybercriminals exploit trust, manipulation, and deception to gain unauthorized access to systems, steal data, or execute attacks. #### Phishing Attacks [Phishing](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-phishing?ts=markdown) remains one of the most effective cyberattack methods because it targets human psychology rather than technical vulnerabilities. Attackers use fraudulent emails, messages, or websites to trick users into providing sensitive information like usernames, passwords, financial details, or personal data. #### Insider Threats [Insider threats](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/insider-threat?ts=markdown) occur when employees, contractors, or partners misuse their access to an organization's systems intentionally or unintentionally. Unlike external threats, insider threats bypass traditional security defenses because the attacker has legitimate access to critical resources. #### Social Media Exploits Social media platforms serve as goldmines for attackers seeking intelligence on individuals and organizations. Cybercriminals, hacktivists, and nation-state actors can leverage personal and professional details shared on social media to craft targeted attacks. *** ** * ** *** *Explore various ASM use cases and how they apply across industries: [What are Common Use Cases for Attack Surface Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/common-use-cases-for-attack-surface-management?ts=markdown)?* *** ** * ** *** ## Attack Vectors Commonly Exploited Attack vectors are the paths or methods attackers use to exploit vulnerabilities and gain access to an organization's systems and data. It is a way for an attacker to exploit a vulnerability and reach its target. Examples of attack vectors include: * Phishing * [Malware](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-malware?ts=markdown) * Social Engineering * Web Application Vulnerabilities * Network Attacks * Zero-Day Exploits * Cloud Misconfigurations * Supply Chain Attacks * Insider Threats * Physical Attacks ## Measuring and Assessing Attack Surface Security teams may overlook vulnerabilities without proper measurement and assessment of the attack surface, increasing the risk of cyberattacks. By accurately measuring and assessing, organizations can: * Identify security gaps before they are exploited. * Prioritize risks based on severity and impact. * Enhance incident response by understanding potential entry points. * Ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks like [NIST](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/nist?ts=markdown), [GDPR](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/gdpr-compliance?ts=markdown), and ISO 27001. ### Methods to Determine the Attack Surface 1. Asset Inventory \& Discovery * Organizations must first identify all digital, physical, and human-related assets that contribute to their attack surface. * This includes cloud environments, on-premises infrastructure, mobile devices, APIs, and third-party systems. * Regular asset discovery scans ensure that new, unknown, or unmanaged assets are identified and included in security protocols. 2. Network and System Scanning * **Network Scanners:** Identify open ports, misconfigured firewalls, and exposed services. * **Vulnerability Scanners:** Detect unpatched software, outdated systems, and exploitable security flaws. * **Penetration Testing (Pen Testing):** Simulates real-world cyberattacks to uncover weaknesses before malicious actors do. 3. Risk-Based Prioritization * Not all vulnerabilities pose the same level of risk. Organizations must prioritize attack vectors based on: * Likelihood of exploitation (e.g., unpatched critical vulnerabilities). * Potential impact (e.g., exposure of customer data). * Ease of remediation (e.g., quick patching vs. long-term fixes). * [Threat intelligence feeds](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-cyberthreat-intelligence-cti?ts=markdown) help security teams track active exploits and emerging threats, ensuring resources focus on the most critical risks. 4. Human Attack Surface Analysis * Security assessments must include an evaluation of human vulnerabilities, such as: * Social engineering susceptibility (e.g., phishing simulations). * Insider threats (e.g., monitoring user access and behavior). * Credential hygiene (e.g., enforcing strong passwords and multi-factor authentication). *** ** * ** *** *Explore the dynamic framework of the ASM lifecycle and how it helps security teams proactively detect and mitigate cyber risks: [What is the ASM Lifecycle](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management-lifecycle?ts=markdown)?* *** ** * ** *** ![Automated Attack Surface Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/cyberpedia/automated-attack-surface-management.jpg "Automated Attack Surface Management") ### Tools and Techniques for Attack Surface Analysis Attack surface analysis involves identifying, assessing, and reducing the points of entry attackers can exploit in an organization's digital, physical, and human attack surfaces. Security teams use a combination of automated tools, manual assessments, and proactive security frameworks to monitor and mitigate risks continuously: **Automated Attack Surface Discovery** tools continuously scan and inventory an organization's infrastructure, identifying external-facing assets, shadow IT, vulnerabilities, and misconfigurations. **[Vulnerability Scanners](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/vulnerability-scanning?ts=markdown)** assess known software, network, and application weaknesses, providing detailed risk reports for remediation. **Network Scanning \& Security Testing** helps organizations identify open ports, weak firewall rules, and exposed services that could be exploited. **Penetration Testing (pen testing) \& Red Team Exercises** involve simulating real-world cyberattacks to uncover security weaknesses that automated tools may miss. **Cloud Security \& Configuration Management** tools assess misconfigurations, access controls, and compliance risks in cloud environments. **[Endpoint Detection \& Response (EDR)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-endpoint-detection-and-response-edr?ts=markdown) \& Behavioral Analytics** tools monitor endpoint activity, detect anomalies, and prevent malware attacks. **[Identity \& Access Management (IAM)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-identity-and-access-management?ts=markdown) Auditing** tools assess user access, enforce [least privilege policies](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-least-privilege-access?ts=markdown), and detect unauthorized login attempts. **Threat Intelligence \& Dark Web Monitoring** platforms help security teams identify active attack campaigns, leaked credentials, and zero-day vulnerabilities before they are exploited. [**Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response (SOAR)** platforms](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-soar?ts=markdown) automate security workflows, incident response, and attack surface remediation. *** ** * ** *** *Explore how to assess the three types of attack surfaces and gain expert tips on reducing attack surface risks: [What is Attack Surface Assessment](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/attack-surface-assessment)?* *** ** * ** *** ## Attack Surface Management (ASM) [Attack Surface Management (ASM)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management?ts=markdown) is the process of continuously identifying, monitoring, and mitigating risks across an organization's digital and physical assets. ### Importance of Managing Attack Surfaces Organizations that lack attack surface management are more susceptible to cyber threats because they may not be aware of all their exposed assets. Effective ASM ensures: * Greater visibility across all internet-facing and internal systems. * Proactive risk mitigation through automated detection and patching. * Regulatory compliance with security standards such as NIST, GDPR, and ISO 27001. ### Attack Surface Management Strategies * Continuous Asset Discovery -- Automatically detect new, unknown, or unmanaged assets. * Risk-Based Prioritization -- Focus security efforts on high-risk vulnerabilities. * Automated Response -- Implement security workflows to mitigate threats efficiently. *** ** * ** *** *Explore the definitive CISO's guide to ASM, with expert strategies for risk assessment, asset control, and cybersecurity: [How Does a CISO Effectively Manage the Attack Surface](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/a-cisos-guide-to-attack-surface-management?ts=markdown)?* *** ** * ** *** ## Reducing the Attack Surface Reducing an organization's attack surface is a proactive approach to cybersecurity that involves minimizing potential entry points, hardening security controls, and continuously monitoring for vulnerabilities. By adopting a security-first approach and leveraging proactive attack surface reduction techniques, organizations can limit exposure, improve cyber resilience, and significantly reduce the likelihood of successful cyberattacks. ### Attack Surface Reduction Strategies To effectively reduce security risks, organizations must actively minimize exposure by implementing security best practices and eliminating unnecessary attack vectors. Key strategies include: * Eliminating unnecessary software and services that create additional entry points. * Implementing least privilege access controls to restrict user permissions. * Using strong authentication measures such as [Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-multi-factor-authentication?ts=markdown). * Segmenting networks into isolated zones to restrict lateral movement. * Disabling default credentials and hardening configurations. ### Steps to Reduce Potential Vulnerabilities 1. Conduct Regular Security Assessments -- Perform penetration testing and vulnerability scans. 2. Patch and Update Systems -- Apply security updates and software patches immediately. 3. [Encrypt Sensitive Data](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-data-security?ts=markdown) -- Protect information at rest and in transit. 4. Monitor Third-Party Access -- Restrict vendor and contractor permissions. 5. Control Shadow IT -- Identify and manage unauthorized cloud applications. ### Limiting Attack Surface Expansion As organizations adopt cloud computing, remote work, IoT, and edge computing, their attack surface grows. Security teams must enforce strict security policies and leverage automation to prevent expansion from leading to unmanageable risks: **Cloud Security \& Access Controls** Secure cloud environments with least privilege IAM policies, continuous [cloud security posture monitoring (CSPM)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-cloud-security-posture-management?ts=markdown), and real-time misconfiguration detection. **Endpoint Protection \& Zero Trust Security** With remote work and BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies increasing risk, enforcing endpoint detection and response (EDR), managed device security, and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) reduces exposure. **Continuous Security Monitoring \& Automated Threat Detection** [Deploying SIEM (Security Information and Event Management)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-siem?ts=markdown), threat intelligence feeds, and automated attack surface monitoring helps detect threats before they become breaches. ## Real-World Examples of ASM ### Preventing a Cloud Misconfiguration Data Breach **Scenario:** A multinational retailer had thousands of cloud storage buckets across different regions, many managed by different teams. Without continuous attack surface assessment, security teams overlooked a misconfigured cloud storage bucket that was left publicly accessible. * **Risk:** The bucket contained sensitive customer payment information, leaving it exposed to cybercriminals scanning for misconfigured assets. * **Solution:** The company implemented an External Attack Surface Management (EASM) tool that continuously scanned cloud assets for misconfigurations. Within hours of detection, the misconfigured bucket was secured, preventing a potential data breach that could have cost millions in fines and reputational damage. ### Identifying and Patching Critical Vulnerabilities Before an Exploit **Scenario:** A global financial institution discovered that several of its customer-facing applications were running outdated versions of a widely used web server software. * **Risk:** A recently disclosed zero-day vulnerability in that software was actively being exploited by threat actors, putting millions of customer accounts at risk. * **Solution:** By using automated vulnerability scanning, the security team quickly identified which applications were running the vulnerable software and prioritized patching those systems within 24 hours. Because of this proactive attack surface assessment, the institution avoided potential breaches that could have led to massive financial and reputational loss. ### Detecting a Rogue Insider Before a Data Leak **Scenario:** A tech startup was expanding rapidly and granted employees broad access to internal systems. An attack surface assessment revealed that multiple employees still had access to sensitive financial data even after switching roles. * **Risk:** One former employee, who had access to proprietary software source code, attempted to sell it on the dark web after leaving the company. * **Solution:** By conducting regular access control audits as part of attack surface management, the company flagged unnecessary access privileges and revoked them before the ex-employee could exploit them. This prevented intellectual property theft and legal repercussions. ## Attack Surface Management (ASM) FAQs ### How does cloud computing impact an organization's attack surface? Cloud services expand the attack surface by introducing external storage, shared computing environments, third-party integrations, and misconfiguration risks. ### How does Attack Surface Management differ from traditional vulnerability management? ASM focuses on **external attack surfaces** and continuously identifies unknown assets, whereas traditional vulnerability management primarily assesses **known internal assets** and patches vulnerabilities. ### What are the key components of an effective Attack Surface Management strategy? Key components include asset discovery, risk assessment, continuous monitoring, automated remediation, and third-party risk evaluation. ### What tools and technologies are used for Attack Surface Management? Common tools include attack surface monitoring platforms, external threat intelligence feeds, penetration testing tools, vulnerability scanners, and security automation frameworks. ### How can organizations improve their Attack Surface Management? Organizations can improve ASM by conducting regular security assessments, implementing zero trust architecture, using continuous monitoring solutions, reducing unnecessary exposure, and enforcing strong access controls. Related Content \[The State of the Global Attack Surface Modern attack surfaces are inherently dynamic. The attack surface is unique, persistent and growing --- new issues are constant across industries. Is your organization prepared?\](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources/infographics/the-state-of-the-global-attack-surface ?ts=markdown) \[Cortex Xpanse Web Attack Surface Management Cloud-based operations have made it increasingly difficult for the security operations center (SOC) and application security (AppSec) teams to keep tabs on attack surfaces.\](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources/datasheets/xpanse-web-asm ?ts=markdown) \[Unit 42^®^ Attack Surface Assessment The best way to manage exposure, reduce risk and improve your security posture is to understand your attack surface through the eyes of an attacker.\](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources/unit-42/unit42-ds-attack-surface-assessment ?ts=markdown) \[Cybersecurity Checklist: 57 Tips to Proactively Prepare Is your organization an easy target for threat actors? How can you minimize damage in the event of a cyberattack by lim...\](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources/guides/unit42-cybersecurity-checklist-57-tips ?ts=markdown) ![Share page on facebook](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/resources/facebook-circular-icon.svg) ![Share page on linkedin](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/resources/linkedin-circular-icon.svg) [![Share page by an email](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/resources/email-circular-icon.svg)](mailto:?subject=What%20Is%20Attack%20Surface%20Management%3F&body=Learn%20how%20attack%20surface%20management%20%28ASM%29%20identifies%2C%20analyzes%2C%20and%20reduces%20vulnerabilities%20across%20digital%20assets%2C%20enhancing%20security%20and%20risk%20mitigation.%20at%20https%3A//www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-attack-surface-management) Back to Top [Next](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/exposure-management?ts=markdown) What Is 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