UNDERSTANDING
AND MITIGATING
NETWORK
VULNERABILITIES
LESSON PLAN OVERVIEW FOR GRADES 10-12
CYBER DAYTON ROGALSKI LHS 720
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
• - Identify common network vulnerabilities.
• - Explain the security concerns associated with these vulnerabilities.
• - Propose effective mitigation strategies.
• IMAGE: Network Under Attack
KEY VULNERABILITIES OVERVIEW
• 1. Zero-Day Vulnerabilities
• 2. Weak Configurations
• 3. Third-Party Risks
• 4. Patch Management
• 5. Legacy Platforms
• IMAGE: Search for an image of 1-5 above
1. ZERO-DAY VULNERABILITIES
• - Definition: Exploits unknown to the vendor, with no available fix.
• - Risks: Immediate attacks before detection.
• - Mitigation: Monitor systems, apply patches promptly once available.
• IMAGE: Network Monitoring System
2. WEAK CONFIGURATIONS
• - Examples: Default settings, weak passwords, unsecure protocols.
• - Risks: Increased susceptibility to attacks.
• - Mitigation: Enforce strong encryption, secure accounts, disable unused
services.
• IMAGE: Example of Weak Passwords and Unsecure Protocols
3. THIRD-PARTY RISKS
• - Examples: Vendor vulnerabilities, supply chain issues.
• - Risks: Compromises through outsourced services.
• - Mitigation: Vet vendors, require security audits, monitor third-party access.
• IMAGE: Examples of Third Party Vendor types of Companies
4. PATCH MANAGEMENT
• - Definition: Ensuring all systems are up-to-date.
• - Risks: Outdated software is exploitable.
• - Mitigation: Implement regular updates, use automated patch management
tools.
• IMAGE: a Link to a You Tube Video on Patch Managements
5. LEGACY PLATFORMS
• - Examples: Outdated systems no longer supported by vendors.
• - Risks: Unpatched vulnerabilities, limited compatibility.
• - Mitigation: Upgrade systems, isolate legacy platforms from critical networks.
• IMAGE: A graphic of the steps involved in upgrading a network system
ACTIVITY AND ASSESSMENT
• End of lesson Question Set
• - Wrap-Up: Recap vulnerabilities and solutions.
UNDERSTANDING
AND MITIGATING
NETWORK
VULNERABILITIES
LESSON PLAN OVERVIEW FOR GRADES 10-12
CYBER DAYTON ROGALSKI LHS 720