BIOS & Driver Vulnerability Scanning

TL;DR

Yes, vulnerability management tools can highlight BIOS and driver-level vulnerabilities, but it requires specific features, integrations, and often a combination of different scanning methods. Standard network scanners won’t find these – you need agent-based solutions or dedicated hardware/firmware assessment tools.

How to Scan for BIOS & Driver Vulnerabilities

1. Understand the Challenge: Traditional vulnerability scanners focus on operating system and application vulnerabilities. BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) and drivers reside at a lower level, requiring different scanning techniques.
2. Agent-Based Scanning: This is the most common approach.
   • Install an agent on each endpoint (computer).
   • The agent scans for installed drivers and BIOS versions.
   • It then compares this information against a vulnerability database to identify known issues.
   • Example Tools: Qualys VMDR, Tenable Nessus with driver plugin, Rapid7 InsightVM.
3. Hardware Inventory & Composition Analysis (HICA): HICA tools go beyond basic inventory and attempt to identify the specific components of hardware, including firmware versions.
   • These often integrate with vulnerability management platforms.
   • Example Tools: Lansweeper, AssetSonar. Integration is key here – you need data flowing *into* your VM tool.
4. Dedicated Firmware Scanning Tools: For deeper analysis.
   • These tools often require more expertise to use and interpret results.
   • They can identify vulnerabilities in the BIOS itself, not just outdated versions.
   • Example Tools: ESET SysInspector (can detect BIOS information), specialized firmware security platforms.
5. Driver Vulnerability Databases & Integrations: Ensure your vulnerability management tool has access to comprehensive driver vulnerability data.
   • Many tools integrate with databases like the National Vulnerability Database (NVD) and vendor-specific security advisories.
   • Check if your tool supports importing custom vulnerability feeds for drivers.
6. Automated Patching & Updates: Once vulnerabilities are identified, automate patching where possible.
   • Many BIOS updates require manual intervention (rebooting into the BIOS setup).
   • Driver updates can often be automated through patch management systems.
   • Example: Use a tool like Chocolatey or SCCM to deploy driver packages.

     choco upgrade 

7. Regular Scanning Schedule: BIOS and drivers are updated less frequently than operating systems, but it’s still important to scan regularly (e.g., monthly or quarterly).
8. Reporting & Remediation Tracking: Generate reports on identified vulnerabilities and track remediation efforts.
   • Prioritize vulnerabilities based on severity and exploitability.
   • Focus on critical systems first.

Important Considerations

• False Positives: Be prepared for false positives, especially with driver vulnerability scans. Verify findings before taking action.
• Compatibility: Ensure that any updates you apply are compatible with your hardware and operating system.
• Testing: Test BIOS and driver updates in a non-production environment before deploying them to production systems.
• cyber security implications of firmware vulnerabilities can be severe, as they often cannot be easily detected or mitigated by traditional security measures.