Minimizing security scanning induced network disruptions

Abstract

A method for minimizing scan disruptions includes receiving a scan request requesting to scan a set of network-connected assets. Each network-connected asset is associated with corresponding network characteristics. The method includes partitioning the set of network-connected assets into a plurality of groups based on the corresponding network characteristics. For each respective group, simultaneously, the method includes determining an ordered list for scanning each network-connected asset in the respective group, scanning a first network-connected asset of the respective group based on the ordered list, and, after scanning the first network-connected asset, determining a post-scan health status of the first network-connected asset. The method includes determining, using the post-scan health status, that a health of the first network-connected asset is degraded. The method also includes, in response to determining that the health of the first network-connected asset is degraded, halting scanning of further network-connected assets in the respective group.