
What Is a Website Vulnerability Scanner?
A website vulnerability scanner is a software tool that scans websites, applications, and APIs for security weaknesses like SQL injection, XSS, poor authentication, and misconfiguration detection. It helps businesses test website security against the latest threats released in the OWASP Top 10. Malware detection and sensitive data exposure are also effectively done through this tool.
Acunetix, rated as the best vulnerability scanner, provides extensive scanning and reporting capabilities to secure websites against attacks and data breaches.



Why Vulnerability Scanning Matters
Cyberattacks are on the rise. A recent research showed that more than 50% of data breaches stem from web application vulnerabilities. Without a web vulnerability scanner, businesses stand to lose money, reputation, and face legal action.
Additionally, vulnerability scanning is a necessity for:
- GDPR & PCI-DSS Compliance
- Data protection regulations
- Maintaining customer trust
Regular website vulnerability scanning tools help organizations stay compliant and protected.

Key Features of Website Vulnerability Scanner

Advanced Crawling Engine
Guarantees thorough and extensive coverage of web applications.

OWASP Top 10 Coverage
Picks up the prominent security vulnerabilities like injection attacks, security misconfigurations, etc.

Scan Scheduling & Automation
Schedule scans for continuous security testing.

Compliance Reporting
Generate reports as per GDPR, PCI-DSS, and ISO.

Multi-User Collaboration
Enable collaboration among multiple users in security testing.


How does the Website Vulnerability Scanner Work?
- Configure Scan: Define targets and authentication parameters.
- Start Scan: Launch automated tests across your websites and APIs.
- Analyze Results: Review detailed vulnerability reports.
- Apply Fixes: Apply fixes manually or via automated workflows.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Keep monitoring for new vulnerabilities continuously.
Acunetix Vulnerability Management Suite
The Acunetix vulnerability management suite extends beyond scanning:
- Centralized vulnerability management.
- Integration with network vulnerability scanning.
- Continuous monitoring with actionable insights.
Why Acunetix is the Best Website Vulnerability Scanner
Accuracy
Industry-leading detection with minimal false positives.
Automation
Automated security testing saves time and resources.
Comprehensive
Covers vulnerable websites for security testing, APIs, SPAs, and internal networks.
Acunetix AcuSensor Technology
AcuSensor is what propels Acunetix from strong to accurate. Most vulnerability scanners only scan from the outside in, but AcuSensor digs deeper. It gets plugged directly into your application’s source code, Java, .NET, or PHP, which provides Acunetix with inside access when it scans. What it really amounts to is quicker debugging, improved developer guidance, and more actionable findings. It also amounts to fewer false alarms. Old-fashioned scanners tend to have a hard time with false positives because they can’t look behind the curtain. AcuSensor remedies that by bringing dynamic scanning together with code-level visibility.


Network Vulnerability Scanning
Aside from website security, Acunetix also has network vulnerability scanning to scan for vulnerabilities in your servers, databases, and cloud environment. Acunetix has a network vulnerability scan module, designed to expose flaws beyond your web applications.
Whether you’re operating services on-premises, in the cloud, or in hybrid setups, Acunetix provides you with complete visibility into your overall security posture.
You’re not just securing websites, you’re securing everything that connects to them.
It’s one solution for web and network security, all in one place.
Difference Between Network & Website Vulnerability Scanning
Feature | Website Vulnerability Scanning | Network Vulnerability Scanning |
---|---|---|
Targets | Websites, APIs, SPAs | Servers, Databases, Networks |
Tools | Acunetix Web Vulnerability Scanner | Acunetix Network Scanning Module |
Outcomes | App-level bugs, malware detection | Network protocol misconfigurations |
Example Threats | SQL Injection, XSS | Open Ports, Outdated Services |