What is the purpose of port scanning in network security?

The purpose of port scanning in network security is to identify open ports on a networked system. Open ports can provide pathways for communication, and if they are not secured, they may be susceptible to exploitation by attackers. By employing port scanning, security professionals can map out the various services and applications that are accessible on a server, as each service typically listens on a specific port.

This information is crucial for assessing the security posture of the network. Knowing which ports are open helps in determining areas that may require strengthening against potential unauthorized access or attacks. Furthermore, port scanning can assist in identifying outdated services or services running with known vulnerabilities, enabling organizations to address these issues proactively.

While preventing unauthorized access, monitoring traffic load, and encrypting communications are important aspects of network security, they do not directly align with the specific function of port scanning.