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In the cybersecurity world, the terms attack vector, attack surface, and attack path are sometimes used interchangeably. However, each term represents distinct yet interconnected concepts that are crucial to understanding and managing risks. In this blog, we'll clarify what each term means, compare them, and explain why managing all of them is essential in a robust cybersecurity strategy, especially within Active Directory (AD) environments.
An attack vector is the specific technique or method an attacker uses to exploit a vulnerability within the attack surface. It represents the how of an attack. Examples of attack vectors include phishing emails, brute force, the exploitation of unpatched software, and token reuse.
Attack surface is a broader term that is used to holistically describe all the potential points through which an attacker could enter your network. The term covers every nook and corner in your security perimeter that could be exploited by attackers, both externally and internally. The larger the attack surface, the more opportunities there are for a threat actor to breach the system.
While the attack surface defines where an attacker can get in, the attack path defines the possible routes an attacker can take after entering the network, leveraging various vulnerabilities and misconfigurations within the attack surface, often to reach a specific target.
| Attribute | Attack vector | Attack surface | Attack path |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | The method or technique used to exploit a vulnerability | All possible points where an attacker can enter a network | The route an attacker takes once inside a network |
| Focus | Gaining initial access (e.g., phishing or exploits) | External and internal exposure points | Internal navigation and exploitation |
| Scope | Narrow and technique-specific | Broad and static; includes all assets within the network | Dynamic and conditional based on the attacker's movement |
| Examples | Phishing, brute force, and exploiting vulnerable software | Open ports, stale accounts, misconfigured permissions, and more | Credential theft, lateral movement, privilege abuse, and more |
To effectively manage risks, your IT and security teams must understand how attack vectors, surfaces, and paths work together.
By managing all three, you can address both external exposure and internal movement, significantly reducing your organization's overall risk.
A wide attack surface in AD, such as one with unnecessary user privileges or unused accounts, makes it easier for attackers to find a way in. Once inside, AD's complex structure allows adversaries to hide, compromise accounts, and potentially take over the entire domain.
Identifying every weak point and path in AD manually is next to impossible. However, with ADManager Plus, an IGA solution that offers robust risk assessment and risk exposure management capabilities, IT teams can:
ADManager Plus provides the visibility and control needed to secure your AD environment from end to end. Take a proactive approach to AD security by managing the entry points (attack surface), methods of exploitation (attack vectors), and internal movement routes (attack paths).
