Active Scanning
Noun · Security & Infosec
Definitions
A discovery technique that sends packets, requests, or probes to hosts and services in order to identify systems, ports, software, or vulnerabilities. It contrasts with passive observation because it can be detected and may affect target systems.
In plain English: Probing systems directly to discover what is running and exposed.
Example: "The red team used active scanning to map exposed services before attempting exploitation."