An XML-based architecture to perform data integration and data unification in vulnerability assessments

Abstract

One of the problems facing penetration testers is that a test can generate vast quantities of information that need to be stored, analysed and cross-referenced for later use. Consequently, this paper will present an architecture based on the encoding of information within an XML document. We will also demonstrate how, through application of the architecture, large quantities of security-related information can be captured within a single database schema. This database can then be used to ensure that systems are conforming to an organisation's network security policy.