Security First: IT security audit for a university

We conducted a security audit of externally accessible systems for our client, an international, English-speaking university in northern Germany. The aim was to search specifically for vulnerabilities and thus create a sound basis for identifying risks and strengthening the security of the university network in the long term.

Imagebild IT-Sicherheitsaudit für Norddeutsche Privatuniversität

Project shortcuts

On behalf of a university in northern Germany, we conducted a security audit of its external IP areas. The English-speaking campus university has over 1,800 students from more than 120 countries and is characterized by its interdisciplinary research approach. The aim of the project was to identify potential vulnerabilities in publicly accessible systems and to create a sound basis for targeted measures to increase IT security. A particular challenge was the large number of systems that had to be structured, analyzed, and evaluated within a tight time frame.

Efficient security checks despite high system complexity

We were able to impress with our comprehensive expertise in IT security and penetration testing. Our experienced security experts have in-depth technical know-how and the ability to analyze even complex IT infrastructures in a structured, efficient, and thorough manner.

The main challenge was the large number of publicly accessible systems that had to be checked within a tight time frame. These conditions made a high degree of automation, clear prioritization, and lean processes necessary—without compromising the quality or significance of the analysis.

Methodical approach to vulnerability analysis

The project was divided into two main phases:

  • Reconnaissance (information gathering)

    Identification of the university's externally accessible systems.

  • Schwachstellenanalyse und Reporting

    Technical testing for known security vulnerabilities, followed by preparation of the results in a structured report including recommendations for action.

Technical testing approach and sustainable safety gains

Since this was a classic penetration test, we used a variety of specialized security tools and scanners. We supplemented the technical approach with manual checks by our experts to identify more complex vulnerabilities in networks, web applications, and other exposed services.

As a result, the university received a structured overview of the external systems found and a list of identified vulnerabilities, prioritized according to criticality. The final report serves as a reliable basis for concrete security measures to harden the IT infrastructure. This significantly increased the visibility of potential attack points – a decisive contribution to the sustainable improvement of the university's IT security.

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Philip Keil

IT-Security