IT audit: what is a comprehensive IT infrastructure review?

An IT audit is an important tool for modern organisations to assess the current state of their infrastructure, identify weaknesses and implement changes to improve efficiency and security. Regular IT audits help reduce the risks associated with technical problems and cyber threats and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

Key phases of a comprehensive IT audit

A comprehensive audit of an organisation's IT systems involves several stages, each aimed at assessing a specific component of the infrastructure. It is a multi-stage process that includes analysis of hardware, software, networks, security and management processes. This process is preceded by the development of an IT infrastructure audit strategy. 

Hardware and infrastructure assessment

Auditors thoroughly examine the physical equipment such as servers, network devices, storage systems and other hardware components that form the basis of the IT infrastructure. If weaknesses are found in the performance of servers or network devices, auditors may recommend upgrading or replacing them with more powerful solutions.

The physical security of the hardware is also assessed. This includes checking the protection systems in place to prevent unauthorised access to server rooms, the provision of uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) and an analysis of the cooling systems in place to prevent overheating of equipment. Physical security is particularly important to protect against external threats such as fire or natural disasters.

Another important issue is backup systems. Inspectors assess whether all data and systems are reliably backed up, whether there are clearly defined disaster recovery plans, and whether these systems are regularly tested for performance. The reliability of backups and the speed of data recovery in the event of a disaster are critical to ensuring the resilience and availability of the entire infrastructure. This process ensures that the business can quickly resume operations in the event of a major disruption or disaster.

Software analysis

Software is a key element of the IT infrastructure and its condition has a significant impact on the overall efficiency of the system. Auditors conduct a thorough analysis of all installed software, starting with a licence check. This helps to avoid legal and financial problems associated with the use of illegal or incorrectly licensed software. It is important to ensure that all software is licensed by the manufacturer's requirements and is used within the permitted conditions.

The next step is to analyse the effectiveness of the software. This includes assessing its performance, stability and ability to meet current business needs. The auditors also assess whether existing applications can deliver the required level of performance and whether they are a source of system delay or failure.

Special attention is given to software security. The audit checks that all applications have been updated to the latest versions, that patches have been installed to close vulnerabilities, and that the software complies with modern cybersecurity standards. Outdated or unupdated applications can be potential entry points for cybercriminals, threatening the confidentiality and integrity of data.

Another issue is software compatibility with other components of the IT infrastructure. Applications must interact seamlessly with each other, as well as with hardware and network systems. Conflicts between applications or their incompatibility can lead to system outages and errors. Auditors check that all applications are optimally configured to run smoothly within the infrastructure, ensuring the stability and reliability of the IT system as a whole.

Software analysis is therefore an important part of an IT audit, helping to identify and eliminate risks associated with outdated, inefficient or insecure software products.

Network infrastructure audit

The network is the basis for communication between all elements of the IT infrastructure. An IT audit includes checking network connections, bandwidth, reliability and security. We assess traffic and load management and the availability of activity monitoring mechanisms.

Network security assessment

The protection of network connections is a particular focus of IT audits, as the network serves as the main artery for data transfer and communication between systems and users. Effective network security helps prevent unauthorised access, cyber-attacks and leakage of confidential information, which can have serious consequences for the security and stability of the business.

The main components of a network security assessment are

1. Analysis of firewall settings. Firewalls are a network's first line of defence, controlling inbound and outbound traffic. Auditors thoroughly review firewall configurations, including access rules, traffic filtering policies and VPN settings. 
2. Audit virtual private network (VPN) systems. A VPN provides a secure communications channel between remote users and the corporate network by encrypting all data transmitted. Auditors evaluate VPN settings, including encryption methods, user authentication and access control. 
3. Intrusion Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS). Intrusion detection systems (IDS) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) actively monitor network traffic for suspicious activity and threats. Auditors analyse the effectiveness of these systems, their ability to detect and respond to threats in real-time, and their integration with other network security components. 
4. Vulnerability detection. Using specialised vulnerability scanning tools such as Nessus or Qualys, auditors identify potential weaknesses in the network infrastructure. This includes checking for open ports, weak passwords, outdated protocols and other vulnerabilities that attackers can use to penetrate the network. 
5. Penetration testing. Penetration tests are conducted to simulate real-world attacks on the network infrastructure. This allows you to identify security weaknesses that can be used to compromise the network. The test results help auditors develop recommendations to strengthen security, reduce the likelihood of successful attacks and increase the overall level of network protection.

Recommendations and remediation of weaknesses

After identifying vulnerabilities, auditors propose specific actions to address them. These may include:

• Software updates;
• Strengthening security policies;
• Setting up IDS/IPS systems;
• Regular monitoring and scanning;
• Employee training.

The network security assessment is therefore an integral part of a comprehensive IT audit that helps organisations protect themselves against modern threats and ensure the stable and secure operation of the entire IT infrastructure.

IT infrastructure security audit

A security audit examines all levels of information system protection: user authentication, access control, and security settings at every stage of operation. This process helps to reduce risks from internal and external threats.

During the IT audit process, special attention is paid to both internal and external threats. External attacks, such as hacking, phishing or DDoS attacks, can threaten an organisation's information security and result in significant data loss or system disruption. At the same time, internal threats, such as improper management of access rights, human error, and intentional or unintentional actions by employees, can also pose serious risks.

External threat assessment

In this phase, an audit analyses the level of protection the organisation has against external attacks:

• Firewalls and other perimeter defences. It assesses how effectively the organisation uses firewalls, intrusion prevention systems and other solutions to protect against unauthorised external access.
• Web application security. We analyse the security of web applications against attacks such as SQL injections, XSS and other common cyber threats.
• Network protocol configuration. We review outdated or insecure network protocols that could be used by attackers to compromise the network infrastructure.

Internal threat assessment

Internal threats can be the result of poor access control, lack of security awareness, or even malicious acts by employees. Auditors assess the following:

• Access rights management. They look at how access rights to critical resources are allocated and controlled. Excessive access rights can be a source of internal threats.
• Authentication and access control policies. Assess whether the company uses two-factor authentication, complex passwords and access control.
• Logging and monitoring. Activity in IT systems is monitored to detect potential threats promptly.

When assessing internal and external threats, it is also important to identify potential attack vectors that could be used by external attackers or internal intruders to access corporate data and to review data backup and system fault tolerance settings.

Vulnerability and penetration testing

Vulnerability testing and penetration testing are specialised techniques used to identify security weaknesses in IT infrastructure. These tests allow you to understand how well your systems are protected against real threats and what actions you need to take to improve security.

Vulnerability testing

Vulnerability testing is performed using specialised software tools to scan network and software components:

• Port scanning. Check for open ports that can be used for unauthorised access.
• Software version analysis. Assesses whether the latest versions of software are being used and whether the latest security patches are installed.
• Settings assessment. Checks security system configurations, including firewall settings, network policies and antivirus software.

Penetration testing

Penetration tests simulate real-world attacks to test the readiness of the IT infrastructure to protect against external and internal threats. These tests help identify vulnerabilities that may be missed during a routine audit:

• Attempts to gain access to systems.
• Analysis of the system's response to an intrusion.
• Based on the results of the penetration test, organisations receive a detailed report with recommendations for remediation and an action plan to improve security.

Vulnerability and penetration testing are therefore important components of a comprehensive IT audit, providing an in-depth assessment of system security and helping organisations to be prepared to defend against real cyber threats.

Assessing IT infrastructure management policies and procedures

The effectiveness of IT infrastructure management depends on the existence of clear policies and procedures. Auditors check that operational processes comply with modern standards and make recommendations for improving management.

IT systems documentation and reporting

When managing IT infrastructure, it is important to thoroughly document all changes that occur in the system, as this has a significant impact on the overall security and reliability of the system. Documentation is important to:

• Identify errors. Proper documentation allows you to quickly identify errors or flaws in the system configuration. When changes are documented, it is easier to analyse them and find the source of the problem.
• Troubleshoot problems. Documentation can be used as a basis for developing problem resolution strategies. By understanding what changes have been made, specialists can respond more quickly to incidents and restore normal system operation.
• Meet standards requirements. Many international standards, such as ISO, require documentation to prove compliance with security policies and procedures. Auditors check that documentation meets the requirements of the standards to avoid possible fines or legal consequences.

Proper documentation and reporting in IT systems not only contributes to the security and reliability of the system, but also ensures better communication and process management within the organisation. This is an integral part of successful IT infrastructure management, helping to reduce risk and increase productivity.

Analyse compliance with standards and regulations

International standards such as ISO, GDPR and PCI DSS define requirements for IT infrastructure management. An audit checks whether the infrastructure meets these standards and provides recommendations to address any discrepancies.

Security standards and implementation

Among other things, auditors are tasked with analysing the compliance of security policies with international standards such as ISO 27001 and NIST. These standards provide a framework for developing and implementing effective information and cyber security management systems that enable organisations to mitigate the risks associated with the processing and storage of confidential information.

The importance of standards compliance

1. Protecting data confidentiality. For organisations that process sensitive information, compliance with security standards is paramount. Standards such as ISO 27001 set out clear requirements for access control, risk management and privacy policies to help prevent data breaches.
2. Prevent financial loss. Breaches of security standards can lead to serious financial losses, including regulatory fines and the cost of recovering from an incident. Adherence to standards helps avoid these risks and provides the foundation for a stable business.
3. Increased customer confidence. Companies that can demonstrate compliance with international standards tend to enjoy greater customer confidence. This is important for maintaining the company's reputation and attracting new customers.

To meet all security standards, it is important to assess some aspects: security policy, security tools and technologies, staff training and analysis of test results.

By conducting a comprehensive IT audit, auditors can help organisations identify weaknesses in their security policies and develop recommendations for improvement. This, in turn, ensures not only the protection of confidential information but also the security of the organisation.

Findings and recommendations following an IT audit

On completion of an IT infrastructure audit, an organisation receives a detailed report of all identified deficiencies and recommendations for remediation. This allows you to assess the true state of your IT infrastructure and create a plan to improve its efficiency and security.

The importance of implementing the recommendations

Implementing the recommendations from an IT audit is a critical step in improving the security and performance of information systems. This process not only ensures that identified vulnerabilities are addressed but also lays the foundation for a stable and efficient IT infrastructure in the future:

• Increased security.
• Improved efficiency.
• Increase customer satisfaction.
• Reduced risk.
• Maintain regulatory compliance.

Conclusion

A comprehensive IT audit allows you to identify existing and potential problems in your infrastructure and improve its reliability and security. Regular audits ensure compliance and enable organisations to operate more efficiently, minimising risk, increasing system performance and improving customer satisfaction.

Do you need help with an IT infrastructure audit?

Contact us and Integrity Vision specialists will advise you: info@integrity.com.ua