What is a vulnerability, and which network devices are typically attacked?

A vulnerability is the degree of weakness in a network or device; the endpoints — servers and desktop computers — are the devices typically attacked.

A vulnerability is the degree of weakness in a network or a device. Some degree of vulnerability is inherent in routers, switches, desktops, servers, and even security devices.

• The network devices typically under attack are the endpoints, such as servers and desktop computers.
• Vulnerabilities leave a network or device open to various attacks, including malicious code attacks and network attacks.

Distinguish the terms: a vulnerability is the weakness, a threat is the potential danger, and an attack is the act of exploiting the weakness.

Go deeper:

• Vulnerability (computer security) — Wikipedia — defines vulnerabilities and how they relate to threats, exploits, and attack surface.