[PCI DSS 3.0] 11.2.2 Perform quarterly external vulnerability scans, via an Approved Scanning Vendor (ASV) approve

11.2.2 Perform quarterly external vulnerability scans, via an Approved Scanning Vendor (ASV) approved by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC). Perform rescans as needed, until passing scans are achieved.

Note: Quarterly external vulnerability scans must be performed by an Approved Scanning Vendor (ASV), approved by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC).
Refer to the ASV Program Guide published on the PCI SSC website for scan customer responsibilities, scan preparation, etc.

11.2.2.a Review output from the four most recent quarters of external vulnerability scans and verify that four quarterly external vulnerability scans occurred in the most recent 12- month period.
11.2.2.b Review the results of each quarterly scan and rescan to verify that the ASV Program Guide requirements for a passing scan have been met (for example, no vulnerabilities rated 4.0 or higher by the CVSS, and no automatic failures).
11.2.2.c Review the scan reports to verify that the scans were completed by a PCI SSC Approved Scanning Vendor (ASV).

As external networks are at greater risk of compromise, quarterly external vulnerability scanning must be performed by a PCI SSC Approved Scanning Vendor (ASV).