Which assessment exploits vulnerabilities in a system?

Penetration testing is a method utilized to identify and exploit vulnerabilities within a system. The primary aim is to simulate an attack on the system’s defenses to determine how effectively these measures can withstand an actual malicious assault. Through this process, security professionals intentionally probe and exploit weaknesses to reveal potential areas of risk that could be targeted by cyber threats.

During penetration testing, various tools and techniques are employed to mimic the tactics that real attackers might use. This provides valuable insight into the vulnerabilities that exist, the potential impact of those vulnerabilities if they were exploited, and informs necessary remedial actions that can be taken to bolster security. The hands-on nature of penetration testing enables organizations to understand their security posture more clearly and effectively prioritize their mitigation efforts.

In contrast, other assessment types such as gap assessments, active assessments, and passive assessments have different focuses. Gap assessments are primarily concerned with identifying discrepancies between current security practices and established standards, rather than exploiting vulnerabilities. Active assessments may involve real-time evaluation of a system's security measures but do not necessarily focus on vulnerability exploitation. Passive assessments typically involve non-intrusive checks, such as reviewing security policies or configurations without actively trying to breach the system.