Information Technology Specialist (ITS) Cybersecurity Practice Exam

What term refers to the combined sum of all potential threat vectors in defense-in-depth security?

1. Threat landscape

2. Attack surface

3. Risk matrix

4. Security protocol

The correct answer is: Attack surface

The term that refers to the combined sum of all potential threat vectors in defense-in-depth security is the attack surface. The attack surface encompasses all the points in a system or network where an unauthorized user can attempt to enter data or extract data. This includes physical entry points, network vulnerabilities, application weaknesses, and user actions that could be exploited maliciously. Understanding the attack surface is crucial in cybersecurity as it allows organizations to identify all possible vulnerabilities from which they can be targeted. By analyzing the attack surface, security professionals can implement layered defenses and prioritize their security measures to effectively reduce exposure to potential threats. In contrast, the threat landscape involves a broader consideration of all potential threats and adversaries without specifically focusing on vulnerabilities. A risk matrix is a tool used to assess and prioritize risks based on their probability and impact, while a security protocol outlines specific rules or procedures for defending systems but does not refer to the sum of potential threat vectors.