Information Technology Specialist (ITS) Cybersecurity Practice Exam

Which method is commonly used to identify potential vulnerabilities in a computer system?

1. Malware analysis

2. Security audits

3. Penetration testing

4. Patch management

The correct answer is: Penetration testing

Penetration testing is a widely recognized method for identifying vulnerabilities in a computer system. This approach involves simulating cyber attacks on the system from a malicious outsider's perspective to discover any security weaknesses that could be exploited. The primary goal of penetration testing is to determine how far an attacker could gain access and what sensitive information could be compromised. During penetration testing, various techniques are employed to assess the system's security controls, including vulnerability scanning, social engineering tactics, and testing of security measures like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and authentication methods. The information gained from these tests is crucial for organizations, as it enables them to patch vulnerabilities before these weaknesses are exploited in real attacks. This proactive testing approach stands in contrast to other methods, which while valuable in their own right, serve different functions. For instance, malware analysis focuses on understanding and mitigating already existing threats; security audits assess compliance with policies and regulations, providing an overview of security practices but not necessarily identifying potential vulnerabilities directly; and patch management specifically addresses keeping systems updated with the latest security patches to prevent exploitation, rather than actively probing for weaknesses.