Which process involves systematically identifying security weaknesses?

The process of systematically identifying security weaknesses is known as a vulnerability assessment. This involves a comprehensive examination of an organization’s systems, applications, and networks to identify any vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers.

In a vulnerability assessment, tools and techniques are employed to detect these weaknesses, which might include software bugs, configuration errors, or inadequate security policies. The primary goal is to provide an organization with a clear understanding of its security posture and to prioritize which vulnerabilities need to be addressed based on their potential impact and exploitability.

This process is typically more focused on the weaknesses themselves, rather than the broader context of risk or threats. For example, while risk assessment considers the potential impact and likelihood of security incidents based on identified risks, a vulnerability assessment hones in specifically on the flaws in the system that could lead to those risks.

In summary, a vulnerability assessment is the correct answer because it specifically targets the identification of weaknesses in an organization’s security framework, ensuring that they can be identified, analyzed, and remediated effectively.