Which approach best addresses significant system vulnerabilities found in a network scan?

Which approach best addresses significant system vulnerabilities found in a network scan?

• A. All significant vulnerabilities must be mitigated
• B. Treatment based on threat, impact, and cost
• C. Compensating controls for major vulnerabilities
• D. Propose mitigation options for approval

Answer: (B)

The approach that best addresses significant system vulnerabilities found in a network scan is treatment based on threat, impact, and cost. This method involves prioritizing vulnerabilities based on the level of threat they pose, the potential impact on the organization if they were exploited, and the cost associated with mitigating them. By analyzing these factors, organizations can make informed decisions about which vulnerabilities to address first, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively. This approach aligns with risk management principles, where the goal is to minimize risk while balancing the costs and impacts associated with mitigation efforts. By considering the severity of the threat alongside potential financial implications, an organization can develop a risk response strategy that duly addresses the most critical vulnerabilities while managing the overall security posture in a cost-effective manner. Mitigating all significant vulnerabilities may not be practical or necessary, as some vulnerabilities may pose lower risks. Implementing compensating controls could be a viable approach, but it typically serves as a temporary measure rather than a comprehensive solution. Proposing mitigation options for approval might be part of the process, but it lacks the targeted analysis of prioritization that comes from evaluating threat, impact, and cost. Therefore, the most effective and strategic approach to addressing significant system vulnerabilities is to focus on these three critical factors.

The approach that best addresses significant system vulnerabilities found in a network scan is treatment based on threat, impact, and cost. This method involves prioritizing vulnerabilities based on the level of threat they pose, the potential impact on the organization if they were exploited, and the cost associated with mitigating them. By analyzing these factors, organizations can make informed decisions about which vulnerabilities to address first, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively.

This approach aligns with risk management principles, where the goal is to minimize risk while balancing the costs and impacts associated with mitigation efforts. By considering the severity of the threat alongside potential financial implications, an organization can develop a risk response strategy that duly addresses the most critical vulnerabilities while managing the overall security posture in a cost-effective manner.

Mitigating all significant vulnerabilities may not be practical or necessary, as some vulnerabilities may pose lower risks. Implementing compensating controls could be a viable approach, but it typically serves as a temporary measure rather than a comprehensive solution. Proposing mitigation options for approval might be part of the process, but it lacks the targeted analysis of prioritization that comes from evaluating threat, impact, and cost. Therefore, the most effective and strategic approach to addressing significant system vulnerabilities is to focus on these three critical factors.