What is the purpose of penetration testing?

• A. To create secure software
• B. To identify vulnerabilities in systems by simulating cyber attacks
• C. To monitor network traffic
• D. To prevent unauthorized access

Answer: (B)

The purpose of penetration testing is to identify vulnerabilities in systems by simulating cyber attacks. This proactive approach involves ethical hackers who assess the security posture of an organization by attempting to exploit weaknesses in its systems, applications, or networks. The primary goal is to uncover potential security flaws before malicious actors can exploit them. By simulating real-world attack scenarios, penetration testing provides an organization with valuable insights into where their security measures may fall short and what steps can be taken to strengthen their defenses.

The insights gained from penetration testing enable organizations to prioritize remediation efforts, enhance their overall security strategies, and ultimately protect sensitive data from breaches.