What process involves reconnaissance, scanning networks, and exploiting vulnerabilities?

The chosen answer is penetration testing, which is a key process in the field of cybersecurity. It is designed to assess the security of a system by simulating an attack from malicious outsiders or insiders. During penetration testing, security professionals perform reconnaissance to gather information about the target system. This initial phase helps identify potential vulnerabilities.

Following reconnaissance, the testers conduct scanning, which involves network and system probing to discover open ports, services, and configurations that could be exploited. Once vulnerabilities are detected, the next step is exploiting these weaknesses to determine the extent to which an attacker could gain unauthorized access or manipulate the system.

The purpose of penetration testing is not only to identify vulnerabilities but also to evaluate the effectiveness of security controls in place. This helps organizations strengthen their defenses and protect sensitive data more effectively. The hands-on approach and systematic methodology involved in penetration testing differentiate it from other options, making it a critical element in proactive cybersecurity strategies.