What does a vulnerability assessment typically aim to evaluate?

A vulnerability assessment primarily focuses on identifying and evaluating security weaknesses within an information system. This process involves systematically reviewing aspects such as network security, application security, and system configurations to uncover potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited by adversaries. By identifying these weaknesses, organizations can prioritize their remediation efforts to strengthen their security posture and protect sensitive information.

While options related to physical security, employee training compliance, and the effectiveness of security software are important aspects of a comprehensive security program, they do not specifically align with the primary goal of a vulnerability assessment. The latter is uniquely concerned with understanding the technical and procedural vulnerabilities in the information systems themselves, which is essential for proactive risk management and mitigation.