What does a vulnerability assessment focus on?

A vulnerability assessment focuses specifically on identifying and classifying vulnerabilities present in systems. This involves a systematic evaluation of an organization’s information systems to discover potential weaknesses that could be exploited by attackers. Through various techniques, such as scanning, manual testing, and using vulnerability databases, assessments aim to provide a clear picture of vulnerabilities' severity, which helps organizations prioritize their remediation efforts.

The process encompasses evaluating the configuration of systems, software, and networks to ensure that proper controls are in place and that any outdated software or misconfigurations are identified. This foundational step is critical in improving overall security posture, allowing organizations to address vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.

The other options relate to different aspects of cybersecurity. Exploiting system weaknesses pertains more to penetration testing rather than vulnerability assessments. Developing security policies and procedures concerns the strategic framework of security practices rather than the tactical identification of vulnerabilities. Monitoring network traffic for anomalies focuses on detection and response capabilities which is separate from the initial assessment phase aimed at identifying existing vulnerabilities.