What is the difference between a vulnerability assessment and a penetration test?

A vulnerability assessment focuses on identifying and evaluating security weaknesses within a system, network, or application. It systematically scans for known vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and areas that could be susceptible to attacks but does not actively exploit these weaknesses. The purpose of this assessment is to provide an understanding of the security posture and a basis for risk management.

In contrast, a penetration test goes a step further by not only identifying vulnerabilities but also actively exploiting them to determine the level of risk they pose. This type of testing simulates real-world attacks to uncover how effective security measures are. By taking this approach, penetration testing can provide insights into the potential impact of vulnerabilities when exploited, which allows organizations to prioritize their remediation efforts effectively.

The distinction lies in the depth of evaluation and the intention behind it. While the assessment aims to catalog vulnerabilities, the penetration test aims to demonstrate the exploitation of these vulnerabilities and assess their impact. This fundamental difference indicates that the two processes serve different purposes in a comprehensive security strategy, making the first choice the accurate one.