What is the purpose of penetration testing?

The purpose of penetration testing is to detect system vulnerabilities. This process involves simulating attacks on a computer system, network, or web application to identify security weaknesses that could be exploited by malicious actors. By conducting penetration testing, organizations can proactively discover and address vulnerabilities before they can be utilized in a real-world attack, thereby enhancing their overall security posture.

Penetration testing goes beyond merely identifying weaknesses; it involves checking the effectiveness of existing security controls and gauging the organization's response to simulated attacks. The findings from these tests inform necessary improvements to security measures, helping to protect sensitive information and maintain compliance with regulatory standards.

Other activities mentioned, such as monitoring employee performance, setting up firewalls, or managing user access controls, do not directly relate to the specific goals of penetration testing. While these are important aspects of an overall security strategy, they serve different purposes and do not encompass the primary aim of identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities through simulated attacks.