What is the main function of a vulnerability assessment?

The main function of a vulnerability assessment is to identify, quantify, and prioritize vulnerabilities in a system. This process involves systematically scanning and evaluating systems, networks, and applications to uncover weaknesses that could be exploited by attackers. By identifying these vulnerabilities, organizations can understand the potential risk they pose and prioritize remediation efforts based on the severity and likelihood of exploitation.

This assessment is crucial for maintaining security posture, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the current vulnerabilities, which enables an organization to take informed actions to mitigate risks effectively. It does not directly involve repairing the vulnerabilities or implementing patches; rather, it lays the groundwork for these actions by providing detailed insights into what needs attention and in what order.