iSACA Cybersecurity Fundamentals Certification Practice Exam

In vulnerability management, what process follows the identification of vulnerabilities?

1. Asset inventory creation

2. The start of remediation

3. Customer notification

4. End-user training

The correct answer is: The start of remediation

In vulnerability management, the process that follows the identification of vulnerabilities is the start of remediation. Once vulnerabilities are identified, organizations must prioritize them based on factors such as severity, potential impact, and exploitability. Remediation involves addressing these vulnerabilities through various means, which can include applying patches, modifying configurations, implementing compensating controls, or even removing the vulnerable systems from the environment. Engaging in remediation is essential because simply identifying vulnerabilities does not mitigate risk; action must be taken to secure the environment. The aim is to reduce the attack surface and protect sensitive data and systems from potential exploitation. The other processes mentioned, such as asset inventory creation, customer notification, and end-user training, may play important roles in a broader security strategy, but they do not directly follow the identification of vulnerabilities in the specific context of vulnerability management. Asset inventory creation is often a precursor to effective vulnerability management, while customer notification and end-user training may come into play after vulnerabilities have been identified and addressed, particularly if they involve breaches or require user awareness. However, the immediate next step after identifying vulnerabilities is indeed to start the remediation process.