Which term is used for the security testing approach that simulates an attack by attempting to breach a network?

Which term is used for the security testing approach that simulates an attack by attempting to breach a network?

• A. Collusion
• B. Contract
• C. Penetration Test
• D. Going Concern Principle

Answer: (C)

The best term is penetration testing. This describes a security testing approach where authorized testers actively try to breach a network, using techniques and tools similar to those of real attackers to see if access, data, or services can be compromised. The goal is to identify exploitable weaknesses and verify the effectiveness of defenses, detection, and response in a controlled setting. Collusion is about secret cooperation to commit fraud, not a testing method. A contract is a legal agreement between parties, not a security testing approach. The going concern principle is an accounting assumption about a business continuing to operate, unrelated to how security testing is performed.

The best term is penetration testing. This describes a security testing approach where authorized testers actively try to breach a network, using techniques and tools similar to those of real attackers to see if access, data, or services can be compromised. The goal is to identify exploitable weaknesses and verify the effectiveness of defenses, detection, and response in a controlled setting.

Collusion is about secret cooperation to commit fraud, not a testing method. A contract is a legal agreement between parties, not a security testing approach. The going concern principle is an accounting assumption about a business continuing to operate, unrelated to how security testing is performed.