Which of the following best describes the function of a vulnerability scanner?

A vulnerability scanner is specifically designed to identify and evaluate security vulnerabilities present in systems, networks, and applications. Its primary role involves scanning a target system or the entire network for known security issues, misconfigurations, and other vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious actors. This is accomplished by using a comprehensive database of known vulnerabilities and the tools typically check for the presence of these vulnerabilities.

For instance, when a vulnerability scanner runs against a system, it queries the software and configurations to see if they are subject to known vulnerabilities, often based on Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) listings. After the scan, it provides a report highlighting the vulnerabilities detected and typically assigns a severity rating, enabling organizations to prioritize remediation efforts.

This function differs significantly from other options. Simulating attacks on systems is a function of penetration testing tools, which actively attempt to exploit vulnerabilities, while encryption protects sensitive data rather than identifies vulnerabilities. Monitoring network traffic focuses on observing data flows for suspicious activity but does not evaluate the vulnerabilities of systems. Thus, the best description for the function of a vulnerability scanner is its ability to identify and evaluate security vulnerabilities.