What is the next step following a vulnerability assessment in the risk management process?

Following a vulnerability assessment in the risk management process, conducting a risk assessment is essential as it allows for a deeper analysis of the identified vulnerabilities. The risk assessment involves evaluating the likelihood and impact of potential threats exploiting those vulnerabilities. This process helps prioritize risks based on their severity and informs decision-making regarding which vulnerabilities to address first.

During the risk assessment, factors such as threat intelligence, existing controls, and the current security posture are considered to estimate the overall risk level associated with each vulnerability. This step is critical for understanding not just what vulnerabilities exist, but also how they could affect the assets at risk and the organization as a whole. The insights gained from this assessment guide the next steps, including determining appropriate countermeasures or conducting a cost/benefit analysis to evaluate the feasibility of implementing security controls.