What is the primary intention of performing a vulnerability scan?

The primary intention of performing a vulnerability scan is to identify weaknesses in a system that could be exploited. Vulnerability scans are systematic assessments that analyze the security posture of systems, applications, and networks by looking for security vulnerabilities such as outdated software, configuration errors, and unpatched applications.

Identifying these weaknesses is crucial for proactively managing risk, as it allows organizations to implement mitigations before a potential attacker can exploit these vulnerabilities. Understanding and addressing these weaknesses helps improve overall security, ensuring that appropriate measures are taken to safeguard sensitive information and maintain compliance with regulations and policies.

While other options may seem relevant, they do not capture the primary focus of a vulnerability scan. The scans are not aimed primarily at checking user compliance with security policies, improving system performance, or assessing network connection quality, but rather at uncovering security threats that could enable unauthorized access or data breaches. This proactive approach is essential for effective risk management in cybersecurity.