What is the informal term used for an assessment of system vulnerabilities?

The term "vulnerability analysis" refers to the process of identifying, quantifying, and prioritizing vulnerabilities within a system. This informal term captures the essence of evaluating weaknesses in computer systems, networks, or applications that could be exploited by threats. Conducting a vulnerability analysis is crucial for an organization to understand its security posture and to take proactive measures to mitigate potential risks.

In contrast, network mapping involves creating a visual representation of a network's layout, which does not directly address system vulnerabilities but helps in understanding network architecture. Security auditing focuses on the assessment of actual security practices, policies, and compliance with regulations, providing a broader evaluation than just vulnerabilities. Performance benchmarking measures the performance efficiency of systems or components, not their security flaws. Therefore, vulnerability analysis is the most accurate term for the assessment of system vulnerabilities.