Vulnerability scanning tools like Qualys are primarily used for what purpose?

Vulnerability scanning tools, such as Qualys, are designed specifically to assess potential security weaknesses within an organization’s network and systems. They perform automated scans to identify vulnerabilities in software, operating systems, and network configurations. By running a vulnerability scan, organizations can uncover issues such as outdated software, missing patches, misconfigurations, or known security flaws that could be exploited by attackers.

This proactive approach allows organizations to remediate vulnerabilities before they can be exploited, contributing to the overall security posture. Identifying these weaknesses is crucial for maintaining compliance with security standards and regulations, as well as enhancing the organization’s defense against cyber threats.

The other options do not align with the primary function of vulnerability scanning tools. For instance, network design planning focuses on the architecture and layout of a network rather than identifying vulnerabilities. Identifying archived documents relates to information retrieval, which is outside the scope of vulnerability scanning. Monitoring traffic flow pertains to network management and performance rather than assessing security weaknesses. Therefore, the primary purpose of vulnerability scanning tools is indeed the assessment of potential security weaknesses.