Cisco Cyber Security Practice Exam

What practice helps maintain security through regular software updates?

1. Conduct software testing prior to launch

2. Ignore minor updates

3. Make upgrades optional for users

4. Rely solely on user feedback

The correct answer is: Conduct software testing prior to launch

Regular software updates are critical for maintaining security, as they often include patches for vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers. Conducting software testing prior to launch ensures that new updates are thoroughly vetted for security flaws and that they function as intended without introducing new vulnerabilities. This practice not only helps in identifying potential issues before they affect users but also reinforces a proactive security stance. By ensuring that all updates are tested and reliable, organizations can maintain the integrity and security of their systems. In contrast, ignoring minor updates can leave the system exposed to known vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cyber threats. Making upgrades optional for users can lead to inconsistencies, where some users may not update their software, thus creating a security gap. Relying solely on user feedback does not guarantee that vulnerabilities will be identified in a timely manner, as users may not possess the technical expertise to recognize security issues or may not report them. Overall, the emphasis on thorough testing before launching software updates embodies a key element of effective cybersecurity practices.