What is meant by a security assessment?

A security assessment refers to a comprehensive evaluation of an organization’s security policies, procedures, and resources. This process involves a thorough analysis of how well an organization's security measures are protecting its information systems and data. It identifies vulnerabilities and assesses the effectiveness of existing security controls, ensuring that potential risks are understood and managed effectively.

This type of assessment may include evaluating technical controls (like firewalls and antivirus software), administrative controls (like security policies and training programs), and physical security measures. By providing a holistic view of the security posture, a security assessment helps organizations make informed decisions about improving their security strategies and mitigating risks effectively.

The other options do not capture the full scope of what a security assessment entails. A random check of security practices lacks the depth and thoroughness required for a meaningful evaluation. A mock incident response drill tests preparedness for incidents but does not evaluate the overall security environment. Lastly, only reviewing firewalls and antivirus software is too narrow to represent a complete security assessment, as it omits other critical aspects of an organization's security landscape.