The use of tools simplifies this process. Not only do they usually have a database of assests, threats, and vulnerabilities but they also speed up the entire process.
Using Automated tools for performing a risk assessment can reduce the time it takes to perform them and can simplify the process as well. The better types of these tools include a well-researched threat population and associated statistics. Using one of these tools virtually ensures that no relevant threat is overlooked, and associated risks are accepted as a consequence of the threat being overlooked.
In most situations, the assessor will turn to the use of a variety of automated tools to assist in the vulnerability assessment process. These tools contain extensive databases of specific known vulnerabilities as well as the ability to analyze system and network configuration information to predict where a particular system might be vulnerable to different types of attacks. There are many different types of tools currently available to address a wide variety of vulnerability assessment needs. Some tools will examine a system from the viewpoint of the network, seeking to determine if a system can be compromised by a remote attacker exploiting available services on a particular host system. These tools will test for open ports listening for connections, known vulnerabilities in common services, and known operating system exploits.
Michael Gregg says:
Automated tools are available that minimize the effort of the manual process. These programs enable users to rerun the analysis with different parameters to answer "what-ifs." They perform calculations quickly and can be used to estimate future expected losses easier than performing the calculations manually.
Shon Harris in her latest book says:
The gathered data can be reused, greatly reducing the time required to perform subsequent analyses. The risk analysis team can also print reports and comprehensive graphs to present to management.
Reference(s) used for this question:
Hernandez CISSP, Steven (2012-12-21). Official (ISC)2 Guide to the CISSP CBK, Third Edition ((ISC)2 Press) (Kindle Locations 4655-4661). Auerbach Publications. Kindle Edition.
and
CISSP Exam Cram 2 by Michael Gregg
and
Harris, Shon (2012-10-25). CISSP All-in-One Exam Guide, 6th Edition (Kindle Locations 2333-2335). McGraw-Hill. Kindle Edition.
The following answers are incorrect:
Much of the data gathered during the review cannot be reused for subsequent analysis. Is incorrect because the data can be reused for later analysis.
Automated methodologies require minimal training and knowledge of risk analysis. Is incorrect because it is not the best answer. While a minimal amount of training and knowledge is needed, the analysis should still be performed by skilled professionals.
Most software tools have user interfaces that are easy to use and does not require any training. Is incorrect because it is not the best answer. While many of the user interfaces are easy to use it is better if the tool already has information built into it. There is always a training curve when any product is being used for the first time.
