A technician identifies a vulnerability on a server and applies a software patch. Which of the following should be the next step in the remediation process?
Validation involves verifying if the applied patch has effectively resolved the vulnerability and has not caused any unintended disruptions to the server's functionality.
We always test patches in a sandbox environment before applying them. After the patch is applied, we do validation (validate that there are no issues with that device and anything it interfaces with). "C" is my answer.
The correct next step in the remediation process after applying a software patch is:
C. Validation
After applying a patch, it is essential to validate that the patch has been successfully applied and that the vulnerability has been effectively mitigated. This step ensures that the system is functioning as expected and that no new issues have been introduced as a result of the patch.
Testing (A) typically occurs before implementation, while rollback (D) is a contingency plan if the patch causes issues. Implementation (B) refers to the act of applying the patch itself.
After the patch or fix is installed, the next step in the remediation process is testing, which is intended to verify that the patch addresses the vulnerability without negatively impacting other systems or functionality. This testing also ensures that no new issues are introduced as a result of the patch installation.
Initially my answer was C, but this comes from ComTIA CertMaster. Patch testing should primarily involve testing a patch on a single isolated system to determine whether a patch causes problems, such as software crashes or system instability. Additionally, testing should validate that issues addressed by the software patch work as expected—for example, a patch successfully removes a vulnerability. A common way to test a patch is by setting up a non-production environment hosting like-for-like mission-critical applications, including enterprise applications and networking systems (where available). Doing this allows patches to be deployed by infrastructure teams, validated by software support staff, and assessed by security teams before deployment into the production environment.
While validation is important, it typically follows testing. Validation ensures that the remediation process is complete and successful, but you need to test first to confirm that the patch works as intended.
After applying a patch, it is crucial to test the system to ensure that the patch has been applied correctly and that it has effectively remediated the identified vulnerability without introducing new issues. This step helps verify that the patch works as intended and that the system remains stable and secure.
Testing typically refers to the initial phase after applying a patch where the system is checked to ensure that the patch has been applied correctly and that it doesn't cause any immediate issues. It usually involves running specific tests or scripts designed to confirm that the system behaves as expected after the patch.
Validation is a broader step that involves verifying that the patch has not only been applied correctly but also effectively resolves the vulnerability without introducing new issues. It may include more extensive testing, reviewing logs, and ensuring that all aspects of the system are functioning correctly post-remediation.
Sequence of Steps in the Remediation Process:
Implementation: Apply the patch or fix.
Testing: Test the system to ensure the patch works correctly.
Validation: Validate that the patch has effectively resolved the issue.
Rollback (if needed): Rollback the changes if testing or validation shows that the patch caused problems.
Conclusion:
After the patch has been applied (implementation), the next step should indeed be Testing (Option A) to verify that the patch has been applied correctly and does not introduce new issues. Validation (Option C) is a critical step that follows testing to confirm that the vulnerability has been fully addressed.
There is no "validation" in the vulnerability management lifecycle. Per the CompTIA CySA+ Study Guide: Exam CS0-003, Third Edition, there is only Detection, Remediation, and Testing. I'm going with B.
Additionally, testing should validate that issues addressed by the software patch work as expected—for example, a patch successfully removes a vulnerability.
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