What is a potential outcome of effective penetration testing?

Effective penetration testing serves as a proactive security measure designed to identify vulnerabilities and security gaps within a system or network before they can be exploited by malicious actors. By simulating attacks, penetration testers can uncover weaknesses related to security configurations, outdated software, and potential entry points for attackers. This process allows organizations to address and remediate these vulnerabilities, thereby strengthening their overall security posture and preventing breaches that could lead to data loss or financial damage.

While increased network speed, reduction of employee turnover, and improved software redundancy might be beneficial aspects of an organization's operation, they are not direct outcomes derived from the effective implementation of penetration testing. The primary purpose of this testing is to enhance security by identifying and addressing gaps, making the identification of security gaps before exploitation the most relevant and significant outcome in this context.