tion 1 (SO 1, AC 2, AC 3, AC 4, AC 5)

Question

I. Explain the reasons for the test that you want to conduct.​​ ​ (2)





II. You are required to select an appropriate test procedure for the networked IT systems. (2)





III. Identify and describe factors that may affect the choice of the test procedure. (4)







IV. List the resources required for the test procedure that you selected.​​​(6)











V. Explain how the testing procedure that you selected complies with regulatory, licensing, contractual and health & safety.​​​​​​​ (4)

Answer 1

I. Reasons for the Test

1. Performance Evaluation: Conducting the test allows us to evaluate the performance of the networked IT systems under various conditions, ensuring that they meet required service levels, operational efficiency, and performance metrics.

2. Security Assessment: The test helps identify vulnerabilities and security weaknesses within the networked IT systems, thus enabling proactive measures to safeguard sensitive data and maintain business continuity.

II. Appropriate Test Procedure

An appropriate test procedure for networked IT systems would be a Penetration Test. This involves simulating cyberattacks on the network to identify potential security weaknesses, assess the effectiveness of security measures, and provide insights into areas requiring improvement.

III. Factors Affecting the Choice of Test Procedure

1. Regulatory Compliance: Different industries may have specific regulations, such as GDPR or HIPAA, that dictate the methods and extent of testing, affecting the choice of the procedure.

2. Scope of Networked Systems: The complexity, architecture, and size of the networked IT systems can determine the suitability of a particular testing method, as not all methods are appropriate for every environment.

3. Resources Availability: Availability of tools, expertise, and personnel skilled in executing the chosen testing procedure may significantly dictate which method can be feasibly implemented.

4. Business Objectives: Organizations may have specific goals regarding security, performance, or compliance, which can direct the testing strategy to align with broader business objectives.

IV. Resources Required for the Test Procedure

1. Testing Tools: Specialized software and tools (such as penetration testing suites, vulnerability scanners, etc.) to conduct the test effectively.

2. Hardware: Adequate hardware resources, such as servers or laptops, to run testing tools without affecting the live network.

3. Testing Environment: A test environment that mimics the production environment where the tests can be conducted without disrupting actual operations.

4. Documentation Resources: Access to network diagrams, security policies, and previous audit findings to guide the testing process.

5. Qualified Personnel: Skilled cybersecurity professionals (like ethical hackers or security analysts) to perform and analyze the results of the tests.

6. Time Allocation: Sufficient time allotted for planning, executing, and reviewing the testing procedure to ensure thoroughness and accuracy.

V. Compliance of the Testing Procedure

1. Regulatory Compliance: The selected testing procedure must adhere to relevant laws such as GDPR, which requires businesses to protect personal data. This involves ensuring testing data is anonymized and that proper consent is obtained for any necessary data handling.

2. Licensing Requirements: Tools and software used for testing must be properly licensed. This ensures compliance with software agreements and avoids legal issues associated with unauthorized software use.

3. Contractual Compliance: If the organization has contracts with stakeholders that stipulate security standards or testing procedures, the chosen test must align with these contractual obligations to avoid breaches of agreement.

4. Health & Safety Standards: Appropriate measures must be put in place to ensure the mental and physical safety of personnel during testing, including exposure to potentially harmful data breaches or security flaws. This may involve establishing a clear protocol for conducting tests in a way that minimizes risk.

By considering these factors, the testing procedure can be implemented responsibly, abiding by necessary regulations and guidelines.