What does Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) identify?

Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) is a system used to identify and catalog publicly known cybersecurity vulnerabilities. The main purpose of CVE is to provide a reference-method for publicly known information security vulnerabilities and exposures.

CVE specifically targets vulnerabilities found in software and operating systems, enabling security professionals to mitigate risks by addressing these specific issues. Each CVE entry consists of an identifier and a description that helps teams understand the nature of the vulnerability and often includes references to associated weaknesses and known exploits.

Understanding this context clarifies the importance of having a systematic way to identify and discuss vulnerabilities in software and operating systems, making it easier for developers, IT professionals, and cybersecurity experts to communicate about security threats effectively. This is crucial for maintaining secure environments and enhancing cybersecurity posture across various platforms.