What does CVSS stand for in cybersecurity?

CVSS stands for Common Vulnerability Scoring System, which is a standardized framework used to assess the severity of vulnerabilities in software and systems. This system helps organizations prioritize their responses to vulnerabilities based on various factors such as exploitability, impact, and the scope of the vulnerability.

The CVSS provides a numerical score ranging from 0 to 10 that reflects the severity level of a vulnerability. This score is divided into different categories, including base score, temporal score, and environmental score, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of how a vulnerability may affect an organization. As a result, CVSS is widely adopted in the cybersecurity community because it facilitates communication about risks, aids in risk management, and guides decision-making processes regarding vulnerability remediation.

By using the CVSS, organizations can assess vulnerabilities consistently and compare them effectively, leading to a more structured and informed approach to vulnerability management and risk mitigation. This systemic approach is crucial for maintaining robust cybersecurity practices in an ever-evolving threat landscape.