Attack Path Analysis
1-minute read
What it is
Attack Path Analysis is the process of identifying how an attacker could move from an initial external exposure to a critical system or asset. Rather than assessing vulnerabilities in isolation, it focuses on realistic attack chains formed by combining misconfigurations, exposed services, weak credentials, and trust relationships.
Why it matters
Most real-world breaches do not rely on a single vulnerability. Attackers exploit paths, not individual flaws. A low-severity issue can become critical when it enables lateral movement or access escalation.
How to reduce risk
- Maintain visibility of all internet-facing assets
- Identify trust relationships between systems
- Prioritize exposures that connect to sensitive data
- Reassess attack paths continuously as infrastructure changes