After conducting a threat and vulnerability analysis, what is the BEST method to determine whether suggested controls should be implemented?

The best method for determining whether suggested controls should be implemented after conducting a threat and vulnerability analysis is a cost-benefit analysis. This approach involves assessing the anticipated benefits of implementing the controls against their associated costs. By doing so, organizations can make informed decisions about whether the potential risk mitigation justifies the financial investment.

A cost-benefit analysis allows decision-makers to quantify the expected reduction in risk (such as potential losses from security incidents) and compare it with the costs of implementing the suggested controls. This ensures that resources are allocated efficiently, focusing on measures that provide the most significant benefit relative to their cost. Ultimately, it helps in prioritizing security investments based on both financial viability and the level of risk associated with different vulnerabilities.

Other options also have their place in risk management but do not directly facilitate the decision-making process regarding the implementation of specific controls in the same comprehensive manner. An annual loss expectancy calculation might provide insight into potential financial losses due to threats but does not incorporate the costs of the controls themselves. A comparison of the cost of an intrusion prevention system (IPS) and a firewall to business system costs might not provide a holistic view of overall risk versus potential benefits. A business impact analysis helps understand the effects of disruptions but does not specifically guide the