What outcome is desired from conducting security control tests?

The desired outcome from conducting security control tests is the verification of control effectiveness. This is crucial because security controls are implemented to mitigate identified risks and protect the organization's assets. Verifying their effectiveness ensures that controls are functioning as intended and that they adequately address the security requirements they were designed for.

Effective testing provides insights into whether the existing controls are capable of thwarting potential threats or if adjustments are necessary. By validating controls, organizations can ensure they are not only compliant with policies but also capable of defending against real-world attacks. This continuous assessment allows for the identification of weaknesses before they can be exploited, ensuring the overall security posture remains robust.

The emphasis on verification as the outcome reflects the core objective of security assessments: to ensure that all implemented security measures work harmoniously to protect the organization's information and systems while supporting compliance and risk management objectives.