In cybersecurity, what is an attack vector?

An attack vector refers specifically to the method or pathway that an attacker uses to gain unauthorized access to a system or network, making option B the correct choice. This pathway can include various techniques, such as exploiting vulnerabilities in software, phishing attacks, social engineering, or leveraging weaknesses in network configurations. Understanding attack vectors is crucial for cybersecurity professionals to develop appropriate defenses against potential threats and to implement security measures effectively.

Other options, while related to the general topic of cybersecurity, do not accurately define an attack vector. For instance, data compression pertains to reducing file sizes and is not relevant to unauthorized access. Similarly, encryption algorithms are designed to secure data but do not fall under the category of attack vectors; they are tools to enhance security, rather than methods of breaching it. A software vulnerability represents a flaw or weakness in a program but does not in itself describe the method of exploitation that characterizes an attack vector. Thus, understanding the specific meaning of an attack vector is essential for devising strategies to protect systems from breaches.