What is the benefit of using vulnerability scanners compared to manual testing?

Using vulnerability scanners compared to manual testing is beneficial because they typically cause less disruption to operations. Vulnerability scanners are automated tools designed to run assessments of systems and networks efficiently and often without the need for extensive downtime or interruptions in service.

Automated scanning can be scheduled to run during off-peak hours, which helps in minimizing the impact on daily operations. This is especially valuable in environments where continuous availability is crucial, as it allows security assessments to be performed without impeding business functionality.

Manual testing, on the other hand, may require direct interaction with systems or applications, which can lead to service interruptions or require systems to be taken offline. While manual testing may provide a more personalized approach and can uncover issues that automated scanners might miss, the operational disruption is a significant factor that makes vulnerability scanners advantageous in many situations.

The other options, while they may have some merit in specific contexts, do not present the same level of consistent operational efficiency seen with vulnerability scanners.