Which framework provides a comprehensive process for conducting penetration tests?

The Penetration Testing Execution Standard (PTES) provides a comprehensive framework for conducting penetration tests. It outlines an extensive process that security professionals can follow to ensure thorough and effective testing. This framework includes various phases such as pre-engagement, information gathering, threat modeling, vulnerability analysis, exploitation, post-exploitation, reporting, and communication. By adhering to PTES, testers can maintain consistency and quality in their assessments, ensuring that they address the necessary aspects of a penetration test and provide actionable results.

In contrast, the other options do not specifically serve as a comprehensive framework for penetration testing. The Risk Management Framework focuses on the security categorization, risk assessment, and continuous monitoring of information systems but does not specifically address the hands-on testing aspect. The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) is utilized for evaluating and classifying the severity of vulnerabilities but lacks a structured approach for penetration testing processes. Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) are a set of U.S. government standards that pertain to the security of federal information systems but do not provide guidelines for conducting penetration tests at a technical level.