Which assessment method focuses on understanding system architecture and data flow?

The focus on understanding system architecture and data flow aligns with the concept of a passive assessment. This method emphasizes observation and analysis of the existing system without making changes or actively probing for vulnerabilities. By examining data flows and the architecture, practitioners can identify how data is transmitted and processed, which is crucial for understanding potential cybersecurity risks and vulnerabilities.

In various assessment contexts, a passive assessment allows for a comprehensive view of the system's design and operational characteristics, leading to insights that are critical for subsequent risk evaluation and mitigation planning. This deep understanding aids in recognizing how components interconnect, which is essential for identifying risks associated with data handling and communication among various parts of the Industrial Automation and Control Systems (IACS).

In contrast, other methods focus on different aspects: Cyber Risk Assessment generally involves a broader analysis of risk factors without the specific emphasis on architecture; Gap Assessment typically identifies discrepancies between current security posture and desired standards; Penetration Testing simulates attacks to find vulnerabilities but does not focus on architecture or data flow. Thus, passive assessment clearly stands out as the method most directly associated with examining system architecture and data flow.