Which of the following best describes a vulnerability?

A vulnerability is best described as a weakness that can be exploited by threats. This definition captures the essence of what a vulnerability represents in the context of cybersecurity. Vulnerabilities can exist in software, hardware, or procedural implementations and denote any point in a system that could potentially be targeted by an attack. When a threat, which is an actor or condition that exploits the vulnerability, interacts with it, it can lead to unauthorized access or damage, resulting in various security incidents.

Understanding vulnerabilities is crucial for developing effective protections and defenses against potential attacks. By identifying and addressing these weaknesses, organizations can minimize their risk exposure and enhance their security posture. The other options do not accurately reflect the nature of a vulnerability; features that enhance performance, tools for detecting malware, or measures to protect data integrity address different aspects of security or system functionality, rather than defining what a vulnerability is.