Which two actions should a system administrator prioritize to address potential misconfigurations in cryptographic techniques?

Prioritizing the regular updating and patching of cryptographic software, along with conducting periodic penetration testing, is crucial to addressing potential misconfigurations in cryptographic techniques. This approach directly targets the security of cryptographic systems by ensuring that any vulnerabilities, especially those identified in cryptographic algorithms or implementations, are promptly addressed through updates. Keeping cryptographic software up to date is vital because vulnerabilities can emerge over time, and timely patches can mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Additionally, penetration testing systematically evaluates the cryptographic mechanisms in place, revealing any weaknesses or misconfigurations that could be exploited by attackers. This proactive assessment not only highlights existing vulnerabilities but also validates the effectiveness of the cryptographic controls applied.

In contrast, while training and education are important for overall security awareness, they do not directly resolve existing misconfigurations in cryptographic implementations. Installing antivirus software primarily protects against malware but does not specifically address cryptographic misconfigurations. Revising user access policies is critical for managing user permissions and minimizing insider threats but does not focus on the technical aspects of cryptographic security. Therefore, the combination of software updates and penetration testing is the most effective strategy to ensure the integrity and security of cryptographic operations.