Which method is considered a proactive security measure in network management?

Implementing continuous monitoring is recognized as a proactive security measure in network management because it allows organizations to detect and address potential security threats before they can escalate into actual incidents. Continuous monitoring involves the ongoing observation of network activities, system behaviors, and configurations to identify anomalies or deviations from expected norms. This enables organizations to maintain an up-to-date understanding of their security posture in real time, which is essential for preventing attacks or breaches.

While regularly updating firewall rules is important for securing a network, it is generally a reactive measure that responds to evolving threats rather than continuously monitoring for them. Conducting vulnerability assessments is a valuable strategy for identifying weaknesses, but it is often a periodic activity rather than an ongoing process. Establishing incident response protocols is critical for disaster recovery and mitigation; however, it doesn't actively prevent incidents but rather prepares for them post-occurrence. In contrast, continuous monitoring is inherently proactive, providing the necessary insights to thwart potential security incidents before they happen.