What protocol must federal agencies leverage for monitoring security posture using vulnerability scanning tools?

The correct answer is the Security Content Automation Protocol (SCAP). SCAP is a suite of specifications that provides a standardized way for automated vulnerability management, measurement, and compliance evaluation. This protocol facilitates the monitoring of security posture in federal agencies by enabling them to consistently assess the security of their systems and identify vulnerabilities through automated tools.

SCAP integrates various security standards and protocols, allowing organizations to utilize vulnerability scanning tools effectively. It defines a framework for the construction of security content while ensuring that the information is structured and machine-readable, making automation feasible.

By leveraging SCAP-compliant tools, agencies can automate the assessment of their security configuration, compliance, and vulnerability detection. This, in turn, helps streamline the process of maintaining a robust security posture and ensures adherence to regulatory requirements.