The approach to conducting an IT Security GAP Analysis typically involves the following steps:

• Scope Definition: Clearly define the scope of the analysis, including the systems, processes, and assets that will be included in the assessment. Identify the specific security standards, frameworks, or regulations that will serve as the benchmark for the analysis, such as ISO 27001, NIST Cybersecurity Framework, or industry-specific regulations.
• Data Collection: Gather information about the organization's current security controls, policies, procedures, and technical configurations. This may involve reviewing documentation, conducting interviews with key personnel, and performing technical assessments such as vulnerability scanning or penetration testing.
• Gap Identification: Compare the current state of security controls and practices against the desired state defined by the selected benchmark or standard. Identify any gaps or areas where the organization's security controls fall short of the desired requirements. This may involve mapping controls and practices to specific requirements and assessing the effectiveness of implemented controls.
• Risk Assessment: Evaluate the impact and likelihood of the identified gaps and deficiencies. Assess the potential risks and vulnerabilities associated with each gap and prioritize them based on their potential impact on the organization's assets, operations, and compliance obligations.
• Remediation Planning: Develop a plan to address the identified gaps and deficiencies. Prioritize the remediation activities based on the risk assessment and available resources. Define specific actions, timelines, responsible parties, and expected outcomes for each remediation task.
• Implementation and Monitoring: Execute the remediation plan, implementing the necessary security controls, policies, and procedures to address the identified gaps. Continuously monitor and track the progress of the remediation efforts, ensuring that the necessary changes are implemented effectively and in a timely manner.

IT Security GAP Analysis often goes hand-in-hand with IT Security Audits. An audit assesses the effectiveness and compliance of an organization's IT security controls with applicable standards, regulations, and internal policies. It involves a comprehensive examination of security controls, risk management practices, incident response capabilities, and overall security governance.
During an IT Security Audit, auditors typically review documentation, interview personnel, perform technical assessments, and evaluate the organization's security program against the defined criteria. The audit findings are documented in an audit report, which includes recommendations for improvement and areas of non-compliance.
The IT Security GAP Analysis can be a valuable input for the IT Security Audit, as it helps identify gaps and deficiencies that need to be addressed. The audit process validates and verifies the effectiveness of implemented controls and provides an independent assessment of the organization's security posture.
Together, IT Security GAP Analysis and IT Security Audit provide organizations with valuable insights into their security posture, highlight areas for improvement, and support the development of a robust and effective IT security program. They help organizations identify and mitigate risks, enhance compliance, and strengthen their overall security posture.