Blast Radius

Blast radius is the scope of potential impact if a compromise succeeds—systems, users, data, or services affected downstream of an entry point or path step.

Blast Radius

Definition

Blast radius is the scope of potential impact if a compromise succeeds at a given point—how many systems, users, data sets, or services could be affected downstream.

In attack path analysis, blast radius helps translate structural reachability into business-meaningful prioritization.

Usage in attack path decisions

Question Blast radius role
Why prioritize this hop? Large downstream impact
Executive briefing Impact in business terms
Control investment Reduce radius at choke points

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