What is the purpose of an IT audit?

The purpose of an IT audit is primarily to evaluate IT systems against regulations and best practices. This involves a systematic review of an organization's IT infrastructure, policies, and processes to ensure they comply with legal and regulatory requirements, as well as industry standards. An effective IT audit assesses the effectiveness of IT controls, the security of data, and the overall governance of IT functions, ensuring that they align with the organization's objectives and risk management strategies.

Through this evaluation, organizations can identify potential vulnerabilities, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement, ultimately enhancing their IT environment's reliability and security. Additionally, it helps to ensure that the organization's IT investments are providing value and that data management practices are sound, thereby supporting strategic decision-making and operational effectiveness.