Which phase includes assessing the system’s configuration for purchased systems?

The correct choice pertains to the phase that focuses on evaluating the system’s configuration for purchased systems. This phase typically involves an in-depth examination of the software and hardware setups to ensure they align with the organization's requirements and security policies. During this stage, auditors and system assessors gather evidence about how the purchased system has been configured and identify any potential risks or compliance issues that may arise from default settings or inadequate customization.

This phase is crucial as it allows for verifying that best practices are followed in the system’s deployment and that the configuration supports operational and security objectives. It represents a significant step in the overall audit process, as it can impact the effectiveness and reliability of the system in meeting business needs.

In contrast, the other phases focus on different aspects of system assessment and do not specifically address the configuration evaluation of purchased systems. Therefore, understanding the distinct roles of each phase helps in grasping the auditing process and ensuring comprehensive assessments are conducted.