What is the primary goal of the gaining access phase in an attack?

The primary goal of the gaining access phase in an attack is focused on achieving initial entry into the target system or network. This phase is crucial as it allows the attacker to establish a foothold, which can then be used to further exploit the system. While the option selected emphasizes collecting information from other phases, gaining access primarily aims to control the system that has been targeted.

In this context, attacking systems involves obtaining credentials, exploiting vulnerabilities, or using social engineering tactics to gain unauthorized access. Once access is achieved, the attacker can then begin to move laterally within the network, escalate privileges, and collect sensitive information, which may include data gathered during prior reconnaissance activities.

The options indicating tool installation, hiding presence, or DNS manipulation pertain to later stages of an attack or tactics that could be performed after access is gained, rather than describing the foundation of the gaining access phase itself. Thus, focusing on establishing access is a key differentiator for understanding the intent behind this phase of an attack.