The correct option is It defines a minimum security standard that all system modifications are measured against.

This is correct because a security baseline establishes a defined set of minimum configuration settings and controls that all systems must meet. A baseline provides a consistent reference for measuring changes and detecting configuration drift. It helps enforce uniform security posture across systems and simplifies auditing and compliance efforts.

VPC Service Controls is incorrect because it names a cloud provider feature that focuses on isolating services and data at a network perimeter rather than defining an organization wide configuration baseline. It is a specific control and not the general standard that a baseline provides.

It enforces immediate application of all patches is incorrect because baselines specify desired configuration states and may include patch level requirements but they do not themselves perform or force immediate patch deployment. Patch management is a separate operational process that uses baselines as criteria.

It increases network performance by automatically shifting bandwidth is incorrect because baselines are concerned with security configuration and compliance. They do not dynamically manage network bandwidth or improve performance by shifting resources.

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