A security analyst is attempting to create efficiencies by automating certain tasks defined in the security playbook. Which automation tool would help the analyst accomplish this?

Using a SOAR (Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response) tool is highly effective for automating tasks outlined in a security playbook. SOAR platforms integrate various security tools and processes, enabling security analysts to automate repetitive tasks like incident response, threat intelligence gathering, and reporting. By streamlining these procedures, organizations can respond more quickly and efficiently to security incidents while reducing the manual workload on cybersecurity staff.

In the context of security, SOAR enhances operational efficiency by coordinating actions across multiple security systems, thereby improving the overall security posture of an organization. This makes it easier for security teams to focus on more complex issues that require human expertise rather than being bogged down by routine tasks.

The other options, while relevant in different technological contexts, do not specifically address the needs of automating security processes as effectively as SOAR. Bootstrapping generally refers to the process of initializing a software environment or system rather than automating security tasks. Autoscaling is related to dynamically adjusting resources in cloud environments to meet demand, which doesn't involve security automation. Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) pertains to virtualization technology for desktop environments, and it does not focus on security operations.