> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://helm.docs.medcrypt.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://helm.docs.medcrypt.com/~/changes/KjixZskptrAaNWiTYnvj/terminology/what-is-cpe.md).

# What is CPE?

Vulnerabilities can be identified through the use of three fields: CPE, PURL, and SWID. Helm supports CPE and PURL. CPE stands for Common Platform Enumeration.

#### What is CPE?

NIST defines CPE as a structured naming scheme for IT systems, software, and packages. It is based on the generic syntax for Uniform Resource Identifiers (URI) and includes a formal name format, a method for checking names against a system, and a description format for binding text and tests to a name. The CPE specification was designed for operating systems, applications, and hardware devices. It is maintained by the NVD.

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