Penetration Testing

Understanding physical penetration testing and how to take advantage of it requires:

• Knowing what physical pen tests are and the overall approach they take
• Appreciating how an actual physical penetration test works in practice
• Scoping best practices into a physical or hybrid pen testing program
• Comparing physical pen tests against other forms of penetration testing

Penetration testing is one of the most robust security testing tools within any cybersecurity program. When implemented effectively, the four phases of penetration testing will help identify gaps in your IT security and bolster your cyberdefenses. Read on to learn more about the penetration testing phases.

Penetration testing is an advanced cybersecurity method that is especially useful in complex environments, such as those that make heavy use of cloud computing. In these cases, cloud pen testing is often required. But even when it’s not mandated, regular penetration testing is considered a best practice for cyber hygiene.

By following the Penetration Testing Execution Standard (PTES), companies of all sizes are capable of executing an effective pen test that exposes any issues in their cybersecurity. By conducting penetration (pen) testing, you can determine how a hacker would attack your systems by watching an assault unfold in a controlled environment. And the only way to ensure that this kind of test will work is to make sure it meets certain standards.

One of the primary goals of cyberdefense programs is identifying, preventing, and mitigating attacks. The best way to do this is with targeted programs, such as penetration and intrusion testing, where attackers’ offensive tactics become your company’s defensive training.

Some regulatory frameworks explicitly require penetration testing from eligible parties. But even those that don’t require it outright may still have other mandates that would be met or exceeded efficiently by conducting penetration testing. Thus, penetration assessments are critical for your security infrastructure.

For organizations looking to begin penetration testing, two available options include online (automated) and offline (manual) tests. While automating allows for more frequent and faster testing, manual testing has its own unique benefits in the form of customization and trust.

Looking to pen test your website? Follow this five-step plan for a successful exercise:

• Prepare your defenses to ensure simulated attacks provide the deepest insights
• Negotiate with the testing team to establish scope, targets, and starting positions
• Gather information on your website and web assets to facilitate simulated attacks
• Conduct the agreed-upon penetration testing techniques and escalate, as needed
• Report on findings and use results to optimize defenses, training, and compliance

Starting and running a business is expensive and the expenses do not stop even after your company is making a profit. You have to consider materials, costs of labor, facilities, and equipment just to name a few of the many expenses you have to cover. Another crucial purchase you must consider is that of cybersecurity for your company. 

Penetration testing is critical to identifying security threats to your IT infrastructure before they can blossom into full-blown attacks. Conducting an external “black box” pen test will help you pinpoint security vulnerabilities you may not readily identify with an internal pen test. Read on to learn more about black box pen testing best practices from which you could benefit.