Penetration testing is a controlled, authorised simulation of a cyber attack against your systems, networks or applications. Unlike vulnerability scanning which identifies known weaknesses, penetration testing attempts to actively exploit vulnerabilities to determine their real-world impact. This provides organisations with a realistic assessment of their security posture and the potential consequences of a successful attack.
Why Penetration Testing Matters
Automated security tools are essential but cannot replicate the creativity and adaptability of a skilled attacker. Penetration testing fills this gap by simulating real-world attack scenarios, validating the effectiveness of security controls, identifying vulnerabilities that automated tools miss, demonstrating the business impact of successful exploitation and meeting compliance requirements from frameworks like ISO 27001, PCI DSS and SOC 2.
Our penetration testing service provides comprehensive assessments conducted by experienced security professionals.
Types of Penetration Testing
By Knowledge Level
- Black-box testing: The tester has no prior knowledge of the target environment, simulating an external attacker
- White-box testing: The tester has full knowledge including source code, architecture diagrams and credentials
- Grey-box testing: The tester has partial knowledge, simulating an insider or a compromised external user
By Target
- Network penetration testing: External and internal network infrastructure assessment
- Web application testing: Testing web applications against OWASP Top 10 and beyond
- Mobile application testing: iOS and Android application security assessment
- Social engineering: Testing human susceptibility through phishing, vishing and physical access attempts
- Wireless testing: Assessing WiFi security configurations and protocols
- Cloud penetration testing: Testing cloud infrastructure and configurations
Testing Methodologies
Professional penetration tests follow established methodologies including OWASP Testing Guide (web applications), PTES (Penetration Testing Execution Standard), OSSTMM (Open Source Security Testing Methodology Manual) and NIST SP 800-115 (Technical Guide to Information Security Testing). These provide structured approaches ensuring comprehensive coverage and consistent quality.
The Testing Process
- Scoping and planning: Define objectives, targets, rules of engagement and timelines
- Reconnaissance: Gather information about the target through passive and active techniques
- Vulnerability identification: Discover potential weaknesses through scanning and manual analysis
- Exploitation: Attempt to exploit identified vulnerabilities to determine real-world impact
- Post-exploitation: Assess the extent of access gained and potential for lateral movement
- Reporting: Document findings with severity ratings, evidence and remediation recommendations
- Remediation support: Assist with fixing identified vulnerabilities
- Re-testing: Verify that remediation efforts have been effective
Scoping Considerations
Effective scoping ensures the test delivers maximum value. Define which systems are in scope, testing windows, escalation procedures, data handling requirements and any systems that must not be tested. Ensure all testing is properly authorised with written permission from system owners.
Managing Results
Penetration test findings should be tracked through to remediation using a structured process. Prioritise findings based on risk severity and business impact. Set remediation SLAs based on severity levels. Track progress and conduct re-testing to verify fixes. Our Pentest Manager module provides comprehensive tracking and management of penetration test findings.
Combining with Vulnerability Scanning
Penetration testing and vulnerability scanning are complementary activities. Scanning provides continuous, automated coverage across your infrastructure, while penetration testing provides periodic, deep assessment by skilled professionals. Together they deliver comprehensive security assurance.
Compliance and Regulatory Requirements
Many frameworks require regular penetration testing. PCI DSS mandates annual external and internal testing and after significant changes. ISO 27001 requires regular security testing as part of the ISMS. NIS2 requires regular technical security testing. SOC 2 includes penetration testing in its trust service criteria. Understanding these requirements helps determine the appropriate testing frequency and scope.
Choosing a Testing Provider
Select a provider with relevant certifications (CREST, OSCP, CHECK), industry experience, clear methodology, comprehensive reporting, professional indemnity insurance and strong references. Contact our team to discuss your penetration testing requirements.
Conclusion
Penetration testing provides invaluable insight into your real-world security posture. By regularly testing your defences through simulated attacks, you identify and address weaknesses before real attackers exploit them. Combined with continuous vulnerability scanning and a strong security programme, penetration testing is a cornerstone of mature cyber security.