Penetration testing, also known as “pen testing” or “ethical hacking”, is a simulated cyberattack designed to identify and exploit system vulnerabilities before malicious actors can. This proactive security measure helps organizations understand their security posture and strengthen defenses by uncovering weaknesses in systems, applications, and network infrastructure. A typical pen test follows a structured methodology, beginning with planning and scoping to define objectives and targeted systems. Reconnaissance then gathers information about the target, followed by automated vulnerability scanning and in-depth analysis to determine exploitability. The tester attempts exploitation to gain unauthorized access, and may perform post-exploitation activities to demonstrate potential impact. Finally, a comprehensive report documents all findings, including vulnerabilities, impact, and remediation recommendations. Penetration tests can be categorized by the tester’s knowledge (black, gray, or white box) or the target (network, web application, mobile application, wireless, or social engineering). When choosing a provider, consider their experience, methodology, reporting quality, and communication skills. Penetration testing is crucial for any robust security strategy, proactively identifying and addressing vulnerabilities to significantly reduce cyberattack risks.
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