Penetration Testing is a type of security assessment that involves simulating a cyberattack on a system, network, or web application to identify vulnerabilities and evaluate the security of a system, as well as measure the organization's security maturity. There are several different types of penetration tests for this purpose.
External Penetration Test: This type of test focuses on attacking the organization's external systems and infrastructure, such as its website, publicly accessible servers, and external networks.
Internal Penetration Test: This type of test simulates an attack from within the organization's network, targeting servers, intranets, and VLANs.
Web Application Penetration Test: This type of test focuses on attacking an organization's web applications, such as online forms, login pages, and other interactive elements.
Wireless Penetration Test: This type of test focuses on attacking an organization's wireless networks, such as Wi-Fi access points and Bluetooth devices.
Network Penetration Test: This type of test focuses on attacking the organization's network infrastructure, including routers, switches, and firewalls.
Additionally, there are different types of tests to be conducted within a Penetration Test:
Black Box
A black box penetration test, also known as a black box assessment, is a type of test where the penetration tester has no prior knowledge of the target system. This means that the tester receives no information about the internal architecture, configuration, or vulnerabilities of the system. The goal of this test is to simulate a real-world cyberattack in which the attacker has no privileged information about the target.
During the penetration test, the tester will use various tools and techniques to gather information about the target system, such as network scanning, port scanning, and vulnerability scanning. The tester will use this information to identify potential vulnerabilities and exploits and attempt to compromise the system in a way that mimics the actions of a real attacker.
We recommend the Black Box methodology only for companies that already have basic cybersecurity measures in place or have previously conducted other tests.
Gray Box
A gray box penetration test, also known as a gray box assessment, is a type of test where the penetration tester has limited knowledge of the target system. This means that the tester receives some information about the system's architecture, configuration, or vulnerabilities, but not all. The goal of a gray box test is to simulate a cyberattack in which the attacker has some privileged information about the target.
During the gray box test, the tester will use the information provided to them, along with various tools and techniques, to gather additional information about the target system.
White Box
A white box penetration test, also known as a white box assessment, is a type of penetration test where the tester has complete knowledge of the target system. This means that the tester receives comprehensive information about the internal architecture, configuration, and vulnerabilities of the system. The goal of this penetration test is to thoroughly assess the security of the target system and identify and remediate any vulnerabilities or weaknesses.
White box tests are typically more time-consuming and detailed than other types of penetration tests but can provide a more comprehensive view of the target system's security posture.
Red Team Assessment
Known as a Red Team assessment, this is a “penetration test” that simulates a coordinated and persistent cyberattack against an organization's systems and networks. The objective is to realistically and comprehensively test an organization's security defenses and incident response capabilities.
During a Red Team assessment, a team of experienced security professionals will use a variety of tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) to simulate a real-world attack on the target organization. This may include activities such as social engineering, network intrusion, and physical penetration testing. The Red Team will leverage their expertise and knowledge of the latest threats and vulnerabilities to realistically and challengingly test the organization’s defenses and response capabilities.
The tests are typically used to evaluate an organization’s overall security posture and to identify and remediate any gaps or weaknesses in its defenses. They are generally conducted over an extended period to provide a more realistic and comprehensive view of the organization’s security posture.
The Penetration Testing and Cybersecurity Market
A customized penetration testing service can start at 35 thousand reais and exceed 200 thousand reais. Be wary of offers below market value, as they may be conducted by unqualified professionals or automated tools that do not adequately assess the security of the environment, creating a false sense of security.
HackerSec is a leader in cybersecurity in Brazil and can assist your company with a comprehensive customized penetration test. Learn about our services for businesses at: https://hackersec.com/empresas/