Penetration testing (Pentest) is a security assessment that simulates a cyberattack on a system, network, or web application to identify vulnerabilities and evaluate the security maturity of an organization. Various types of pentests exist, each designed for different scenarios and objectives.
Types of Pentests
- External Pentest: Focuses on attacking an organization’s external systems and infrastructure, such as public-facing websites, servers, and external networks.
- Internal Pentest: Simulates an attack from within the organization’s network, targeting internal resources such as servers, intranets, and VLANs.
- Web Application Pentest: Assesses the security of an organization’s web applications, including online forms, login pages, and other interactive elements.
- Wireless Pentest: Targets an organization’s wireless networks, including Wi-Fi access points and Bluetooth-enabled devices.
- Network Pentest: Evaluates the security of an organization’s network infrastructure, including routers, switches, and firewalls.
Pentesting Methodologies
Pentests can be conducted using different approaches based on the level of information provided to the tester.
Black Box Testing
A Black Box Pentest, or zero-knowledge assessment, is a test where the pentester has no prior knowledge of the target system. This simulates a real-world cyberattack in which the attacker has no insider information about the environment.
During the test, the pentester uses various tools and techniques such as network scanning, port scanning, and vulnerability scanning to gather information about the target system. The goal is to identify vulnerabilities and exploit them in a way that mimics real attacker behavior.
This methodology is recommended for organizations with basic cybersecurity protections in place or those that have undergone previous security testing.
Gray Box Testing
A Gray Box Pentest, or partial-knowledge assessment, is a test where the pentester has limited knowledge of the target system. This simulates an attack in which the attacker has some privileged information, such as login credentials or network architecture details.
During the test, the pentester uses both provided information and active reconnaissance to gather additional insights about the target system.
White Box Testing
A White Box Pentest, or full-knowledge assessment, is a test where the pentester has complete access to the target system’s internal architecture, configurations, and potential vulnerabilities.
This type of testing is more detailed and time-consuming but provides a comprehensive evaluation of the organization’s security posture.
Red Team Assessment
A Red Team Assessment is an advanced penetration test that simulates a coordinated, persistent cyberattack on an organization’s systems and networks. The goal is to test the organization’s security defenses and incident response capabilities in a realistic and comprehensive manner.
During a Red Team engagement, experienced security professionals use Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) similar to those of real attackers. The assessment may include social engineering attacks, network intrusions, and physical security testing.
Red Team assessments are typically conducted over an extended period to provide a realistic view of an organization’s overall security resilience.
The Pentest and Cybersecurity Market
A custom penetration test can range from $4,000 to $150,000, depending on the scope and complexity. Basic web or network pentests generally start at $4,000, while more comprehensive external or internal pentests can cost between $15,000 and $50,000. Advanced Red Team assessments can exceed $150,000.
Organizations should be cautious of services offered below market value, as they may be conducted by unqualified professionals or rely on automated tools that fail to provide a high-quality security assessment, leading to a false sense of security.
How HackerSec Can Help
HackerSec is a leading cybersecurity provider, offering tailored and comprehensive penetration testing services.
Learn more about how we can help secure your business: https://hackersec.com/en/services/
By conducting regular penetration tests and maintaining an updated security strategy, organizations can strengthen their defenses and mitigate cyber threats in an increasingly complex digital environment.