Data breaches can hurt a business’s reputation and cost it millions. Penetration testing services help businesses protect their reputation by reducing the risk of a data breach.
Pen tests simulate cyberattacks on an app, network, or physical facility to identify vulnerabilities and improve security posture. The best penetration testing services use advanced threat intel to understand tactics, techniques, and procedures that cybercriminals will employ.
Cost
Whether you’re an organisation that performs penetration tests regularly or one that is just starting to hire a penetration testing consultancy, the cost of these services will vary. It’s important to consider all of the variables when deciding on the best solution for your organisation. For example, the number of systems tested will impact the price. Also, different types of systems require a variety of tools and skills to test effectively.
It’s critical to check the credibility of a penetration testing company before hiring them. A primary method is to ask for references. However, it’s important to note that vendors often hand-pick happy customers to highlight in their marketing materials.
Reputation
A penetration testing service’s reputation is important because it represents the company’s integrity and professionalism. Choosing a provider with a good reputation ensures that the company follows industry best practices. It also provides peace of mind to security teams knowing that they have a partner with a proven track record.
A reputable provider will assign a team of human-led, certified penetration testers to each client engagement. These pen testers will use specialised operating systems to test vulnerabilities on the target system. They also use tools to scan for open ports. Credential-cracking tools are also used to uncover weak passwords.
Experience
A penetration testing service provider should be able to provide a comprehensive report of its findings. This can help security teams prioritise vulnerabilities for remediation and improve their overall security posture. It can also help them meet compliance requirements. A good penetration test will include a full vulnerability assessment, which is essential for ensuring an organisation’s data is secure.
Vulnerability assessments are recurring, automated scans that look for common vulnerabilities in a system and flag them for review. Penetration tests take this a step further by exploiting these vulnerabilities in simulated attacks that mimic the behaviours of real hackers.
Certifications
The right certifications can help you build the skills and experience you need for a successful career as a penetration tester. While there are many different certifications available, some are more prestigious and in high demand than others. It’s a good idea to research each certification to find out if it meets your requirements. You should also consider the reputation of the credentialing body to avoid scams and shady business dealings.
A penetration test is a process that simulates how hackers would try to break into a computer system, network, or web application. This can identify security risks and help you prevent a data breach. There are several types of penetration tests, including external and internal testing.
Eliana Sawvel is a sustainability advocate and researcher who writes about eco-friendly practices, material reuse, and the impact of recycling on climate change. She is passionate about educating businesses and individuals on responsible waste management.