Network Pentesting
Network penetration testing in simple terms is a simulation of a process a hacker would use to launch an attack on a business network, attached devices, network applications, or a business website. The purpose of the simulation is to identify security issues before hackers can locate them and perform an exploit.
Pen tests identify and confirm actual security issues and report on the manner in which the security issues can be located and exploited by hackers. When performed consistently, a pen test process will inform your business where the weaknesses exist in your security model. This ensures your business can achieve a balance between maintaining the best network security possible and ensuring ongoing business functions in terms of possible security exploits. The results of a pen test can also assist your business with improved planning when it comes to business continuity and disaster recovery.
How does network penetration testing work?
There are several steps that are involved with penetration testing with the planning phase being the most critical. During the planning phase, network professionals review user documentation, network specifications, various cases of network usage, and other types of relevant documentation. The information is then used to design a series of test cases for the penetration test.
- Network Interfaces
- Errors and User alerts
- Disaster Scenario Identification
Why should you hire services of network security professional?
A network security professional is specifically trained with the necessary expertise to effectively conduct penetration testing and other network assessments. As we mentioned earlier in this article, pen tests that are performed improperly could be detrimental to an organisation and its daily business operations. Some of the skills applied by a network security professional include but are not limited to the following:
- Data Breach Prevention
- Application Security
- Security Control Testing
- GAP Analysis Maintenance
- Compliance
Processes involved in network penetration testing!
There are a variety of methodologies used when it comes to effective penetration testing. Some or all of these methodologies may be used depending upon the network system type.
- Black Box Testing
- White Box Testing
- Grey Box Testing
Penetration test delivarables
Pen test deliverables include a series of reports that reveal how security issues were identified and confirmed during the test to determine how the issues should be fixed. Once a penetration test has been completed, the report reveals a list of all network vulnerabilities that were discovered during the test. In most cases, the report will also provide recommendations on how to fix the issues.
