What is Penetration Testing

Penetration testing or pen testing for short, is a simulated cyberattack and security assessment of an organisations network infrastructure, computer systems, web applications and operating systems.

It is designed to provide an in-depth assessment of your cyber security vulnerabilities so you can identify and improve security weaknesses.

There are a number of types of penetration testing services and solutions covering a wide attack surface as follows:

Types of Pen Testing

White box testing

White box testing, also referred to as clear box testing, requires the tester to possess complete understanding of the target system, encompassing its architecture, source code, and internal mechanisms. This comprehensive approach enables a more in-depth evaluation of the system’s security status.

Black box testing

During black box testing, a cyber security tester operates without prior knowledge of a target system or network. This mirrors an attacker with restricted information about an organisations system, requiring them to conduct reconnaissance and vulnerability assessments during the test.

Social Engineering Attacks

Social engineering penetration testing assesses an organization’s susceptibility to social engineering attacks, such as phishing emails, phone calls, or physical security breaches. Testers attempt to manipulate employees into disclosing sensitive information or performing actions that could compromise security.

Internal Network Testing

Internal network testing or infrastructure penetration testing, focuses on evaluating the security from within an organization’s network and systems. This involves simulating attacks from within the network to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be exploited by cybercriminals. Testers use a combination of automated tools and manual techniques to assess the network’s security posture, including privilege escalation and lateral movement.

Firewall Penetration Testing

Firewall penetration testing, also known as firewall security testing, evaluates the effectiveness of a firewall and other network security measures by identifying potential vulnerabilities and weaknesses. Additionally, it examines the security of internal networks, focusing on identifying misconfigurations that may pose security risks.

Web Application Security Testing

Web application security testing focuses on finding and fixing security vulnerabilities of a web application. The process includes an active analysis of the app for any known vulnerabilities, weaknesses, technical flaws and testing authentication. The aim is to make sure web applications are safe from common risks like SQL injection, cross-site scripting, and unauthorized access.

SUMMARY

Penetration testing, also known as pen testing, is a method cybersecurity experts use to evaluate an organisation’s information security measures. It involves various methodologies to identify and exploit security flaws and vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks, web applications, and operating systems.

During penetration testing, cybersecurity experts (penetration testers) attempt to recreate cyber threats by seeking weaknesses in security controls and functionality. The goal is to uncover potential security issues that malicious attackers could exploit to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data or compromise the integrity of the system.

By imitating the tactics of cybercriminals, penetration testers provide valuable insights into an organisation’s security posture and help identify areas for improvement. This proactive approach helps organisations strengthen their security and reduce risks before real attackers can exploit them.

Trusted providers of penetration testing services play a crucial role in assisting organisations to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities, ensuring compliance with security standards and best practices. Through rigorous testing and analysis, these providers help organisations safeguard sensitive data and maintain the integrity of their systems against emerging cyber threats.

How Stream can Help

Stream Networks provides thorough penetration testing services to businesses. With expertise in managed Connectivity, Cloud, Unified Communications, Cyber Security, and ICT Infrastructure, we help organisations identify and mitigate security vulnerabilities across their digital infrastructure.

Our dedicated testing team, made up of skilled security professionals, conducts simulated attacks to assess network connectivity, Windows systems, and open ports.

Through external tests, vulnerability scans, and in-house methodologies, Stream Networks assists businesses in maintaining access to data security and safeguarding against real-world cyber threats.

Working closely with your security team, we deliver detailed reports highlighting vulnerabilities and positives, enabling you to make informed decisions about  cybersecurity strategies. Focusing on exceptional customer service and utilising state-of-the-art communications networks, we offer effective penetration testing solutions tailored to each business’s needs. This ensures a resilient security posture and mitigates potential risks through ethical hacking techniques.

To find out further information call our team on 01635 884170 or complete the contact form below.