Which Type of Penetration Test Do I Need?

Carrying out penetration testing on your IT system is an important defensive move that every organisation should make to reduce the risk of attack from cyber criminals. However, since each test has its own objective, how do you know which tests are needed?

What is a penetration test?

A penetration test, or pen test, is used to evaluate the security of an organisation’s IT system. Cybersecurity experts like Micromindercs carry out a series of tests to seek out vulnerabilities within the system with the aim of shutting them down before hackers can get in.

Internal and external network testing

With internal and external testing, the network is checked for vulnerabilities. Public IP addresses and APIs are tested along with firewalls, routers, remote servers, and desktops.

Web application testing

This category of testing aims to find vulnerabilities in websites, services, and applications by assessing the security, design, and protocol. This is particularly useful as websites are updated regularly. As well as improving your software development lifecycle process, this method of testing enables organisations to meet compliance requirements.

Mobile application testing

Mobile applications are a lucrative target for cybercriminals, as there are now so many. Apps for android and iOS mobile platforms should be tested for known vulnerabilities and coding flaws.

Social engineering 

This type of testing involves the discovery of employee ignorance of security protocols. Testers use a variety of techniques, such as phishing, to see if staff will hand over sensitive information. Assessments then highlight the training required, raise awareness, and increase adherence to security policies.

Cloud security testing

The use of cloud technology is ever-growing and therefore, it is essential that these environments are also tested. To stay ahead of cyberattacks, any unsecured perimeters, configurations, and access controls must be uncovered.

Wireless device testing

Wireless infrastructures, such as devices and Wifi networks, need to be assessed so that they, too, can be strengthened against encryption, authentication attacks, Bluetooth exploits, and data breaches.

Get a health check

To find out which pen tests you need for your IT system, consider using penetration testing services UK. Specialists can carry out a cyber security health check using manual and automated tests. A vulnerability assessment will provide you with reports, and testers can provide advice on how to take remedial action to shore up weak points in your system.

The takeaway 

To uncover vulnerabilities in IT systems, a variety of pen tests need to be carried out. They are essential if you want to avoid attacks from cybercriminals, and since different technologies are used in the workplace, the best way to make sure you have every access point covered is to engage expert pen testers who can carry out the appropriate scans.