Overview

A penetration test, or pen-test, is an attempt to evaluate the security of an IT infrastructure by safely trying to exploit vulnerabilities. Penetration tests are typically performed using manual or automated technologies to systematically compromise servers, endpoints, web applications, wireless networks, network devices, mobile devices and other potential points of exposure

Information about any security vulnerabilities successfully exploited through penetration testing is typically aggregated and presented to IT and network system managers to help those professionals make strategic conclusions and prioritize related remediation efforts. The fundamental purpose of penetration testing is to measure the feasibility of systems or end-user compromise and evaluate any related consequences such incidents may have on the involved resources or operations

Benefits

• Intelligently manage vulnerabilities
• Avoid the cost of network downtime
• Meet regulatory requirements and avoid fines
• Preserve corporate image and customer loyalty

Why Perform Pen-Tests

• Security breaches and service interruptions are costly.
• It is impossible to safeguard all information, all the time.
• Penetration-testing identifies and prioritizes security risks.

How Often You Should Perform Pen-Tests

Penetration testing should be performed on a regular basis to ensure more consistent IT and network security management. A pen-tester will reveal how newly discovered threats or emerging vulnerabilities may potentially be assailed by attackers. In addition to regularly scheduled analysis and assessments required by regulatory mandates, tests should also be run whenever:

• New network infrastructure or applications are added
• Significant upgrades or modifications are applied to infrastructure or applications
• New office locations are established
• Security patches are applied
• End user policies are modified