Pentest: what it is, how it is done, benefits and what to do next

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Penetration testing is an information security technique that aims to assess vulnerabilities in a system, as well as ukraine mobile database level of protection against attacks. It can be done by simulating a real attack, to identify weaknesses and correct them. Continue reading to learn about the benefits for your company and what to do after the test.



What is a Pentest and how does it work?
A penetration test, also known as a pen test or ethical hacking, is a security auditing technique used to identify weaknesses in computer systems, networks, and applications.

It involves testing the security of an organization's IT infrastructure by simulating an attack from an external source. The goal of a penetration test is to identify any vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious hackers and other cybercriminals.

Once this is done, companies can take appropriate steps to protect their systems.



What are the benefits of Pentest for your company?
Conducting a penetration test on your company can bring numerous benefits. First, an expert external view can detect vulnerabilities that may go unnoticed by internal professionals. This helps reduce the risk of real attacks and potential financial damage to the company.

Furthermore, performing intrusion tests can also be a competitive advantage for your business, as it shows that the company is committed to the security of confidential data and information. This creates credibility with the company's customers and partners .



How is the test done?
In short, vulnerability testing is divided into 3 phases: planning, execution and post-execution. See below how each of them works:



Planning
In this first phase, the initial collection of information that will be used to model the tests takes place , collecting details of the infrastructure, as well as the resources and equipment necessary to carry out the pentest.

In addition, information is gathered for subsequent assessments, definition of threats of interest, security controls, management plans, requirements, goals, objectives, success factors, assumptions, available resources, among others.

The types of tests that will be performed are also defined , such as internal and external tests and whether the tests will follow the “black box” methodology (with no knowledge of the system to be evaluated) or the white box methodology (with partial or unrestricted knowledge of any information relevant to the execution of the test).



Execution
In this phase, risks and vulnerabilities are identified. It is subdivided into the following sub-stages: obtaining information, scanning and mapping, identifying vulnerabilities, and attacks. See:



Obtaining Information
Detecting and mapping attack paths is a must when it comes to analyzing networks. Passive collection (such as the use of sniffers) and active collection (such as techniques such as WHOIS, DNS, Social Engineering, Dumpster Diving) are especially important in this process.



Scanning and Mapping
The network scanning and mapping process begins after the data collection stage. The main objectives include: identifying host activity, mapping networks and ports, as well as services in use, and detecting operating systems and routes.