Network Penetration Testing
A Network Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Test (VAPT) is a comprehensive security evaluation that goes beyond basic port scanning and vulnerability enumeration. This technical assessment identifies security risks and their potential business impact on your network, whether wireless, internal, or external. Network security testing is an essential process that uncovers security flaws, vulnerabilities, and threats that could compromise your organization’s networks, web servers, and applications. By simulating real-world attacks to attempt unauthorized access, VAPT provides a thorough understanding of your network’s current security posture.
Methodology
Black Box
Black Box testing, also known as behavioral or external testing, is a software testing technique that does not require any knowledge of the internal code structure, implementation details, or internal pathways of an application. Instead, it focuses solely on the application’s inputs and outputs, ensuring they align with the specified requirements and functionality. This approach tests the system from an end-user perspective, verifying that the software behaves as expected based on its design and documentation.
Gray Box
Gray Box testing is a software testing approach that blends elements of both Black Box and White Box testing. This method involves testing an application with a partial understanding of its internal code structure. The goal is to identify context-specific faults that may arise from suboptimal code design while still considering the external behavior of the application. Gray Box testing provides a balanced perspective, enabling testers to uncover issues that might not be visible through either Black Box or White Box testing alone.
White Box
White Box testing is a software testing technique that involves examining the underlying structure, code, and architecture of an application. This method validates the input-output flow and aims to enhance the application’s design, security, and functionality. Often referred to as Internal Testing, Clear Box Testing, Open Box Testing, or Glass Box Testing, this approach allows testers to directly access and analyze the code, providing a deeper understanding of the application’s internal workings.
Enhance Your Network Security Like Never Before
External Penetration Testing
Identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in your internet-facing assets to fortify them against external threats.
Network Penetration Testing
Secure your network devices through a thorough and comprehensive penetration test.
Internal Penetration Testing
Gain in-depth insights into potential internal threats within your network infrastructure.
Network Compliance Review
Evaluate your network infrastructure to ensure it adheres to the latest security compliance standards, including SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS.
Benefits
Cost Saving
Adherence to Compliance
Reduced Outage
Risk Management
Methodology
Define Scope
Before conducting an application assessment, it is essential to clearly define the scope in collaboration with the client. This stage encourages open dialogue between the company and the client to establish a solid foundation for the assessment.
Information Gathering
At this stage, we employ a range of Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) tools and techniques to gather comprehensive data on the target.
This information is critical for understanding the dynamics of the relationship, allowing us to accurately assess risks as the engagement progresses.
Identification and Inspection
During this phase, we utilise a combination of automated tools and various data collection methods to gather advanced intelligence. Our experts meticulously examine potential attack vectors, laying the groundwork for the subsequent steps.
Attack and Penetration
In this phase, we conduct both manual and automated security scans to identify all potential attack paths and vulnerabilities. We execute targeted exploits to evaluate the application’s security posture, employing a range of techniques, open-source scripts, and proprietary tools to ensure thorough penetration testing. Each step is carefully managed to safeguard your application and its data.
Reporting
This final stage involves consolidating all gathered data, performing a comprehensive analysis, and delivering a detailed report to the client. The report provides an in-depth assessment of the risks identified, along with a thorough evaluation of the application’s strengths and weaknesses.
Any questions?
Check out the FAQs
Still have unanswered questions and need to get in touch?
What is the difference between internal and external network penetration testing?
Internal penetration testing focuses on identifying vulnerabilities within the network that could be exploited by an insider or after an initial breach. External penetration testing, on the other hand, assesses the network from an outsider’s perspective, identifying vulnerabilities that could be exploited from outside the network perimeter.
Can network penetration testing cause disruptions?
While penetration testing is designed to be as non-intrusive as possible, there is a potential for disruptions, especially if vulnerabilities are exploited. It’s important to plan the test during low-traffic periods and ensure that any critical systems are closely monitored during the test.
Are network penetration testing and vulnerability assessment similar?
No, they are different. A penetration test simulates a real-world attack to identify potential weaknesses that could be exploited by a hacker. In contrast, a vulnerability assessment is a subset of penetration testing that scans the network and systems for known vulnerabilities. Penetration testing is more comprehensive, as it involves simulating an actual attack, while vulnerability assessments focus on identifying existing flaws.
How frequently should a network penetration test be carried out?
A network security test should be conducted at least once a year or whenever significant changes occur, such as:
- Addition or significant modification of infrastructure or applications.
- Changes in end-user access policies (permissions or roles).
How long does a network penetration test usually take?
The duration of a network penetration test can vary depending on the complexity and size of the network. Typically, a test can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. The exact timeline is determined during the scoping phase.
How should we prepare for a network penetration test?
Preparation for a network penetration test involves:
- Clearly defining the scope of the test.
- Ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and aware of the test schedule.
- Backing up critical data and systems to prevent data loss.
- Providing access to necessary systems and documentation to the testing team.
What is important for network security besides VAPT?
In addition to regular VAPT, it’s crucial to perform configuration audits and device-level security analyses based on the Original Equipment Manufacturer’s (OEM) recommended security policies and procedures.
What are the key outcomes of a network penetration test?
The key outcomes include a detailed report highlighting discovered vulnerabilities, potential attack paths, exploited weaknesses, and recommended remediation actions to enhance the network’s security posture.
What are the industry standards for Network VAPT?
Network Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) is typically conducted in line with industry standards such as NIST SP800-115, PTES, and CIS Benchmarks.
How do we choose the right provider for network penetration testing?
When selecting a provider, consider their experience, certifications, methodology, and the comprehensiveness of their reporting. It’s also important to ensure they follow recognized industry standards and can customize the test to meet your specific needs.