Security vulnerabilities in systems are one of the most common problems. Penetration Testing enables the identification of weaknesses in the protection of the corporate network and network infrastructure elements. Technically, Penetration Testing is the analysis of threats and vulnerabilities using automated tools to check the attack methods used by hackers. Data security and production continuity are the most critical points for companies. Security measures must be taken to ensure the security of this data and minimize possible damages. As a result of the tests performed, a detailed report is prepared indicating the criticality levels of the security vulnerabilities and recommendations for their elimination. In the light of these reports, you can achieve uninterrupted production without loss of production. Thanks to the tests you will apply regularly, you can make analysis studies that take into account the changes in the system.
What are the Basic Steps of Penetration Testing?
Penetration Testing is one of the most important analysis methods applied to protect company data from virus programs, malicious people and minimize possible damages. Companies that want to ensure production continuity benefit from penetration tests. Penetration testing consists of several basic steps.
- The stage of analyzing publicly available information about the company and data,
- Conducting social engineering research,
- Analyzing internal and external security vulnerabilities,
- Test application,
- The penetration testing process is completed with the creation of reporting documents.
After the penetration test is completed, the company’s business processes, the rate of risks, and the ability of an attacker to exploit them are determined. The test is a detailed demonstration of identified vulnerabilities and deficiencies. A description of the scenarios in which the penetration is performed and a detailed description of the structure of the test objects. Recommendations are made to take measures to address the vulnerabilities and deficiencies that have been uncovered.
When Should Penetration Testing Be Performed?
Penetration testing is known as a simulation of a possible cyber attack against the system by a non-malicious professional. The main goal of these tests is to uncover vulnerabilities that can be exploited before anyone else. Upon completion of the penetration test, an official document is prepared that explains and details all the outputs. This document is based on two main lines. The first is an executive summary in which the tester describes the process and findings at a high level. The other is a technical summary with more in-depth details.
A system or network is constantly undergoing changes. If penetration testing is done too early in this process, potential future vulnerabilities may be missed. Generally, when the system is not in a state of constant change, penetration testing is appropriate just before the system is put into production. Ideally, any system or software should be tested before the production process is started. Thus, companies do not have difficulty in ensuring production continuity.
How Often should penetration testing be performed?
Penetration testing should not be considered as a process to be applied once. Network and computer systems have a dynamic structure. They cannot stay in the same structure for a long time. New software is introduced and changes are made over time. These innovations and changes need to be retested. It is very important to eliminate security vulnerabilities to ensure production continuity. The intervals at which a company should apply for penetration testing depends on some factors. We can list these factors as follows.
Company Size
Large-scale companies with a larger online presence face a higher risk of attack. These companies, which are faster targets for threat actors, need to test their systems frequently. Periodic testing also eliminates the risk of production loss.
Budget
Penetration tests can be expensive. For this reason, companies with smaller budgets may do less penetration testing. A low budget may limit penetration testing to once every two years. Larger budgets allow for more frequent and comprehensive testing.
Regulations
Laws and compliance are also a separate factor for testing processes. Depending on industries, various laws and regulations apply. These laws need to be complied with, requiring organizations to take certain security measures, including penetration testing.
Infrastructure
Some companies operate on a cloud basis. In this case, the cloud provider may not be allowed to test its infrastructure. The cloud provider has the capability to conduct penetration tests internally.
PlusClouds Penetration Testing Services
At PlusClouds, we help businesses strengthen their cybersecurity strategy by offering our customers a comprehensive penetration testing service. Our specialized security team is made up of experienced cybersecurity experts and tests our clients’ systems against attacks using the latest techniques and methods. In our penetration testing process, we work rigorously to identify our clients’ security vulnerabilities, identify potential risks and recommend appropriate corrective measures. Our goal is to provide our customers with the highest level of security and offer solutions to protect their businesses against cyber threats.
If you want to have a penetration test, you can start by filling out the Penetration Test Request Form on our website.