• Validate security controls : Penetration testing can validate the effectiveness of existing firewalls , antivirus , encryption , and authentication implementation . This can help your organization identify any gaps or weaknesses in security architecture and implement the necessary improvements .
• Improve security awareness : Penetration testing can increase the security awareness of the organization ’ s staff , management , and stakeholders . By demonstrating the potential impact of a cyberattack , penetration testing can foster a security culture and encourage the adoption of best practices .
WHAT IS AN INTERNAL PEN TEST ?
An internal pen test is performed from within the organization ’ s network . An internal pen test can help the organization identify weaknesses such as network segmentation , access control , encryption , authentication , and monitoring . An internal pen test can also help the organization detect and respond to lateral movement , privilege escalation , and other malicious activities that an insider might perform .
WHAT IS AN EXTERNAL PEN TEST ?
An external pen test is performed from outside the organization ’ s network . The pen tester has no prior access or knowledge of the network and relies on publicly available information such as domain names , IP addresses , and web pages . An external pen test aims to simulate an external threat , such as a hacker or a cybercriminal . An external pen test can help the organization identify vulnerabilities in its external-facing systems and services , such as web applications , email servers , firewalls , routers , and VPNs .
WHICH ONE DO YOU NEED ?
Both types of pen tests are valuable and complementary , as they can provide different insights and recommendations for improving your security . However , if you must choose one , you should consider the following aspects :
• The nature and frequency of the threats you face .
If you are more concerned about external threats , such as hackers or cybercriminals , you might want to prioritize an external pen test . If you are more concerned about internal threats , such as insiders or compromised accounts , you might want to prioritize an internal pen test .
• The maturity and complexity of your security program . You might want to challenge it with an internal pen test if you think you have strong policies , procedures , and controls and want to confirm this is so . If you have a less mature or complex security program , with gaps or weaknesses in your security controls , you might want to start with an external pen test .
• The scope and objectives of the pen test . If you want to test a specific system or service , such as a web application or an email server , you might want to opt for an external pen test . If you want to test your entire network or a large segment of it , you might want to opt for an internal pen test .
• What do you need to stay compliant or get insurance coverage ? Penetration testing can also help the organization comply with regulatory standards .
CONCLUSION
Penetration testing is a valuable tool for assessing and improving the security of a system or network . By simulating a real-world cyberattack , penetration testing can help the organization identify and prioritize vulnerabilities , validate and enhance security controls , and improve security awareness .
Don ’ t wait for a cyber incident to strike . Be proactive in securing your business today . Schedule a consultation with our experts at Direct iT and give us permission to hack your network .
Are you curious to explore more ? Connect with us at 781-996-4918 or fill out a form at DirectITCorp . com / PenTest . We ’ re enthusiastic about collaborating with you on your IT journey !
Safeguard your future , starting now .
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