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Penetration testing is designed to find weak spots in a security system. This is a thorough, systematic process, and it's absolutely essential when you need to identify security vulnerabilities. Penetration testing does a comprehensive test of the systems, analyzing the systems for security issues and importantly assigning risk levels. This testing provides extremely valuable information, mapping security issues clearly.
The basics - Finding the weak spots
Penetration testing is designed to systematically check essential security points. These are intensive tests, intended to provide realistic evaluations of a system under competent attack by a professional hacker.
To illustrate the principles of penetration testing, these are some of the basic methods:
- Password strengths
- Firewalls
- Port scanning (Scanning services available on a target, reveals potential security risks)
- Vendor security (Third party related systems)
Each of these points represents a serious risk to any business system. These are the classic entry points for attack. Passwords, for example, can be "cracked" easily by software if they're not strong enough. That allows free access to the system across the range of the password's access capabilities.
Types of penetration testing
Internal: This type of test mimics an attack by a visitor with basic access to the system. These tests are done within the organization's technological parameters.
External: This test is conducted from outside the organization. It's a "cold" test, in which the testing party uses available technology to attempt to breach security from outside. This test is usually done "from scratch", with or without disclosure of access information to the tester.
Penetration testing results
The multiple levels of penetration testing are conducted holistically and systematically, evaluating each area thoroughly. Results from each level of testing are used to provide a complete picture of vulnerabilities. This is important, because solutions may require a full security design, incorporating system alterations based on the complete system function.
In large systems, creating an effective firewall or dealing with OTS issues will most likely require alterations in other areas. This maintains security levels across the board, and ensures any weaknesses don't remain in the system.
Evaluation and implementation of the penetration test findings
Evaluation of test findings: Evaluation involves analysis of vulnerabilities and risk assessments. The evaluation will include specifications of risks, threats, and assessment of operational issues.
Implementation of test findings: The solutions for a system security program involve:
- Designing a solution to meet identified risks
- Evaluating the scope and cost of the solutions
- Scheduling of the security installation program
- Operational running and check of security measures after installation
These cross checks ensure that the new security system is performing according to specifications, and that operational efficiency is not being affected.
Please note: Best practice in system security includes regular updates and monitoring of system performance, to ensure system integrity. New software or hardware may require testing for compliance with security requirements.
About this Author
HackLabs is a Security Consulting Company specialising in Penetration Testing. We perform testing for our clients whom from all around the world. For more information, visit Penetration Testing.
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