‘Hackers’

Not all hackers are bad

Penetration testing, also known as "pen testing," is a method of evaluating the security of a computer system, network, or web application by simulating an attack from a malicious individual or group. The goal of penetration testing is to identify vulnerabilities in the system that could be exploited by an attacker and to provide recommendations for how to remediate those vulnerabilities.

One of the main benefits of penetration testing is that it allows organizations to proactively identify and address security issues before they can be exploited by an attacker. By simulating an attack, penetration testers can identify vulnerabilities that may not be apparent through other means, such as vulnerability scans or security audits.

Another benefit of penetration testing is that it can be customized to meet the specific needs of an organization. Different types of penetration tests can be used to target different types of systems or applications, such as web applications, networks, or mobile devices. Additionally, different levels of testing can be used, depending on the level of risk an organization is willing to accept.

Penetration testing can be divided into two main categories: black-box testing and white-box testing.

Black box testing, also known as "external testing," simulates an attack from an external attacker who has no knowledge of the system or network being tested. This type of testing is typically used to identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited by an attacker who has gained access to the system or network through a public-facing interface.

White box testing, also known as "internal testing," simulates an attack from an internal attacker who has knowledge of the system or network being tested. This type of testing is typically used to identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited by an insider or by an attacker who has already gained access to the system or network.

Both types of testing are important to conduct as they both provide a different perspective on the security of the target system or network.

Penetration testing is an effective method of evaluating the security of a computer system, network, or web application. By simulating an attack, penetration testing allows organizations to identify vulnerabilities that may not be apparent through other means, and to provide recommendations for how to remediate those vulnerabilities. It is an important step for organizations to take in order to protect sensitive data and stay compliant with industry regulations.