A network pentest is an attack on a computer system that is conducted to identify security weaknesses. The steps involved in conducting a network pentest can be complex, but in this blog post, we will provide a detailed explanation of each step. We will also discuss the benefits of conducting a network pentest and list some of the best companies that offer this service. If you are looking for alternatives to network pentesting, we will also provide information on those services.
What Is A Network Pentest?
A network penetration test is an authorized simulated attack on a computer system. The purpose of this type of pentest is to identify vulnerabilities in the system that could be exploited by a malicious attacker. Pentesting can be conducted manually or with automated tools.
Why Is Conducting A Network Pentest Important?
Conducting a network pentest is important because it allows you to find and fix security vulnerabilities before they are exploited by attackers. By identifying and fixing these weaknesses, you can prevent data breaches, financial loss, and reputational damage.
What Are The Advantages Of Network Pentesting?
There are many benefits of conducting a network pentest, including:
- Identifying security vulnerabilities before attackers do
- Prioritizing security fixes before they are used is critical.
- Data breaches can be prevented by taking steps such as encrypting sensitive data and deploying security measures.
- Preventing financial loss
- Protecting your reputation.
What Are The Steps To Conduct A Network Pentest?
The steps to conducting a network pentest can be divided into four main phases:
Phase One: Planning and Reconnaissance
This phase includes activities such as identifying the scope of the test, setting objectives, and gathering information about the system under test. This data may be collected manually or with automated tools.
Phase Two: Testing
In this stage, hackers will look for ways to exploit the discovered vulnerabilities. This may include running automated vulnerability scanning, brute force attacks, and social engineering attacks.
Phase Three: Reporting
After the testing is complete, all of the findings will be documented in a report. This report will detail the security flaws discovered, how they were exploited, and what mitigation measures should be implemented.
Phase Four: Remediation
The final phase is where all of the identified vulnerabilities are fixed. This may involve patching software, configuring firewalls, or adding security controls.
What Are The Best Companies For Network Pentesting?
There are many firms that provide network auditing services. Some of the best companies include:
- Astra’s Pentest Security
- Rapid Penetration Testing
- Offensive Security
- Secure Code Warrior
- IOActive
- NTT Security.
What Are The Alternatives To Network Pentesting?
If you are looking for alternatives to network pentesting, there are a few options available. These alternatives include:
- Vulnerability Management: Vulnerability management is the process of identifying, classifying, and remediating vulnerabilities.
- Security Audit: An organization’s security posture is evaluated during a security audit. Internal employees or external consultants might undertake this examination.
- Configuration Management: The technique of keeping an organization’s IT infrastructure in a consistent condition is known as configuration management. This includes activities such as change control and asset management.
Network pentesting is a valuable tool for identifying and fixing security vulnerabilities. You can prevent data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage by performing a network pentest.
Common Vulnerabilities Found During Network Pentest- Explain In Detail
There are many common vulnerabilities that are found during network pentest. These vulnerabilities include:
- Insecure protocols: Weak and outdated protocols can be exploited by attackers to gain access to systems or data.
- Unpatched software: Outdated software can contain security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers.
- Lack of encryption: If data is not properly encrypted, it may be stolen and read by attackers.
- Poorly configured firewalls: Incorrectly configured firewalls can allow attacks through.
- Social engineering: Employee social engineering is a type of misuse of access that hackers engage in order to obtain critical information or implement unauthorized changes.
By identifying and fixing these common vulnerabilities, you can improve your overall security posture and reduce the risk of being attacked.
What should you do about the problems?
The steps that you should take to fix the vulnerabilities will vary depending on the specific vulnerability. However, some general steps that you can take include:
- Updating software: Make sure that all software is up-to-date and patched.
- Encrypting data: Determine how you will encrypt your data and whether it’s necessary.
- Configuring firewalls: Properly configure firewalls to prevent attacks from getting through.
- Training employees: Train employees on how to spot social engineering attacks and what steps to take if they are targeted.
By implementing these measures, you may resolve the issues and enhance your overall security.
Conclusion
Performing a network pentest is an excellent approach to uncovering and fixing security flaws. By following the steps in this article, you can ensure that your network pentest is conducted properly and that all of the identified vulnerabilities are fixed.
If you are looking for a company to conduct a network pentest, there are many reputable companies that offer this service. Some of the best companies have been mentioned and we hope it helps you out with your network security needs.
Security testing of the network is only one approach to enhancing an organization’s security posture. Other tools include vulnerability management, security audits, and configuration management. Happy Network Pentesting folks!
Author Bio-
Ankit Pahuja is the Marketing Lead & Evangelist at Astra Security. Ever since his adulthood (literally, he was 20 years old), he began finding vulnerabilities in websites & network infrastructures. Starting his professional career as a software engineer at one of the unicorns enables him in bringing “engineering in marketing” to reality. Working actively in the cybersecurity space for more than 2 years makes him the perfect T-shaped marketing professional. Ankit is an avid speaker in the security space and has delivered various talks on top companies, early-age startups, and online events.