The Internet has created several new chances for businesses all across the world. However, it has also introduced new dangers and weaknesses that malicious actors may easily exploit. Smart businesses aim to uncover exploitable vulnerabilities in their networks and systems as early as feasible to safeguard their assets from threat actors. They understand, however, that merely identifying vulnerabilities is insufficient. They must also deal with issues before hackers may take advantage of them. And penetration testing is essential for this.
Pen Test vs. Vulnerability Scans: What’s the Difference?
Vulnerability scans provide a purpose in cybersecurity. After all, they automate the testing environment of the organization. Using a specified list of known vulnerabilities, automation can assist in identifying flaws. The italicized phrases, on the other hand, point to the weaknesses of vulnerability scanners. Yes, they can detect vulnerabilities before cybercriminals, save businesses time and money, and help them satisfy security compliance needs. However, because they rely on a list of known security flaws, they are only as good as the most recent update. Delays in upgrades result in obsolete scanners that overlook major flaws, increasing the danger to enterprises.
Pen tests, as opposed to vulnerability scans, are carried out manually by skilled persons working with a specialized organization such as ZOFixer. It employs cutting-edge tools and technologies but does not rely on automation to provide significant insights. The tester thoroughly evaluates a variety of issue kinds and offers a complete test report that includes results and prescriptive recommendations. Some experts, such as ZOFixer, do root cause analysis to inform and reinforce their strategic and tactical suggestions.
When Should a Pen Test Be Conducted?
First, enterprises must recognize that a pen test is not a one-time event. The cyber threat landscape is ever-changing. New vulnerabilities are identified on a regular basis, and for every cybercriminal that hangs up their boots (one can only hope! ), three more take their place. That is why it is critical to establish timed “goal posts” to guide the organization’s pen test approach.
- As a result, anytime these conditions arise, pen tests should be performed:
- The addition of new components or applications to the IT infrastructure,
- Significant alterations or enhancements to the infrastructure are undertaken, even if no new components are added.
- Security patches are fixes that are applied to antivirus or firewall software.
- Mergers and acquisitions of businesses (should be conducted before acquiring or merging)
Pen tests are crucial for establishing a solid security posture since almost all businesses encounter these circumstances during their operations.
The “optimal” moment to undertake pen testing is just before a system goes into production. This is significant since the system is no longer in a continual state of change at this point. On the other hand, when companies (start and finish) pen-testing too early, i.e. when the system is still being deployed, they may overlook critical vulnerabilities that have not yet been found.
Pen testing is especially critical in odd or infrequent circumstances, such as when the company’s location changes or another office is added to the business network.
How Frequently Should a Pen Test Be Performed?
For most businesses, many pen test specialists propose yearly or semi-annual pen testing. However, this is more of a guideline than a requirement.
A yearly pen test can help to lessen the company’s security concerns. And it’s certainly preferable to no pen-testing at all! However, today’s organizations are prone to making quick modifications to their production methods. As a result, they should preferably execute pen tests periodically or soon after a modification in an application or its underlying technology. As a general rule, penetration testing should be spread out over the course of the year, with a quarterly external pen test and a semi-annual internal test.
Other considerations to consider while determining pen test frequency include:
- Size of the company
- Potential vulnerability to attack vectors
- Industry
- Size/type of infrastructure
- Industry-specific regulatory framework
Conclusion
When it comes to pen test scheduling and frequency, money is a significant consideration for enterprises. Organizations, on the other hand, should be aware of and focus on their benefits rather than only on expenses. A pen test can increase corporate security and resilience in the face of a threat environment. It also requires the company to be more cautious and proactive in order to reduce security concerns.