In large organizations, all systems are connected via a LAN (local area network) so that employees among themselves or management and their employees can easily share resources for collective productivity enhancement. But such networks are always the number one target of attackers. How do we deal with that? In this blog, we will discuss the network penetration test.
What Is Network Penetration Testing?
Network penetration testing is the process of the carrying out simulated attacks on one’s own computer networks. By carrying out such intentional attacks, organizations can get a good grasp of their existing security capabilities and identify if any additional security measures are to be taken in order to improve the defence capabilities against malicious attackers.
Benefits of Network Penetration Testing Service
Network penetration testing services benefit organizations in multiple ways. The multifaceted benefits of network security testing include:
Evaluating network security:
Organizations that have deployed networks need to evaluate their network vulnerabilities from time to time. Penetration testing of a network by security professionals is the best method to do it.
Testing the defense capabilities:
Penetration testing in networking involves simulated attacks on the systems and various components participating in the network. It allows testing the defense capacities of all these components
Ensuring data protection:
Organizations can’t allow for data breaches. Data remains the most valuable intellectual property. With the help of network intrusion testing, the channels or sources that cause data breaches are identified and prevented.
Improve network security:
Network penetration testing services help you know what areas of your network are vulnerable to potential threats. It gives recommendations for improvements so you have better security measures against cyber threats.
Types of Network Penetration Testing Service
Network penetration testing companies use two types of testing, or hacking techniques, to identify security flaws within an organization. They are:
- Internal Network Penetration Testing
- External Network Penetration Testing
Let’s discuss them in detail below:
Internal Network Penetration Testing
Internal network penetration testing comprises a pen tester simulating an insider threat. The purpose is to identify to what extent an internal intruder can go on, causing a threat and compromising an organization’s network defense.
External Network Penetration Testing
An external network penetration test involves a pen tester acting as an external threat and simulating attacks on the external facing systems of an organization, such as wireless networks, externally hosted data and accounts, systems, etc.
What Are the Steps in The Network Penetration Test?
Network detective penetration testing is performed to identify the vulnerabilities that an organization might be exposed to. An organization that gives priority to its data and values its customers and stakeholders shouldn’t hesitate to get advanced network penetration testing done periodically.
Network penetration testing and ethical hacking are performed in steps, starting with careful preparation and ending with detailed reporting and providing remediation recommendations. Let’s explore all the steps.
Step 1: Preparation:
At the preparation stage of the network security penetration testing, the client contacts the pen tester and defines the scope and expectations. It enables the pen tester to create a roadmap for security penetration testing.
Step 2: Reconnaissance:
In the second stage, the pen tester gathers information about the network and systems. This is done both passively without interacting with the client and actively through interaction with the client.
Step 3: Vulnerability scanning:
In this automated network penetration testing phase, the pen tester uses advanced security coverage tools like Nmap to scan the client’s systems, networks, and data and find out if there are any vulnerable areas like open ports or live hosts
Step 4: Exploitation:
The pen tester starts exploiting the identified network penetration testing vulnerabilities. It will involve trying to breach the maximum number of accounts and data storage spaces by gaining unauthorized access.
Step 5: Reporting:
In network security and penetration testing, reporting is as important as the pen testing itself. The reporting lets the pen tester inform the client about the findings, steps taken, what the findings would mean for the client, etc.
Step 6: Remediation:
Conclusion
Businesses today heavily rely on digital resources and networks. From resource procurement to employee management to resource planning, it permeates everywhere. Getting to know how secure your network is. Is thus essential to ensuring all your crucial business processes are carried out in a safe and secure environment. We hope this blog sheds light on the major questions you have with regard to network service penetration testing. We are happy to clarify if you have any further questions regarding this topic. Contact us now
Frequently Asked Questions
As you have seen, there are primarily two different approaches to network pen testing: internal and external. In each model, pen testers use a combination of automated tools and human intervention techniques for a perfect assessment of vulnerabilities and execution of the simulated attacks.
The best way to pen test your own network is to hire a reliable team of pen testers. It is important to note that mishandling of data management in web applications and program errors due to the failed intruders’ techniques can have serious ramifications. A licensed pen tester will ensure such human errors won’t happen.
CCNA stands for Cisco Certified Network Associate. It is basically a program that focuses on the fundamentals of networking. While it touches on penetration testing, it doesn’t go into its specifics. So, CCNA certification shouldn’t be the sole basis for your choice of a pen tester. If you are planning to hire someone for pen testing online, make sure that they have a combination of certifications like OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) and CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker).
The cost of network penetration testing depends on the scope of the test. Every organization has a diverse volume of digital resources, and thus the size of the network varies. To get a precise quote, feel free to get in touch with our network penetration test team and define your project scope.
