Network penetration testing is used by companies to test the vulnerability of their information systems to network attacks, such as hacking techniques. Through identifying and subsequently exploiting the various weaknesses currently being found in client networks, penetration testers go beyond simple security vulnerability testing. To successfully perform a penetration test, penetration testers first need to understand the network environment they will be testing, its purpose, and the threats that may be posed.
While different companies employ different methodologies used for performing network tests, common methods include a host of fuzzing (or ‘clipping’) tests, application testing, and a few combination fuzzing/pen Testing techniques. Most of these methods are able to detect and extract the malicious software from a host environment, though it is also possible for them to miss a number of vulnerabilities that can result in false negatives. Thus, it is important for a penetration tester to consider which of the above methods are likely to be employed and to be familiar with the utility of each methodology used for penetration testing.
The objective of a network penetration testing job is to find and record security flaws that allow attackers to breach the inner workings of a company’s network. For this reason, a thorough knowledge of the vulnerabilities that could be found is an absolute must. To help achieve this, several methods have been developed for vulnerability assessment, including penetration testing tools, vulnerability assessment methodologies, and vulnerability assessment techniques.
Network Penetration Testing
One of the most important requirements for performing network penetration testing effectively is the knowledge of weak passwords and network security. Passwords, if used correctly, are one of the best ways to prevent attackers from exploiting vulnerabilities. However, when poorly used or maintained, passwords can be much more trouble than they are worth. In order to exploit vulnerabilities, attackers have to know a network’s most common weakness: the weakest point of entry. This is usually the network’s firewall, but other weak points of entry can also be found in application software and hardware, in both computer networks and WAN/ VPN connections.
Once an attacker knows the most common way an application or network infrastructure is exploited, he will begin to prioritize weak points of entry. Depending on his findings, he will select a method for attacking those points. An example of an exploit may involve using a vulnerability to get into a server’s database. While this technique may result in some downtime, it will significantly reduce overall network security. Network penetration tests should exploit vulnerabilities that can be used to bypass any type of overall security solution.
In order to perform vulnerability detection and network penetration testing efficiently, an in-depth knowledge of the most common vulnerabilities is necessary. A thorough knowledge of the vulnerable applications as well as weak points of access can be found by utilizing the services provided by cloud security solutions. Using cloud services helps to ensure that the in-depth knowledge of application vulnerabilities can be performed quickly and efficiently. Through performing in-depth research, companies can make a more informed decision about the execution of a network security solution.
Tags: network penetration testing, ethical hacking, automated, security vulnerabilities, environment
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