Cyber Answer

Exploring the Diverse Areas of Penetration Testing

Katarina V.
Oct 12, 2024By Katarina V.

Introduction to Penetration Testing

Penetration testing is a crucial aspect of cyber security. It involves simulating cyber attacks to identify vulnerabilities in systems. This helps organizations strengthen their defenses.

There are various types of penetration testing. Each type focuses on different aspects of a system. Understanding these areas can help businesses choose the right approach for their needs.

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Infrastructure Penetration Testing

Infra penetration testing targets a company's infrastructure. Testers attempt to exploit weaknesses in configuration, endpoint,opened services, authorization, authentication. We can split the type of infra pentest like the following.

External Network Testing

External network testing focuses on the organization's external-facing assets. This includes web servers, email servers, and other public-facing services. The aim is to identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited from outside the network.

Testers simulate attacks from the internet. This helps in understanding how an external attacker could breach the network.

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Internal Network Testing

Internal network testing, on the other hand, focuses on internal assets. This includes devices and systems within the organization's network. The goal is to identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited by an insider or after a perimeter breach.

Testers simulate attacks from within the network. This helps in identifying risks posed by malicious insiders or compromised devices.The goal is to take full control over the entreprise (owning a domain admin access for example)

Web Application Penetration Testing

Web application penetration testing focuses on web applications. Testers look for vulnerabilities in the application code, configurations, and logic. Common issues include SQL injection, cross-site scripting, and insecure authentication, broken authorization, logic bugs.

Testers use mainly tools like Burp Suite and OWASP ZAP. These tools help in identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications. The goal is to ensure that the application is secure against common web attacks.

Mobile Application Penetration Testing

Mobile application penetration testing is similar to web application testing. However, it focuses on mobile applications. Testers look for vulnerabilities in the mobile app code, backend services, and data storage.

Tools like MobSF and Drozer are commonly used for android. These tools help in analyzing and exploiting vulnerabilities in mobile applications. The goal is to ensure that the mobile app is secure against common mobile threats.

Link to our preferred toolkit:

Social Engineering Testing

Social engineering testing focuses on the human element of security. Testers attempt to manipulate employees into revealing sensitive information. This helps in identifying weaknesses in the organization's security awareness.

Common techniques include phishing emails and phone calls. The goal is to understand how easily employees can be tricked into revealing confidential information or granting unauthorized access.

A businessman works on a laptop computer while a warning box appears on the screen. Blocking spam e-mails, displaying a phishing email warning pop-up, and the network security concept I'm at home.

Conclusion

Penetration testing is a vital part of any cyber security strategy. It helps in identifying and fixing vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by attackers. By understanding the different areas of penetration testing, organizations can choose the right approach to protect their assets.

Whether it's network, web application, mobile application, or social engineering testing, each type plays a crucial role in securing the organization. Regular penetration testing ensures that defenses remain strong and up-to-date.