{"id":757,"date":"2025-04-02T11:14:09","date_gmt":"2025-04-02T09:14:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cloudtango.net\/blog\/?p=757"},"modified":"2025-04-02T11:14:09","modified_gmt":"2025-04-02T09:14:09","slug":"penetration-testing-services-101","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cloudtango.net\/blog\/2025\/04\/02\/penetration-testing-services-101\/","title":{"rendered":"Penetration Testing Services 101"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"elementor elementor-31363\" data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"31363\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-210e78c2 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent e-lazyloaded\" data-id=\"210e78c2\" data-element_type=\"container\">\n<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5e0f3de9 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"5e0f3de9\" data-element_type=\"container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5491d996 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5491d996\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-67464d43 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"67464d43\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-31365\" src=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/penetration-testing-services.webp\" alt=\"Penetration Testing Services - Corsica Technologies\" width=\"1320\" height=\"788\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f595687 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"f595687\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<h1 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Penetration Testing Services 101<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Are you easy to hack?<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s the big question.\u00a0Yet many organizations don\u2019t even know where their weaknesses lie.<\/p>\n<p>Penetration testing\u00a0(AKA pen testing) solves this problem. This is a service provided by a company that specializes in cybersecurity and ethical hacking. The goal of the exercise is simple: Try to breach a system in the same way real hackers would\u2014and see what happens.<\/p>\n<p>But what goes into a pentest?<\/p>\n<p>How do you prepare?<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s everything you need to know to make an impact at your organization.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1f23a8a5 elementor-widget elementor-widget-html\" data-id=\"1f23a8a5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"html.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><a name=\"1\"><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2fdfdd60 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"2fdfdd60\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<h5 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Key points:<\/h5>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3a35e841 elementor-icon-list--layout-traditional elementor-list-item-link-full_width elementor-widget elementor-widget-icon-list\" data-id=\"3a35e841\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"icon-list.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<ul class=\"elementor-icon-list-items\">\n<li class=\"elementor-icon-list-item\"><span class=\"elementor-icon-list-text\">It&#8217;s better to hire a pentest company than do it yourself.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"elementor-icon-list-item\"><span class=\"elementor-icon-list-text\">You don&#8217;t need to test during off-hours.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"elementor-icon-list-item\"><span class=\"elementor-icon-list-text\">There are 6 steps in a penetration test.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"elementor-icon-list-item\"><span class=\"elementor-icon-list-text\">You should prepare your team and your environment ahead of time.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2b8400b1 elementor-widget-divider--view-line_icon elementor-view-default elementor-widget-divider--element-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"2b8400b1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n<div class=\"elementor-icon elementor-divider__element\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3bc9961b elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"3bc9961b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What are penetration testing services?<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-481aaae5 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"481aaae5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>Penetration testing is a cybersecurity exercise that reveals how easy or difficult it is to hack your network.<\/p>\n<p>Theoretically, your team could conduct penetration testing themselves. But if they\u2019re the ones who designed your network infrastructure and continue to maintain it, they may not be the right people to test its defenses.<\/p>\n<p>Penetration testing services help close this gap. These services are conducted by \u201cethical hackers\u201d\u2014cybersecurity experts who can hack just about anything but only use their powers for good. They\u2019re \u201cthe internet\u2019s immune system,\u201d according to cybersecurity expert Keren Elazari.<\/p>\n<h3>Need a pentest? Contact us now \u2192<\/h3>\n<p>As you can imagine, pen test services are essential in today\u2019s threat landscape. They\u2019re the only way to find out the true strength of your network security.<\/p>\n<p>But how is penetration testing different from vulnerability scanning?<\/p>\n<p>Great question!<\/p>\n<h3>Pen testing vs. vulnerability scanning<\/h3>\n<p>If you\u2019re familiar with vulnerability scanning, you might wonder if penetration testing is really just the same service. After all, both exercises are all about network security. So what\u2019s the difference?<\/p>\n<p>Actually, penetration testing and vulnerability scanning are quite distinct. Here\u2019s what you need to know.<\/p>\n<h4>Vulnerability scanning is a passive exercise<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1356c79 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"1356c79\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-11092\" src=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/pen-testing-vs-vulnerability-scanning-2.jpg\" alt=\"Pen Testing vs. Vulnerability Scanning - Main differences - Corsica Technologies\" width=\"1000\" height=\"473\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b9d1be4 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b9d1be4\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>Vulnerability scanning, as the name suggests, is all about\u00a0<em>finding<\/em>\u00a0vulnerabilities. The output of vulnerability scanning is a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/resources\/sample-pentest-report\/\"><strong>pentest report\u00a0<\/strong><\/a>of known security vulnerabilities, but this exercise doesn\u2019t involve ethical hackers actively trying to breach your systems.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Penetration\u00a0testing is an active exercise<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>A good penetration\u00a0test starts with a list of known vulnerabilities\u2014but it goes much farther than that. Rather than simply reporting these potential problems, human actors try to\u00a0<em>exploit<\/em>\u00a0these weaknesses\u2014both those already known, and those unknown before the start of the test.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Vulnerability scanning relies on automated detection<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Modern vulnerability scanning software is incredibly sophisticated. But at the end of the day, it\u2019s still automated. This means it\u2019s only as good as the configurations and rules programmed into the solution. Vulnerability scanning can\u2019t see potential ways to\u00a0<em>exploit<\/em>\u00a0multiple vulnerabilities together, as a real world attacker can.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Penetration testing relies on human intelligence and problem-solving<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-665261c6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"665261c6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-354c680c elementor-widget elementor-widget-html\" data-id=\"354c680c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"html.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>It\u2019s one thing for a vulnerability to exist. It\u2019s another thing entirely for a threat actor to exploit it.<\/p>\n<p>Simply put, it takes real expertise, intent, and perseverance to chain together a series of vulnerabilities into an intelligent attack. By definition, vulnerability scanning can\u2019t demonstrate how your network responds to a real hacking attempt. A penetration test provides real-world results, as long as the service is executed by true experts.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f4144e0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"f4144e0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-11102\" src=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/network-penetration-testing.jpg\" alt=\"Network penetration testing - On premises systems - Corsica Technologies\" width=\"1000\" height=\"445\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5c0a21e elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"5c0a21e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Types of penetration testing<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-522a4957 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"522a4957\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6ae072a3 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"6ae072a3\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>Depending on what systems your organization uses, you\u2019ll need a specific type of penetration testing service\u2014or perhaps more than one. Here are the main types to be aware of.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>A) On premises network penetration testing<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>This type of penetration test applies to on-premises networks and systems. Broadly speaking, there are two subtypes\u2014external vs. internal penetration testing. While they sound similar, they\u2019re actually quite different.<\/p>\n<p><strong>External penetration testing<\/strong>\u00a0takes place from\u00a0<em>outside<\/em>\u00a0your network. Ethical hackers start with nothing but an internet connection, i.e. no access to your network at all, and see if they can get in.<\/p>\n<p>External penetration\u00a0testing is powerful because it replicates the scenario most hackers will face if they try to attack your organization. It measures the first line of defense\u2014can a threat actor gain access to your network? If so, how?<\/p>\n<p><strong>Internal penetration testing<\/strong>\u00a0takes place from\u00a0<em>inside<\/em>\u00a0your network. Ethical hackers start with some degree of access and see how far they can penetrate further, using various exploits. An internal pen tester can (and should) follow an external one, but it can also be performed on its own as required.<\/p>\n<p>Internal penetration\u00a0testing tells you what can happen\u00a0<em>after<\/em>\u00a0a hacker gains access. It reveals how easy it is for a threat actor to move laterally within your network, and it often provides takeaways\u2014such as the need to implement a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/blog\/zero-trust-for-small-business\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Zero Trust framework<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>B) Cloud system penetration testing<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-55a934c elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"55a934c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-11106\" src=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/cloud-system-pentration-testing.jpg\" alt=\"Cloud system penetration testing\" width=\"1000\" height=\"450\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-45e6d80 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"45e6d80\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>Cloud systems come with unique security risks.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.crowdstrike.com\/cybersecurity-101\/cloud-security\/cloud-security-risks-threats-challenges\/\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>As CrowdStrike explains<\/strong><\/a>, factors like unmanaged attack surfaces, human error, and misconfiguration all contribute to the vulnerability of a cloud system.<\/p>\n<p>Cloud penetration\u00a0testing helps to uncover these weaknesses. It also shows how real-world hackers can exploit them to breach the cloud system.<\/p>\n<p>As with on-premises systems, cloud systems should be tested by ethical hackers who\u2019ve been granted varying levels of access. This provides a broad spectrum of penetration\u00a0testing outcomes.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>C) Web application penetration testing<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Web applications\u2014i.e., software solutions delivered through a web browser\u2014come with unique cybersecurity risks. The biggest ones include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Injection attacks<\/strong>, in which a hacker exploits a bug caused by invalid data and uses it to alter the execution of a command.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Security misconfiguration<\/strong>, in which a highly configurable web application has not been thoroughly set up to maximize security.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Vulnerable and outdated components<\/strong>, which occur when a web application depends on any type of software (OS, database management system, APIs, and more) that is out of date or known to contain vulnerabilities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In this scenario, the pentesting company tries to breach a web application using these and other types of entry points. As always, the goal is to see what real-world hackers can do. If your organization develops and sells web applications, this type of penetration testing is essential.<\/p>\n<p>However, some organizations may choose to conduct penetration\u00a0tests against web applications that they<em>\u00a0use<\/em>\u00a0as well. In this case, it\u2019s best to let your web application provider know that you plan to conduct a penetration test on your instance of the software.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>D) Mobile application penetration testing<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Due to their unique architecture, mobile applications come with potential vulnerabilities that should be examined through penetration\u00a0testing. Dependence on third-party APIs creates a unique attack surface, while lackluster encryption can make mobile apps especially easy to hack.<\/p>\n<p>Between these factors and others like weak authentication policies and unpatched vulnerabilities, mobile apps need regular penetration\u00a0testing to keep them secure.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-efe4fcf elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"efe4fcf\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Threats typically uncovered by pen tests<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0ad9ba0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"0ad9ba0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>Some penetration tests uncover only a few threats. Others find many identified vulnerabilities. At a high level, here are the most common issues uncovered by penetration testers . This list isn\u2019t exhaustive, but it does show the wide range of vulnerabilities that can exist on a network without anyone realizing it.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Misconfigured firewalls<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Having a firewall in place isn\u2019t enough. You also need to configure that firewall appropriately. The requirements may vary depending on your business or applicable regulation. In some cases, the default configuration of a firewall may be too permissive for your scenario.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Weak or obsolete encryption<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>An older system may still be running outdated encryption protocols. These protocols may pose a risk because they are less complex than modern protocols\u2014or because they\u2019ve actually been broken in documented attacks.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Password vulnerabilities<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Older systems may have less stringent password requirements that leave them vulnerable to attack. In some cases, a system may have a default password in place that was never changed. Penetration testing services frequently uncover these types of password issues.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Authorization vulnerabilities<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Improper control of user privileges can lead to more user accounts having more sensitive access than they need. This can happen when the default privileges for new accounts are too comprehensive, and there is no program in place to limit access to the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Principle_of_least_privilege\" rel=\"noopener\">principle of least privilege<\/a>. Lack of thoughtful controls here can lead to vulnerabilities due to user accounts having greater default access than they should.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Deprecated operating systems<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e831b75 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"e831b75\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-11197\" src=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/pen-testing-services-deprecated-operating-systems.jpg\" alt=\"Pen Testing Services - Deprecated operating systems discovered - Corsica Technologies\" width=\"1000\" height=\"475\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ffa5a74 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ffa5a74\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-865fce6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"865fce6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>The moment an operating system is released, its days are numbered. Hackers start exploring it for vulnerabilities, hardware keeps evolving, and the time will come for the OS to be deprecated and replaced with the newest version. Unfortunately, organizations with limited IT resources may struggle to execute operating system updates in a timely fashion. This can lead to vulnerabilities once an OS is no longer supported by the vendor.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Unpatched operating systems<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Even while an operating system is still supported, it can\u2019t stay static. Vulnerabilities are discovered all the time, and the OS vendor releases patches that must be applied to keep the system secure. Unpatched operating systems are one of the easiest ways for threat actors to execute a breach.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Unpatched applications<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Just like operating systems, applications often require patches to mitigate vulnerabilities. Unpatched applications give hackers an easy entry point to execute an attack.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Injection attacks<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>An injection attack takes advantage of a bug in processing to \u201cinject\u201d malicious code into the data exchanged by two systems. It\u2019s especially dangerous, as it\u2019s often seen in attacks against databases and other essential systems.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-77fcb4e elementor-widget elementor-widget-html\" data-id=\"77fcb4e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"html.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><a name=\"2\"><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e32c75b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"e32c75b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-865fce6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"865fce6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<h4 class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><strong>Cross-site scripting attacks<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1a2cac1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"1a2cac1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>This is a specific type of injection attack that inserts malicious scripts into data exchanged by trusted websites. Without a penetration test, this type of vulnerability is difficult to detect until the unthinkable happens.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Lack of monitoring and logging<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>At the end of the day, effective cybersecurity requires real human experts taking ownership of all things security-related. 24\/7\/365 monitoring and logging of traffic are essential components of an effective cybersecurity practice. Penetration testing can reveal a lack of monitoring and logging, empowering you to address these issues before something happens.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-67ba3c9 elementor-widget-divider--view-line_icon elementor-view-default elementor-widget-divider--element-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"67ba3c9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n<div class=\"elementor-icon elementor-divider__element\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1394ba62 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"1394ba62\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Can you do pentesting with staff resources?<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2c275d13 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"2c275d13\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-29acb561 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"29acb561\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>Theoretically, you could conduct a pentest yourself\u2014if you had the expertise on staff.<\/p>\n<p>But most companies don\u2019t have penetration testing expertise. And even if you did, you want to think about the potential conflict of interest.<\/p>\n<p>Do your internal network engineers really want to find flaws in their work?<\/p>\n<p>Not necessarily. That goes against their interests.<\/p>\n<p>This is why\u00a0<strong>it\u2019s best to hire an external partner for penetration testing.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Here are 7 great reasons to choose a pen testing services company.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>1. You get the external perspective you need<\/strong><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-59635a48 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"59635a48\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-11078\" src=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/pen-testing-services-company-benefits.jpg\" alt=\"Pen testing services company | Benefits | Corsica Technologies\" width=\"1000\" height=\"464\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-33e6fa1d elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"33e6fa1d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-29acb561 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"29acb561\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>A penetration testing company will have ethical hackers on staff who are career experts in cybersecurity. Unlike internal resources, these professionals don\u2019t particularly care if your network passes or fails the test. In fact, they have no skin in the game other than overturning every stone\u2014and finding every possible attack vector.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>2. You get the data you need to strengthen your security posture<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>You can\u2019t mitigate weaknesses if you don\u2019t know what they are. While the results might not be what you want to hear, they\u2019re the first step in getting stronger.<\/p>\n<p>A penetration\u00a0testing company also gives you a powerful deliverable\u2014a report of vulnerabilities that were exploited (and\u00a0<em>how<\/em>\u00a0they were exploited). This document gives you (or your\u00a0<strong>cyber security managed services<\/strong>\u00a0provider) a clear path to improve your security posture.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>3. You get real-world results, not just potential entry points<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>As we discussed above, vulnerability scanning reveals\u00a0<em>potential<\/em>\u00a0entry points for a network breach.<\/p>\n<p>A pentest service provider gives you a report of\u00a0<em>real<\/em>\u00a0entry points for\u00a0<em>real<\/em>\u00a0breaches conducted by ethical hackers. There\u2019s simply no other way to get that information\u2014other than being hacked by criminals.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>4. Your network team can gather significant takeaways from the findings<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Even the most seasoned IT professionals need to keep learning. Operating systems, patches, and threats are always evolving.<\/p>\n<p>Regular penetration testing gives your network team the real-world data they need to stay sharp. There are always takeaways from a penetration test, and your IT staff will reap the benefits in new learning.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>5. You can raise awareness of cybersecurity within your company<\/strong><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a3d53f6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"a3d53f6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-11082\" src=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/pen-testing-services-raise-awareness-of-cybersecurity.jpg\" alt=\"Pen testing services | Raise awareness of cybersecurity in your organization | Corsica Technologies\" width=\"1000\" height=\"437\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-843da20 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"843da20\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8d8f677 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"8d8f677\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>Everyone knows cybersecurity matters, but not everyone knows how much.<\/p>\n<p>Knowledge of specific cybersecurity controls is also rare. Your team may have no idea just what it takes to keep your organization secure.<\/p>\n<p>Sharing the results of a penetration test within your company can raise some eyebrows. While the results may be uncomfortable, they may be just what your organization needs to start thinking hard about cybersecurity.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-67ede34 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"67ede34\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<h3><strong>6. You can use the results to get buy-in for better cybersecurity controls<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>When budgeting time comes around, every department competes for a limited number of dollars. It\u2019s challenging for leadership to make the right decisions in allocations, and even the best-intentioned executives can miss out on crucial cybersecurity information. Ultimately, this leads to reduced cybersecurity spending\u2014and greater exposure to a breach.<\/p>\n<p>The results of a pentest can help get the executive attention you need to address cybersecurity. This is especially true if your company has never emphasized cybersecurity before.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>7. You can make intelligent decisions about cloud vs. on premises solutions<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>While cloud is the buzzword today, it\u2019s important to understand that not every system should be served in the cloud. You need to analyze the long-term cost carefully\u2014and security is an essential component in that calculation. A penetration test can help you determine if you\u2019re using the right delivery model for a particular system.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>What to look for in a pen testing company<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Many cybersecurity companies offer penetration services, but it pays to be selective when you look for a partner. The quality of a penetration test is dependent on the expertise of the ethical hackers who provide the service. First and foremost, you want to understand the background of the hackers who will conduct your test.<\/p>\n<p>Beyond that, you should also consider what happens\u00a0<em>after<\/em>\u00a0the exercise. A good pen test company will provide a detailed report of what happened, with recommendations for mitigating vulnerabilities. You\u2019ll want to think about who\u2019s going to implement those changes.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s everything you should look for in a reputable pentest service provider. Consider bringing in your IT staff (or your MSP) to help evaluate a penetration testing company.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Career security experts in ethical hacking<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1f6f2f0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"1f6f2f0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-11138\" src=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/pen-testing-company-ethical-hacking-experts.jpg\" alt=\"Pen testing company - Ethical hacking experts - Corsica Technologies\" width=\"1000\" height=\"493\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7f862bc elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7f862bc\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>It takes a certain type of person to succeed as an ethical hacker. The University of Denver\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/bootcamp.du.edu\/blog\/the-complete-guide-to-ethical-hacking\/\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>puts it this way<\/strong><\/a>: \u201cThose with a curious mind, a taste for coding, and a tenacious personality may want to consider [a career in] ethical hacking.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>While these qualities are essential, they\u2019re just the foundation for a great ethical hacker. When your organization conducts a penetration test, you want ethical hackers with deep experience. Consider asking to see the resumes or LinkedIn profiles of the hackers who work with the service provider. The right partner should offer transparency here, allowing you to judge the experience and expertise of their team members.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Experience with the systems you need to test<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Depending on what type of system you\u2019re having tested, you may need a partner with specialized experience breaching that type of system. Thoroughness is important here, since penetration\u00a0test services are only as good as the hackers are thorough. You want experts who really know how to work with the systems in question. This is the best way to ensure your ethical hackers overturn every stone.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Consulting expertise to define your path forward<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>It\u2019s one thing to offer pen testing services and a report detailing the outcome of the exercise. But what do you\u00a0<em>do<\/em>\u00a0with that pentest outcome?<\/p>\n<p>The right service provider should also offer clear guidance on your path forward. For every vulnerability assessment and simulated attack vector uncovered, your partner should give you a coherent plan for mitigating risk.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ddca821 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ddca821\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<h4><strong>Full-service MSP\/MSSP (not just a\u00a0penetration\u00a0testing company)<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Most organizations lack the cybersecurity resources to mitigate vulnerabilities uncovered by a penetration test. Unless you\u2019re a global enterprise with an internal cybersecurity team, you\u2019ll need a trusted partner to implement the increased cybersecurity controls that your pentesting company recommends.<\/p>\n<p>You could look for another company to implement these security controls\u2014but you\u2019ll get more bang for your buck if your penetration\u00a0testing company is\u00a0<em>also<\/em>\u00a0a full-service IT and cybersecurity provider, i.e. a combined MSP\/MSSP. Working with a company like this gives you synergy across teams and systems that\u2019s difficult to achieve when you work with multiple vendors.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-448ada4c elementor-widget-divider--view-line_icon elementor-view-default elementor-widget-divider--element-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"448ada4c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n<div class=\"elementor-icon elementor-divider__element\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-40b462d2 elementor-widget elementor-widget-html\" data-id=\"40b462d2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"html.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><a name=\"3\"><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5592b449 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"5592b449\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-31438\" src=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/off-hours-penetration-testing.webp\" alt=\"Off-hours penetration testing - Corsica Technoloiges\" width=\"1320\" height=\"678\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6cf5f476 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"6cf5f476\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Should you test during off-hours?<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8b907c6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"8b907c6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>This is a great question.<\/p>\n<p>A penetration test\u00a0<em>is<\/em>\u00a0a real hacking exercise. It involves scanning systems for vulnerabilities, then attempting to exploit those vulnerabilities in real time. This makes even the most experienced IT admin a little nervous!<\/p>\n<p>Broadly speaking, these concerns fall into two categories.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Concerns about server load.<\/strong>\u00a0Will the vulnerability scanning software, and the hackers themselves, place a disruptive load on a server that\u2019s processing critical information or traffic during business hours? If so, how will any downtime impact operations and revenue?<\/li>\n<li><strong>Concerns about data loss.<\/strong>\u00a0Will the ethical hackers accidentally delete essential data in the course of an exploit?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Here\u2019s the good news. Ethical hackers are\u2026 ethical!<\/p>\n<p>Your hackers will work closely with you to ensure they provide a valuable test without harming the business. Generally speaking, vulnerability scanning software doesn\u2019t produce a big enough load to take down a server. If that load\u00a0<em>is\u00a0<\/em>big enough to take down a server, then the device had issues to begin with, and your ethical hackers will include this information in their\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/resources\/sample-pentest-report\/\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>pentest report<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Likewise, your penetration\u00a0testing team isn\u2019t going to conduct DDoS (dedicated denial of service) attacks or hold essential data for ransom. Their goal is to infiltrate a system\u2014not actually take it down.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-989971d elementor-widget elementor-widget-html\" data-id=\"989971d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"html.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><a name=\"4\"><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f47c89d elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"f47c89d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>This is important because off-hours penetration or security tests may cost more than those conducted during business hours.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s rare that an organization truly needs off-hours penetration\u00a0testing. That said, talk to your penetration\u00a0testing company if you\u2019re concerned about conducting the operation during business hours. The right company will advise on the best way to approach penetration\u00a0testing in your scenario.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1d8433ac elementor-widget-divider--view-line_icon elementor-view-default elementor-widget-divider--element-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"1d8433ac\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n<div class=\"elementor-icon elementor-divider__element\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3d5889a7 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"3d5889a7\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Penetration testing steps<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1fede7eb elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"1fede7eb\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-20a939cb elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"20a939cb\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>Different penetration\u00a0testing companies will use different methodologies. Your provider can explain the exact process that they\u2019ll use.<\/p>\n<p>That said, all methodologies ultimately work toward the same thing. Generally speaking, here are the steps your provider will take as they execute your penetration test.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>1. Intelligence gathering<\/strong><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4c3bfd37 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"4c3bfd37\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-11154\" src=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/penetration-testing-steps-methodology-intelligence-gathering.jpg\" alt=\"Penetration Testing Steps and Methodology - Intelligence Gathering - Corsica Technologies\" width=\"1000\" height=\"487\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b35113b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b35113b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-20a939cb elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"20a939cb\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>Before a hacker tries to breach your systems, they\u2019ll take time to gather as much publicly-available information as they can. This means analyzing all systems that are connected to the internet and getting a sense of the potential attack surface.<\/p>\n<p>Your ethical hacking team will do the same thing. Just like unethical hackers would, they\u2019ll analyze the entire publicly-accessible attack surface of your network. This ensures that your pen test is thorough, leaving no stone unturned.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>2. Network &amp; application reconnaissance<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Now it\u2019s time to take an inventory of your assets. This means sweeping for live hosts and services running within your network\u2019s range. Any such host or service may provide an entry point, so it\u2019s essential to be thorough. Your pen testing company needs to try\u00a0<em>everything<\/em>\u00a0when they attempt to breach your systems.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>3. Vulnerability discovery &amp; analysis<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Once your ethical hackers have established a list of all live hosts and services running in your network, it\u2019s time to find any vulnerabilities that may exist. The penetration testing team will use interactive procedures to audit your endpoints, processes, technology, and network for vulnerabilities.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>4. Ethical hacking exercises<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Now the fun begins!<\/p>\n<p>The ethical hackers will use all the information they\u2019ve gathered to hack into your systems (if they can). This phase will look different depending on what vulnerabilities and potential attack vectors were discovered. The team will log everything to make sure you get a comprehensive penetration test\u2014and a highly detailed\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/resources\/sample-pentest-report\/\"><strong>pentest report<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>5. Executive summary &amp; formal presentation<\/strong><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a5fb818 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"a5fb818\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-11158\" src=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/pen-testing-services-executive-summary.jpg\" alt=\"Pen testing services - Executive summary - Corsica Technologies\" width=\"1000\" height=\"481\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2ef515c elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"2ef515c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>The results of pentest aren\u2019t just for the IT team. All stakeholders need to understand the findings.<\/p>\n<p>This is why the best service providers present a formal executive summary in plain language. Every stakeholder deserves a clear explanation that they can understand. Likewise, the best providers invite discussion when they present the findings, so stakeholders can ask questions and leave with answers.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>6. Technical report &amp; targeted action plan<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>The executive summary is essential for cross-functional understanding of the findings. But ultimately, penetration testing reveals technical gaps in cybersecurity. Therefore, the best pentesting companies provide both a technical report and a targeted action plan to maximize the value of the exercise.<\/p>\n<p>The key here is the targeted action plan, which provides a roadmap for mitigating any vulnerabilities uncovered. Without execution of this roadmap, your existing vulnerabilities will remain, and new ones will likely arise.<\/p>\n<p>If your company has the staff resources, you may choose to implement the remediation plan yourself. If you don\u2019t have those resources on staff, your penetration\u00a0testing company may be able to implement them\u2014or recommend an expert partner to assist.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3e3efb0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"3e3efb0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Next steps after a pen test<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a3945be elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"a3945be\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>The results of a penetration test can be uncomfortable. The goal was to uncover issues, and every system has them\u2014even the best-designed.<\/p>\n<p>The key here is not to focus on the negative, but to look at the path forward. The findings of a penetration test give an organization concrete steps to creating a more secure environment.<\/p>\n<p>Yet most midmarket companies don\u2019t have the resources on staff to deal with the test results.<\/p>\n<p>If that\u2019s the case, you should look for an\u00a0MSSP (managed cybersecurity services provider)\u00a0who can implement the controls you need. Ideally, this partner should act as an extension of your IT team, working collaboratively and bringing their expertise to bear on your environment.<\/p>\n<p>Corsica Technologies has solved this problem for 1,000+ clients. We cover\u00a0cybersecurity services\u00a0from top to bottom, including penetration\u00a0testing, 24\/7\/365 monitoring, incident remediation, strategic planning, and more. You get access to an entire security team of cyber professionals\u2014without breaking the bank.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3f878066 elementor-widget elementor-widget-html\" data-id=\"3f878066\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"html.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><a name=\"5\"><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5656d13 elementor-widget-divider--view-line_icon elementor-view-default elementor-widget-divider--element-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"5656d13\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n<div class=\"elementor-icon elementor-divider__element\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-691fd4ee elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"691fd4ee\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-31476\" src=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/penetration-testing-preparation.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"1320\" height=\"674\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1660f58f elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"1660f58f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">How to prepare for your penetration test<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7401ac60 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7401ac60\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-25008c43 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"25008c43\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>Setting up a penetration test isn\u2019t as simple as making a phone call and picking a date. To get the most out of the service, you need to put some time and effort into the preparations.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s what that looks like.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>A) Define your\u00a0<\/strong>penetration<strong>\u00a0testing objective, system scope, and measure of success<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><em>Why<\/em>\u00a0are you conducting a penetration\u00a0test?<\/p>\n<p>While the answer to this question may seem obvious, you want to get specific.<\/p>\n<p>Are you concerned about external vulnerabilities exposed on the internet?<\/p>\n<p>Are you concerned about internal vulnerabilities, and you want to see how easy it is for an inside threat actor to move laterally?<\/p>\n<p>Are you concerned about the security of a cloud system?<\/p>\n<p>Whatever the situation, you should define your specific objectives, as well as the systems that you\u2019ll test. Only then can you define your measure of success.<\/p>\n<p>Here are some objectives we commonly see, plus the corresponding systems, measures of success, and types of penetration\u00a0test needed.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ebf0fe7 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"ebf0fe7\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-11254\" src=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Final-Artwork.png\" alt=\"Network pen testing chart - Goals and types of tests - Corsica Technologies\" width=\"800\" height=\"470\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0b7687f elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"0b7687f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<h3><strong>B) Let your IT team know you\u2019re planning a\u00a0<\/strong>penetration<strong>\u00a0test (and include them)<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Whether you have an internal IT team, a\u00a0managed network services provider, or a combination of the two, you\u2019ll want to bring your IT experts into the process. Your admins need to know that a penetration\u00a0test is going to happen.<\/p>\n<p>This will prepare them for any alarming notifications, but they can actually play a larger strategic role, too. With their expertise, they\u2019re the ideal resources to consult as you evaluate penetration\u00a0testing companies (next step).<\/p>\n<h3><strong>C) Evaluate\u00a0<\/strong>pen<strong>\u00a0testing companies and pick one<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Now it\u2019s time to find a qualified pentest provider.<\/p>\n<p>While many organizations these services, you\u2019ll want to do your research and ask tough questions. Your IT team may be able to help vet potential partners.<\/p>\n<p>For details, see above, What to look for in a penetration\u00a0testing company.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>D) Schedule your\u00a0<\/strong>penetration<strong>\u00a0test<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Once you\u2019ve chosen a company, it\u2019s time to get that penetration test on the calendar.<\/p>\n<p>But when should you schedule your test? Should it occur during off-hours to minimize the impact to essential systems? Or is that not worth the extra expense?<\/p>\n<p>See above, Should you run penetration\u00a0testing during business hours?<\/p>\n<h3><strong>E) Prepare your environment(s)<\/strong><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6af4e1c elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"6af4e1c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-11183\" src=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/pen-testing-services-prepare-your-environments.jpg\" alt=\"Pen testing services prepare your environments\" width=\"1000\" height=\"485\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5242a1f elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5242a1f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-bbfcb2b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"bbfcb2b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>A penetration\u00a0test will poke and prod the environment in question.<\/p>\n<p>Any time you\u2019re doing that, it\u2019s a good idea to make a backup of any essential data.<\/p>\n<p>You might also consider conducting the penetration\u00a0test on an exact copy of the production environment. While a penetration\u00a0test shouldn\u2019t disrupt the system in question, using a mirrored environment will minimize any potential impact to the business. This practice can also help address the concerns of stakeholders who are worried about how penetration\u00a0testing may affect critical systems and data.<\/p>\n<p>Depending on the type of penetration test, the ethical hackers may also need access to certain systems. This is especially true if you\u2019re doing an internal pentest. In that case, you\u2019ll want to create accounts for the ethical hackers, or else share existing credentials with them in a secure manner.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>F) Whitelist the ethical hackers\u2019 IP addresses<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>This step is easy to overlook.<\/p>\n<p>If ethical hackers are going to access your systems, you\u2019ll need to ensure their IP addresses are whitelisted. Do this ahead of time, and you\u2019ll ensure the operation goes smoothly on testing day.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>G) Establish communication protocols for the testing process<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Unlike real hackers, ethical hackers make themselves available for communication during the hacking exercise. Typically, your penetration\u00a0testing company will provide a point of contact who works with the hacking team. Your organization should also designate a point of contact and establish expectations and communication protocols before the event starts. This way, that everything goes according to plan when the exercise starts.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>H) Remind your IT team that the test is starting<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>If you brought your IT team into the vendor evaluation process, it\u2019s worth keeping them updated as the test draws closer.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ef99714 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ef99714\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>If you haven\u2019t brought your IT team in yet, now is the time. You\u2019ll want to let them know the date and time when the test begins, the systems being tested, and how long the test should run.<\/p>\n<p>There\u2019s one exception to this rule. Some companies may intentionally conduct a penetration test\u00a0<em>without<\/em>\u00a0telling internal resources about it. This allows your organization to test its\u00a0<em>response<\/em>\u00a0to an intrusion\u2014although this needs to be strategized carefully, with structure in place and a designated point at which to inform your team on what\u2019s going on. The right penetration\u00a0testing company can help you construct this type of exercise.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>I) Remain on standby during the test<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>It\u2019s a good idea to keep your point of contact available during the penetration\u00a0test. If the hacking team encounters any unplanned issues or has questions, you want to address them quickly to get the most value out of the test.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-66f0b7b5 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"66f0b7b5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">The takeaway:<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7acc7ba1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"7acc7ba1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Don&#8217;t wait to test your defenses<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7bbdd5cf elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7bbdd5cf\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<p>If it\u2019s been a while since your last penetration test, or if you\u2019ve never done one, it\u2019s time to see how strong your defenses are. A pen test can literally save your organization from a cyber attack by uncovering vulnerabilities before criminals exploit them. That\u2019s why this exercise is a must in today\u2019s complex cyber threat landscape.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-107589bc elementor-widget-divider--view-line_icon elementor-view-default elementor-widget-divider--element-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"107589bc\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n<div class=\"elementor-icon elementor-divider__element\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5e27a01b e-grid e-con-boxed e-con e-child\" data-id=\"5e27a01b\" data-element_type=\"container\">\n<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6c80171f elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"6c80171f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<h2>Ready to get your pentest?<\/h2>\n<p>Contact us today explore penetration testing at your organization.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/contact\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Contact Us Now \u2192<\/a><\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2dd76645 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"2dd76645\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-15149\" src=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/edi-project-moving-forward.jpg\" alt=\"EDI Project - Moving forward - Corsica Technologies\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2f7f77d0 e-con-full elementor-hidden-tablet e-flex e-con e-child elementor-sticky elementor-sticky--active elementor-section--handles-inside elementor-sticky--effects\" data-id=\"2f7f77d0\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;sticky&quot;:&quot;top&quot;,&quot;sticky_offset&quot;:185,&quot;sticky_on&quot;:[&quot;desktop&quot;,&quot;laptop&quot;],&quot;sticky_parent&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;sticky_effects_offset&quot;:0,&quot;sticky_anchor_link_offset&quot;:0}\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5eee0c26 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"5eee0c26\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;}\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3329c5ca elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"3329c5ca\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2f7f77d0 e-con-full elementor-hidden-tablet e-flex e-con e-child elementor-sticky elementor-sticky__spacer\" data-id=\"2f7f77d0\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;sticky&quot;:&quot;top&quot;,&quot;sticky_offset&quot;:185,&quot;sticky_on&quot;:[&quot;desktop&quot;,&quot;laptop&quot;],&quot;sticky_parent&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;sticky_effects_offset&quot;:0,&quot;sticky_anchor_link_offset&quot;:0}\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5eee0c26 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"5eee0c26\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;}\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3329c5ca elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"3329c5ca\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<h5><a href=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/blog\/author\/rossfilipek\/\"><span class=\"elementor-icon-list-icon\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"elementor-avatar\" src=\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9da233dd0e9ae1cdfb13a7832e10c9c2?s=96&amp;d=mm&amp;r=g\" alt=\"Picture of Ross Filipek\" \/><\/span><\/a><\/h5>\n<h5><a href=\"https:\/\/www.corsicatech.com\/blog\/author\/rossfilipek\/\"><span class=\"elementor-icon-list-text elementor-post-info__item elementor-post-info__item--type-author\">Ross Filipek<\/span><\/a><\/h5>\n<h5><\/h5>\n<h5><\/h5>\n<h5><\/h5>\n<h5><\/h5>\n<h5><\/h5>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3d97d0ac e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"3d97d0ac\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;}\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4cdb82bd elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"4cdb82bd\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<h5><\/h5>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b339cc3 elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"b339cc3\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"elementor elementor-20983 elementor-location-footer\" data-elementor-type=\"footer\" data-elementor-id=\"20983\" data-elementor-post-type=\"elementor_library\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0bd5c74 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent e-lazyloaded\" data-id=\"0bd5c74\" data-element_type=\"container\">\n<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-87c09e0 foot e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"87c09e0\" data-element_type=\"container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-478cc73 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"478cc73\" data-element_type=\"container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5bf3826 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"5bf3826\" data-element_type=\"container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ecb237c e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"ecb237c\" data-element_type=\"container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8db0720 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"8db0720\" data-element_type=\"container\">\n<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-153c495 client-support elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"153c495\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Penetration Testing Services 101 Are you easy to hack? That\u2019s the big question.\u00a0Yet many organizations don\u2019t even know where their weaknesses lie. Penetration testing\u00a0(AKA pen testing) solves this problem. This is a service provided by a company that specializes in cybersecurity and ethical hacking. The goal of the exercise is simple: Try to breach a[\u2026] <a class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cloudtango.net\/blog\/2025\/04\/02\/penetration-testing-services-101\/\">Read<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" enable-background=\"new 0 0 24 24\" height=\"16px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" width=\"16px\" fill=\"#091926\"><rect fill=\"none\" height=\"16\" width=\"16\"\/><path d=\"M14.29,5.71L14.29,5.71c-0.39,0.39-0.39,1.02,0,1.41L18.17,11H3c-0.55,0-1,0.45-1,1v0c0,0.55,0.45,1,1,1h15.18l-3.88,3.88 c-0.39,0.39-0.39,1.02,0,1.41l0,0c0.39,0.39,1.02,0.39,1.41,0l5.59-5.59c0.39-0.39,0.39-1.02,0-1.41L15.7,5.71 C15.32,5.32,14.68,5.32,14.29,5.71z\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7,11,15],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-757","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-cybersecurity","category-managed-it","category-mssps"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cloudtango.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/757","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cloudtango.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cloudtango.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cloudtango.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cloudtango.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=757"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.cloudtango.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/757\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":762,"href":"https:\/\/www.cloudtango.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/757\/revisions\/762"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cloudtango.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=757"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cloudtango.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=757"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cloudtango.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=757"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}