Description
What is it?
IP Penetration Testing, or Network Penetration Testing, is a proactive security assessment where ethical hackers (penetration testers) attempt to exploit vulnerabilities in your organization's public-facing IP addresses and the systems/services behind them. It goes beyond automated vulnerability scans by simulating real-world attacks to identify weaknesses that automated tools might miss.
Technical Data
How to do it? | |
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Scoping & Planning | Define the scope of the test (which IP addresses, systems, and attack vectors), establish rules of engagement (what's allowed, communication channels), and obtain necessary authorization. |
Reconnaissance | Gather information about the target systems, including open ports, services, software versions, and potential vulnerabilities using tools like Nmap, Shodan, and public information sources. |
Scanning | Conduct deeper scans using vulnerability scanners (Nessus, Qualys, OpenVAS) and specialized tools to identify specific weaknesses. |
Exploitation | Attempt to exploit identified vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access, escalate privileges, or execute malicious code. This often involves manual techniques and custom exploits. |
Post-Exploitation | If successful, explore the compromised system to assess the extent of the breach, identify sensitive data, and pivot to other systems. |
Reporting | Document the findings, including vulnerabilities discovered, exploitation steps, impact analysis, and detailed recommendations for remediation. |
Software Used | |
Vulnerability Scanners | Nessus, Qualys, OpenVAS, Nikto, Acunetix, etc. |
Exploitation Frameworks | Metasploit, Cobalt Strike, Core Impact, etc. |
Network Analysis Tools | Wireshark, tcpdump, Nmap, etc. |
Password Cracking Tools | Hashcat, John the Ripper, etc. |
Custom Scripts & Tools | Developed by penetration testers to address specific scenarios. |
Standards for Testing | |
NIST SP 800-115 | Technical Guide to Information Security Testing and Assessment |
OSSTMM (Open Source Security Testing Methodology Manual) | A comprehensive methodology for security testing. |
PTES (Penetration Testing Execution Standard) | A widely adopted standard defining penetration testing phases and activities. |
OWASP Testing Guide | Focuses on web application penetration testing. |
Industry-Specific Standards | PCI DSS for payment card data, HIPAA for healthcare, etc. |
Key Points | |
Realistic Attacks | Pen testing simulates real-world attacks, going beyond simple vulnerability scans to assess the actual impact of a breach. |
Human Expertise | Skilled penetration testers use their knowledge and experience to uncover vulnerabilities that automated tools might miss. |
Prioritization | Pen tests help prioritize remediation efforts by identifying the most critical vulnerabilities. |
Continuous Improvement | Regular pen testing helps organizations stay ahead of evolving threats and maintain a strong security posture. |