Pen testing is defined as a security exercise where a cyber-security specialist wants to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in a computer system. The main objective of this replicated attack is to pinpoint any weak areas in a system’s defenses that the attacker must take advantage of.
In recent times, companies have realized the significance of pen testing services to enhance their cyber resilience. Nevertheless, old pen testing is not enough in the present dynamic threat scenario. Trends these days highlight the significance of an increased proactive and continuous approach to security testing. Continuous pen testing will record high growth over the coming years, both in SMEs and large enterprises.
What is Cyber Resilience?
In contrast to traditional cyber security, cyber resilience functions by recognizing the predictability of breaches and cyber-attacks. It is beyond just preventing attacks but rather developing processes and models that guarantee that a company’s main operations are functional is a less as possible after any incident. A resilient company would be able to guarantee the protection of sensitive data, business continuity, and maintaining the trust of customers. This is done by applying robust security measures.
The Advantages of Continuous Pen Testing in Cyber Resilience
Pen testing plays an important role in improving a company’s cyber resilience through proactive identification and exploitation of vulnerabilities in networks and systems.
Over the past few years, companies have shifted from traditional pen testing because of its periodic nature to continuous pen-testing (CPT). This offers an integrated, automated, and ongoing approach to vulnerability remediation and assessment.
Keeping this scenario under consideration, we are presenting some of the advantages of continuous pen testing for the companies.
It Leads To Cost Savings
The initial investment in CPT is more than traditional pen testing. The long-term cost savings can be considered in this scenario. Companies can decrease the risk of expensive downtimes and data breaches by being productive. Concentrating on the major vulnerabilities against pursuing shadows can prove to be very cost-effective.
Quicker Remediation
Characteristically, traditional pen testing entails a long process of detecting vulnerabilities and reporting them prior to taking any remediation steps. Nevertheless, CPT incorporates flawlessly with latest software development practices like Agile and DevOps. This allows companies to resolve vulnerabilities before they are detected in the developmental procedure.
Enhanced Security Position
Continuous detection and mitigation of vulnerabilities allow companies to fortify their entire security defenses. Regular assessment and patching systems allow companies to reduce their attack surface and make it ambiguous for the attacker to penetrate their defenses.
Primary Identification of Responsibilities
Traditional pen testing identifies bugs after several weeks and months after they have been detected. In contrast to this, CPT permits companies to identify and resolve security issues in real time. It permits companies to reduce the opportunities for the attacker.
Implementing Continuous Penetration Testing
All cybersecurity strategies need careful planning and execution. Here are some steps to note during this procedure:
· Defining the scope (identification of assets and systems to assess)
· Tools and technologies (the types of vulnerabilities your tools can spot)
· Follow continuous testing procedure (adopt amalgamation of automated and manual testing tools)
· Create a skilled team (adopt workforce management tools)
· Collaborate with the correct stakeholders
Future Trends in Continuous Pen Testing
AI-Powered Tools Are Ruling
AI-powered tools can analyze huge amounts of data and adopt testing plans to detect emerging threats which is extremely useful for pen testing.
Adaptive Pen Testing Is Becoming Popular
This trend entails replicating actual attackers very realistically by understanding unique risks and threats.
Enhanced Use of PTaaS
It provides a wide variety of services including remediation guidance, vulnerability management, and remediation guidance.
Conclusion
The significance of pen testing services cannot be overlooked. Continuous pen testing is a very important keystone of attaining cyber resilience. Like all other aspects of actual cybersecurity, you require a continuous procedure that develops a sustainable business position via continuous adaptation and enhancement. Therefore, undeniably, CPT must be viewed as a strategic advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is meant by pen testing?
It is an authorized replicated attack done on a computer system to assess its security.
What are the 7 stages of pen testing?
· Pre-engagement
· Investigation
· Detection
· Susceptibility analysis
· Exploitation
· Reporting, and
· Remediation
Is pen testing an entry-level thing?
The majority of the pen testers begin at more cybersecurity and entry-level IT roles prior to advancing into pen testing.
Diginatives is a top-notch pen testing service provider that offers its services across the globe. If you want a similar service please contact us.
