Network Penetration Testing

often referred to as Network Pen Testing

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A proactive method of evaluating the security of an organisation's network infrastructure by simulating real-world cyberattacks.

This assessment is designed to identify vulnerabilities, weaknesses, and potential entry points that could be exploited by attackers to compromise network security. Network Pen Testing ensures that organisations have a robust defence in place to protect sensitive data and maintain the integrity of their IT infrastructure.

Key Components of Network Penetration Testing

  • Pre-Assessment Planning:
    1. Scope Definition: Define the boundaries of the pen test, including internal and external network components, routers, firewalls, servers, and connected devices.
    2. Target Identification: Identify key assets and critical areas of the network that require special attention, such as databases, web servers, and sensitive internal systems.
    3. Risk Profiling: Evaluate the organisation’s risk profile to align the testing with specific industry threats and compliance requirements.
  • Network Scanning:
    1. Automated Scans: Use advanced tools to scan the network for open ports, unpatched systems, default credentials, and other weaknesses.
    2. Service Enumeration: Identify active services running on network devices to determine possible entry points that attackers could exploit.
  • Vulnerability Identification:
    1. Manual Testing: Security experts manually examine identified vulnerabilities to assess their potential impact and confirm whether they pose a real threat.
    2. Exploitation Simulation: Simulate attacks on identified vulnerabilities to understand the extent of the risk and demonstrate the potential impact of a breach.
  • Post-Exploitation Analysis:
    1. Access Privilege Escalation: If a vulnerability is successfully exploited, testers attempt to escalate privileges to gain broader control over the network, similar to how a real-world attacker would behave.
    2. Lateral Movement Simulation: Testers attempt to move laterally across the network to assess how easily attackers could gain access to other systems and critical data.
  • Reporting and Analysis:
    1. Comprehensive Reports: Provide detailed reports of all vulnerabilities found, including the risk level of each and the potential business impact if exploited.
    2. Remediation Recommendations: Offer actionable recommendations to mitigate risks, including patch management, network reconfigurations, and updates to security policies.
  • Retesting and Validation:
    1. Remediation Support: Assist with the remediation of identified vulnerabilities and provide guidance on security best practices.
  • Post-remediation Retesting: Conduct retests to verify that all vulnerabilities have been addressed and that no new weaknesses have been introduced.

Types of Network Penetration Testing

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External Penetration Testing

Focuses on external-facing assets such as web servers, firewalls, and routers that can be accessed from outside the network. The goal is to identify vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit to breach the network from outside the organisation's perimeter.

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Internal Penetration Testing

Simulates an attack from within the organisation, assuming that an attacker has already gained access to the internal network. This test assesses how far an attacker could go once inside and whether sensitive data and systems are adequately protected from insider threats or compromised credentials.

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Wireless Network Penetration Testing

Tests the security of an organisation’s wireless networks by identifying vulnerabilities such as weak encryption protocols, default credentials, or unauthorised access points that could allow attackers to intercept or compromise network traffic.

Types of Network Penetration Testing

Network Pen Testing is essential for organisations that must comply with regulatory frameworks such as:

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PCI DSS

(Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard): For businesses that handle credit card transactions.

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HIPAA

(Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act): For healthcare organisations that handle patient data.

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ISO 27001

For organisations seeking or maintaining certification for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS).

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SOC 2

For service organisations that need to demonstrate their commitment to data security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy.

Project Timeline

The timeline for Network Pen Testing varies depending on the complexity and size of the network, but typical engagements last between two to three weeks. This includes scoping, testing, reporting, and post-remediation support.

Why Choose TotalCert Consulting Network Pen Testing ?

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Experienced Cybersecurity Experts

Our team of certified ethical hackers and cybersecurity professionals have extensive experience in identifying and mitigating network vulnerabilities.

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Tailored Testing Methodology

We customise each test to the specific environment and threat landscape of your organisation, ensuring relevant and actionable insights.

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Compliance Expertise

We ensure that your network security aligns with global standards and regulatory requirements, helping you achieve compliance and mitigate risk.

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Actionable Reports

Our reports provide in-depth analysis and practical remediation steps, ensuring that your network remains secure and compliant.

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