What happens after a penetration test is complete?
A penetration test or pentest is a simulated cyberattack on your networks, systems, or applications. It is carried out by a Cyber Security professional and aims to identify any vulnerabilities before malicious actors can exploit them.
Penetration testing is a key tool for organisations wanting to protect digital assets and sensitive information. After penetration testing has been completed there are a number of other tasks that will need to be completed.
The penetration test report
The testing team will provide a detailed penetration test report after testing has been completed. This will include any vulnerabilities that have been identified, the level of risk they pose, and steps that should be taken to remediate the threat.
The report may also include the methods that were used to exploit vulnerabilities and explain how they could be used to compromise the system.
The report should be reviewed, ensuring that stakeholders understand both the risk and business implications of what was discovered. For instance, a vulnerability identified on a customer-facing application could lead to severe reputational damage if it is exploited.
Analysis will typically be a collaborative exercise between the testing team and stakeholders.
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Prioritising vulnerabilities
The next step is to prioritise the identified vulnerabilities for remediation. The most critical vulnerabilities with the biggest potential to cause significant damage should be addressed first. Businesses should consider the report’s risk assessments, as well as factors such as data sensitivity and compliance requirements. Threat levels and the likelihood of a vulnerability being exploited should also be considered.
High-risk vulnerabilities should receive immediate attention, with lower-risk issues addressed over time. While vulnerabilities exist, even low-priority threats, the potential for exploitation will remain. A vulnerability management plan can help organisations prioritise remediation, as well as any changes that will be necessary to prevent future issues emerging. In some cases, user access may need to be revoked, new software deployed, or stronger encryption measures applied.
Implementing remediation measures
Once vulnerabilities have been identified and prioritised the remediation process can begin. This will typically include a range of tasks, such as updating firewalls, patching software, and modifying system configurations. The fixes may then need to be tested to ensure that no new issues have been introduced, or that critical business operations are not disrupted.
Collaborating with third-party vendors might be necessary for some organisations to ensure that systems are fully patched and secured.
Comprehensive penetration testing from Equilibrium Security
At Equilibrium Security, our team of highly experienced Cyber Security professionals can conduct thorough penetration testing to provide comprehensive insight into your overall security posture.
Our range of penetration testing services allows you to assess your infrastructure security and make any necessary adjustments to protect your organisation from criminals.
With a proven track record of protecting, blue-chip, public sector and SME brands for over a decade, Equilibrium Security can be relied upon to support your Cyber Security and protect your digital assets.
- Identify unknown zero-day attack vulnerabilities
- Prioritise vulnerabilities and understand their risk.
- Enhance ability to handle security incidents effectively
- Valuable recommendations for enhancing security