Penetration test vendor

Your vendor should be guarding against intrusion into the systems network from the outside and conducting regular penetration testing through a qualified credible resource. Once the threats and vulnerabilities have been evaluated, the penetration testing should address the risks identified throughout the environment. The only questions then are on the frequency, and of course, the resolution of issues identified by this testing. Unfortunately, in depth answers to those questions fall outside the scope of this article. Will they make sure that you are able to define the problem and sketch your goals before jumping to their keyboards and sending you an invoice? It is key to cut through the sales layer and try to reach the technical director or pentest practice leader. What is the hiring process?

Automated tools do not detect all vulnerabilities and are prone to false positives. Identify and Eliminates False Positives A false positive is when the penetration testing team tells you there is a vulnerability or a problem when there really isn't one. When you stick to the same pen testing vendors future exercises tend to become a replica of those from the past and unless the scope changes significantly, not much value is usually added long-term. Analysis of a vendors technology achievements, reputation, resource pools, trustworthiness, and dependability are usual elements within the process. Can the penetration testing team stop the fire or "turn it off"? That would probably cause more friction as two significantly different approaches would be involved, with different levels of access or different assessment timeframes which would, in addition, stress the internal processes and resources. Routine communications during the penetration test should include when penetration testing begins and ends, what is being tested, whether any critical findings were discovered, any problems, etc.

When it comes to your environment, and your networks, you want to make sure you hire quality, capable professionals. Look for a firm staffed by technicians with a minimum of five years direct experience in the specialty relevant to your assessment. Ask your potential vendor how their penetration testing methodology is different than a vulnerability assessment. The secret to being a great spy agency in the 21st century: When is the last time you tested your cybersecurity defenses?