A penetration test is an in-depth security assessment of individual computers, networks, or IT infrastructures of any size. It involves testing all components and applications of a network or system from the perspective of a potential attacker. The goal is to identify vulnerabilities and provide clear, actionable recommendations to improve the overall security posture.
How Does a Penetration Test Work?
Our security professionals simulate attacks using hacker methods to:
• Identify technical vulnerabilities,
• Analyze misconfigurations,
• Evaluate and test protection mechanisms.
The scope and methods used are tailored to the type, size, and exposure of the system being tested.
A penetration test goes far beyond a vulnerability scan or security scan. While automated scans identify only a limited number of known vulnerabilities, a penetration test includes:
• Manual testing by experienced experts,
• The use of custom attack techniques,
• A deeper analysis of potential risks.
Our tests are based on established standards such as OSSTMM (Open Source Security Testing Methodology Manual) and OWASP (Open Web Application Security Project) to ensure structured, comprehensive, and effective assessments.
Steps in a Penetration Test at Zerberos
For thorough security assessments, we follow this proven process:
1. Defining Objectives
• Clarify the goals of the test: Which systems or data should be prioritized for protection?
2. Defining the Scope
• Determine the objects to be tested: Networks, applications, servers, or specific areas.
3. Information Gathering
• Collect information about the infrastructure, technologies in use, and publicly accessible data.
4. Vulnerability Assessment
• Identify and assess potential vulnerabilities using manual and automated techniques.
5. Documenting the Results
• Create a detailed report prioritizing risks and providing background information on the tests performed.
6. Reviewing the Results
• Analyze the findings with you and provide recommendations for security improvements.
Testing Methods: Blackbox, Graybox, Whitebox
We offer penetration tests under different testing scenarios:
• Blackbox Tests: No prior knowledge of your network – simulating an attack by an external and unknown adversary.
• Graybox Tests: Limited information, such as user credentials.
• Whitebox Tests: Comprehensive details about your infrastructure to enable a deep and targeted analysis.
Why Are Regular Penetration Tests Important?
Since server infrastructures and applications are constantly updated or adjusted, regular testing is crucial to detect security vulnerabilities early.
Recommended timings for penetration tests include:
• Periodically: At least once a year.
• After major updates: When new applications are deployed or infrastructure changes occur.
• After infrastructure changes: For instance, during cloud migrations or the implementation of new technologies.
The Report: Clear Results, Actionable Recommendations
The test report provides:
• A risk classification from “Good” to “High Risk” for each identified vulnerability.
• Background information on the tests conducted and their results.
• Actionable recommendations to address vulnerabilities effectively and improve your security posture.
Specific Areas of Focus
In addition to comprehensive security testing, we can focus on specific areas upon request, such as web applications, APIs, mobile apps, or specific network segments.
Why Choose Zerberos?
Zerberos provides penetration tests backed by over 25 years of experience in IT security. Our certified experts analyze your infrastructure with the highest level of detail and state-of-the-art techniques.
Contact us now for a no-obligation consultation! Together, we will create a security concept tailored to your exact requirements.