How Secure Are Your Online Systems? Web Application Penetration Testing

With so many people using the internet for everything from banking to shopping, it is crucial that your web applications are secure. Web application penetration testing can help you ensure that your systems are safe and protected from hackers.

What Is Web Application Penetration Testing?

Penetration testing — or pen testing or ethical hacking — is a simulated attack on a computer system, web application, network, or other information technology infrastructure. Penetration testing aims to identify security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers.

Why Do You Need Penetration Testing?

There are many reasons why you might need penetration testing. For example, if you are developing a new web application, you will want to ensure that it is secure before it goes live. Penetration testing can also be used to assess the security of an existing system or to help troubleshoot issues with security controls.

Types of Penetration Testing

Each penetration test has its own focus and objectives. Some common types of tests include:

1. Wireless: Test for Vulnerabilities in Wireless Networks

Wireless pen testing involves assessing the security of wireless networks and devices. This type of test can help identify weaknesses in wifi passwords, encryption and authentication.

2. Social Engineering: Test for Vulnerabilities Exploited Through Social Interactions

This type of testing tries to exploit human vulnerabilities instead of technical ones.

One example would be phishing, in which an attacker sends out emails that look like they’re from a legitimate source in an attempt to get the recipient to click on a link or download an attachment that will install malware.

Another example is tailgating, where an attacker follows someone into a secure building or area without having to go through the proper authentication process.

Social engineering attacks are becoming more common and more sophisticated, so it’s important to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect yourself.

3. Physical: Test for Physical Security Vulnerabilities

Physical security vulnerabilities can include poor access control and weak locks. With physical penetration testing, there are assessments made to the security of a facility by looking for vulnerabilities in physical security controls. This type of test can help identify weaknesses in access control, such as poor locks, or lack of security cameras.

Penetration testing can help you identify security vulnerabilities in your web applications and take steps to protect your systems. If you are developing a new web application, you should consider penetration testing as part of your development process. And if you have an existing web application, it’s a good idea to periodically test your system to ensure that it is still secure.

4. Firewall: Test the Effectiveness Firewalls in Blocking Unauthorized Access

A firewall penetration test assesses the effectiveness of a firewall in blocking unauthorized access. This type of test can help identify weaknesses in the firewall configuration that could allow attackers to bypass the firewall and gain access to the protected network.

5. Network: Test for Vulnerabilities in Network Infrastructure and Devices

A network penetration test assesses the security of a network by looking for vulnerabilities in network infrastructure and devices. This type of test can help identify weaknesses in routers, switches and other network devices that could be exploited by attackers.

6. External vs. Internal: Stimulate Attacks From Outside and Inside the Organization

External tests are typically more difficult, because the attacker has less information about the target system. Internal tests are usually easier, because the attacker already has access to the network and can more easily gather information about the target system.

When deciding which type of test to conduct, you should consider the type of threats you are most likely to face. If you are concerned about attacks from outside the organization, then you should focus on external tests. If you are concerned about attacks from inside the organization, then you should focus on internal tests.

How to Initiate Penetration Testing

In most cases, penetration testing is initiated by an external company that specializes in this type of work. However, it is also possible to conduct this internally. If you are considering hiring a company to conduct a penetration test, be sure to ask about their qualifications and experience.

Select the Right Penetration Testing for Your Web Application

Penetration testing is a vital tool for ensuring the security of web applications. By simulating attacks, penetration testing can help identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers. There are many different types of tests, each with its own focus and objectives. When selecting a company to conduct penetration testing, be sure to ask about their qualifications and experience.

If you are concerned about the security of your web applications, consider conducting penetration tests on a regular basis. This will help ensure that your systems are secure and up to date.