Penetration Testing

What is Penetration Testing?

Penetration testing (pen testing) involves skilled security professionals attempting to breach an organization's defenses using the same techniques as real attackers. Unlike automated vulnerability scanning, pen testing includes manual exploitation, chaining vulnerabilities, social engineering, and creative attack paths. Types include external testing (targeting internet-facing assets), internal testing (simulating an insider threat), and web application testing. Pen tests validate that vulnerabilities are exploitable and assess real-world risk.