Penetration Testsing

identifying/discover vulnerabilities in a system and fix them before they can be exploited by attackers. It follows an organized approach, including steps like scoping, reconnaissance, discovery, exploitation, and reporting.

The penetration testing process involves five key phases:

• Scoping: Defining the scope of the test (e.g., specific systems, environments) and establishing rules of engagement (e.g., testing times, procedures).

• Reconnaissance: Passively gathering information about the target (e.g., internet research, job postings, company technologies).

• Discovery: Actively probing the system using tools to identify vulnerabilities (e.g., open ports, services, vulnerability scans).

• Exploitation: Attempting to exploit detected vulnerabilities to penetrate the system, potentially chaining multiple weaknesses.

• Reporting: Documenting findings, attack steps, and remediation recommendations for the organization.

Penetration tests are classified based on the tester’s knowledge of the environment:

• Black-box testing: Simulates a real-world attack where the tester has no prior knowledge of the system.

• White-box testing: The tester has full knowledge of the environment (e.g., host lists, source code), allowing deeper analysis.

• Gray-box testing: A hybrid approach where partial internal information is provided, balancing realism and thoroughness.

Common targets include:

• Network Pen-Testing: Testing hosts, web applications, and even employees for vulnerabilities (e.g., open ports, social engineering).

• Application Pen-Testing: Focused on software, using static analysis (code review) or dynamic analysis (testing running applications).

• Hardware Pen-Testing: testing firmware, APIs, and debug ports (e.g., UART/JTAG) to manipulate devices.

• Physical Pen-Testing: Testing physical security (e.g., bypassing locks, alarms).

• Social Engineering: Simulating attacks like phishing or impersonation to exploit human vulnerabilities.

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