Network Penetration Testing

Network penetration testing is an important part of any organization’s security program, but it goes beyond just keeping a network safe from intruders. Organizations can use the findings from network penetration testing to improve their entire security posture. By identifying and addressing any weaknesses in the security controls, they can make their networks more secure and less vulnerable to attacks.

Common Vulnerabilities Detected by Network Penetration Testing

Common Vulnerabilities Detected by Network Penetration Testing

1. Weaknesses in Security Controls: The most common vulnerabilities detected by network penetration tests are weaknesses in security controls. These include weak passwords and the lack of two-factor authentication. Attackers can also use open ports to find potential exploits (Tunggal, 2022).

2. Lack of Segmentation: Another common vulnerability is the lack of segmentation between networks. This can allow attackers to move laterally through a network and gain access to sensitive data. Network segmentation divides the network into distinct sub-networks to enhance security control delivery.

3. Unpatched Software: Outdated or unpatched software is yet another concern. It can provide attackers with a way to exploit known vulnerabilities and gain access to a network.

4. Insecure Configuration: Incorrectly configured devices and services are other vulnerabilities detected through pen testing. Improper configuration may allow attackers to bypass security controls and access sensitive data.

Types of Network Penetration Testing 

Penetration testing can be either internal or external. Internal penetration assesses an organization’s security posture and identifies security control shortcomings. External penetration testing examines the enterprise’s perimeter security and detects security control flaws.

There is another big difference between internal and external network penetration testing: internal network pen testing is performed by authorized personnel within an organization. In contrast, external network pen testing is done by authorized parties outside of the organization.

Perimeter network penetration testing aims to evaluate how effective perimeter security measures detect and deter attackers, as well as spot flaws in internet-facing assets like FTP servers. Perimeter devices and testing include.

  • Firewalls:   Assessing firewall security implementation.
  • Routers: Examining the security posture before traffic appearance on an untrusted network.
  • Switches:   Evaluating switch security.
  • IDS devices: Detecting unusual or suspicious activity in network traffic and alerting the administrator.
  • IPS devices:   Monitoring malicious activity on a network and taking action to stop it.