The role of pentesting in an organization’s security strategy is crucial. It can be hard to know where to start, so we’ve compiled this list of the top 10 pentesting solutions in the US. If you are not sure about penetration testing and its importance then read this article for more information.
Pentesting basics:
What is pentesting?
The process of performing tests on a computer system or network for vulnerabilities by attempting to exploit them is called pentesting. Pentesters are security professionals who use their knowledge of hacking and tools to help organizations find and fix vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by criminals or other malicious actors.
There are three main types of pentests: black box, white box, and grey box.
Black box pentesting is when the tester has almost no information on the system or network he is attacking. White box pentesting is when the tester has full knowledge of the system or network, including passwords, user accounts, and vulnerabilities. Grey box pentesting falls somewhere in between black and white box testing, with varying levels of information about the target being shared with the tester.
Phases of pentesting:
The goal of a penetration test is to find vulnerabilities in a system or network that an attacker could exploit. Pentesters use a variety of methods, including scanning and enumeration, social engineering, and exploitation, to attempt to penetrate the target.
Phase I: reconnaissance – The pentester gathers as much information about the target as possible, including IP addresses, domain names, and user accounts.
Phase II: scanning and enumeration – The pentester uses tools like Nmap to scan for open ports and services on the target systems. He then tries to exploit any vulnerabilities he finds.
Phase III: exploitation – The pentester uses exploits to gain unauthorised access to the target system or network.
Phase IV: post-exploitation – The pentester tries to take control of the target systems and gather as much information as possible.
Finally, pentesters need to draft a concise report on their findings along with remediation steps.
Do you need penetration testing?
If you are not sure whether or not you need penetration testing, ask yourself the following questions:
– Do I have sensitive data that needs to be protected?
– Am I worried about someone breaking into my systems?
– Does my organization have a vulnerability disclosure policy?
How often should you perform penetration tests?
The frequency of pentesting will vary depending on the organization’s risk profile and security needs. However, most organizations should perform penetration tests at least once a year.
Cost of a penetration testing
The pentesting cost will be determined by a lot of factors such as the scope of the test, the size of the target environment, the provider and their experience level, etc. In the end, most tests range from $500 to $5000.
Now that you know a little bit more about pentesting, it’s time for the top ten solutions in the US.
Top 10 pentesting solutions in the US:
- Astra Security – This is a firm that specializes in penetration testing, security audits, blockchain/smart contract security, compliance testing, cloud testing, and other services. They can work remotely and provide support 24/7. Their product, the Astra Pentest tool, performs vulnerability assessment and penetration testing. It has a clean, simple and engaging dashboard that allows you to view real-time threat updates, risk ratings, and suggestions for each vulnerability. They use their automated tool as well as a team of specialists in the sector to conduct manual testing.
- Symantec Corporation – Symantec is a leading cybersecurity company that offers a wide range of pentesting services, including vulnerability assessment, penetration testing, and ethical hacking.
- FireEye, Inc. – FireEye is a provider of security products and services, including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and malware protection. To assist organisations to prevent and repair security flaws before they can be exploited, the firm also provides penetration testing services.
- Trustwave Holdings, Inc. – Trustwave is a provider of information security solutions, including malware protection, breach detection and response, and pentesting services.
- Cisco Systems, Inc. – Cisco is a leading provider of network infrastructure and cybersecurity solutions. It is expected that when it comes to securing network infrastructures, Cisco will have everything covered for you. They even have tools and software developed by them to work well with their technology.
- Kaspersky Lab – Kaspersky Lab is a global cybersecurity company. They are well known for their antivirus software but they also provide pentesting solutions and services to those who need them.
- Palo Alto Networks – Palo Alto Networks is a provider of enterprise security solutions, including firewalls, intrusion prevention systems (IPS), and antivirus software.
- Fortinet, Inc. – Fortinet is a provider of network security solutions, including firewalls, intrusion prevention systems (IPS), antivirus software, and pentesting services.
- BAE Systems – This is a global defence, aerospace, and security company that also provides pentesting services. Their area of expertise lies in the aerospace industry.
- Mitre Corporation – Mitre is a not-for-profit organization that operates research and development centres sponsored by the federal government. Relatively new but quickly gaining recognition for the great pentesting work they do.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pentesting is a vital part of an organization’s security posture and should be conducted regularly to identify vulnerabilities before they can be exploited. There are many great penetration testing providers in the US, so do your research and find the best one for your needs.
Leave a Reply