Why you should penetration test new software you use in your business
penetration testing, or pen testing, is a crucial practice for any business that utilizes software in its daily operations. It involves simulating cyber attacks on a system or network to identify vulnerabilities and determine the effectiveness of security controls. Pen testing is particularly important for new software, as it allows businesses to identify potential weaknesses and address them before a real cyber attack occurs.
Extra information about penetration testing
What is Penetration Testing?
Penetration testing is a simulated cyber attack that is carried out by ethical hackers to identify vulnerabilities in a system or network. The goal of a pen test is to identify any weaknesses that could be exploited by cybercriminals, and to determine the effectiveness of security controls that are in place.
The process involves a series of steps, including reconnaissance, vulnerability scanning, exploitation, and reporting. During the reconnaissance phase, the tester gathers information about the target system or network, such as the operating system, applications, and services that are running. This information is then used to identify potential vulnerabilities that can be exploited.
Why Penetration Testing is Important for New Software
New software is often vulnerable to cyber attacks because it has not been tested in a real-world environment. Even software that has undergone rigorous testing and development may still have undiscovered vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cybercriminals.
By conducting a pen test on new software, businesses can identify vulnerabilities and determine the effectiveness of security controls before the software is deployed. This allows businesses to address any weaknesses and improve security before a real cyber attack occurs.
Penetration Testing Can Save You Money
One of the biggest benefits of penetration testing is that it can save your business money in the long run. By identifying and addressing vulnerabilities before a cyber attack occurs, businesses can avoid the costs associated with a data breach, such as lost productivity, damage to reputation, and legal fees.
In addition, pen testing can help businesses avoid the costs associated with compliance violations. Many industries are subject to regulations that require them to implement certain security controls to protect sensitive data. By conducting regular pen tests, businesses can ensure that they are meeting these requirements and avoid costly fines and penalties.
Penetration Testing is an Ongoing Process
Penetration testing is not a one-time event. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and new vulnerabilities are discovered all the time. For this reason, businesses should conduct regular pen tests to ensure that their systems and networks are secure.
In addition, businesses should consider conducting pen tests after any major changes to their systems or networks, such as software updates or infrastructure changes. This will help to ensure that any new vulnerabilities that may have been introduced are identified and addressed.
Conclusion
Penetration testing is a critical practice for any business that utilizes software in its daily operations. It allows businesses to identify vulnerabilities and determine the effectiveness of security controls, particularly for new software. By conducting regular pen tests, businesses can improve their security posture, avoid costly data breaches and compliance violations, and ensure the ongoing protection of their systems and networks.