The benefits of automated penetration testing

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the importance of robust cybersecurity measures cannot be overstated. As cyber threats become more sophisticated, penetration testing has emerged as a critical component in identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities within an organization’s IT infrastructure. The findings from a penetration test provide insight into the most critical vulnerabilities in the IT infrastructure so we can act accordingly and mitigate them.

Automated solutions offer cybersecurity managers invaluable support and enable more frequent penetration testing. However, it is important to understand the benefits of automated penetration testing as well as pentester-led penetration testing to ensure a comprehensive security posture. Furthermore, even among automated solutions, it is important to understand the difference between an attack emulation solution like Pentera*, and traditional BAS tools.

The Benefits of Automated Penetration Testing

Automated penetration testing with Pentera involves using software to simulate cyberattacks on a network, identify potential vulnerabilities and try to exploit them to validate the level of security. Pentera stands out in this field as an agentless solution, providing real-environment testing that goes beyond the capabilities of traditional BAS (Breach and Attack Simulation) tools. Unlike BAS tools, which typically operate in controlled environments with agents installed, Pentera conducts tests within the real-life network, yielding more accurate and actionable insights while leaving your network intact. And most importantly, the results reflect the actual cybersecurity situation as seen through the eyes of a hacker.

Being pentesters ourselves, we sincerely believe that manual pentesting supported by pentesting tools is the ultimate recipe for the best results. However, we are also aware of the lack of qualified pentesters who could test all systems frequently enough to meet the needs, and such testing would not be financially sustainable. Therefore, we would like to point out three main benefits of automated penetration testing with Pentera:

Efficiency: Automated testing with Pentera allows for continuous monitoring and rapid identification of vulnerabilities, enabling organizations to address issues promptly.
Cost-Effectiveness: By automating the penetration testing process, Pentera reduces the need for extensive human resources and helps prevent potential costs resulting from cyber threats, which makes it a cost-effective solution for regular security assessments.
Consistency: Regular automated tests ensure that organizations maintain a consistent security posture, addressing new vulnerabilities as they emerge.

The Pentera Difference: Real-Environment Testing

Traditional BAS tools are often limited by their inability to replicate real-world conditions accurately. Pentera differentiates itself by conducting penetration tests in the operating environment, providing a more realistic assessment of an organization’s security landscape. This approach ensures that the identified vulnerabilities are not just theoretical and pose real risks that must be addressed.

BAS tools generally operate in simulated environments using dedicated agents, which may not account for the complexities and peculiarities of the actual network. This can result in an incomplete risk assessment and potentially overlooked vulnerabilities.

By testing within the network, Pentera provides a more accurate picture of the security posture, allowing organizations to effectively prioritize and address the most critical vulnerabilities. It also offers support with a comprehensive wiki with vulnerability descriptions and recommendations for remediation.

The Role of Human Creativity: Pentester-Led Penetration Testing

While automated solutions like Pentera offer numerous advantages, the role of human creativity in penetration testing cannot be understated. Pentester-led testing by skilled cybersecurity professionals brings ingenuity and out-of-the-box thinking that automated tools cannot replicate.

Complex Vulnerability Detection: Based on experience, supported by a team of co-workers, and sometimes even led by the sixth sense, human testers can identify sophisticated vulnerabilities that automated tools might miss.
Contextual Analysis: Pentesters can provide a deeper analysis of the vulnerabilities, understanding the broader context and potential impact on the organization.
Customized Exploitation Techniques: Skilled pentesters can develop customized exploitation techniques tailored to the unique characteristics of the target environment.

Finding the Balance: Automated vs. Pentester-Led Tests

To maximize cybersecurity, it is essential to strike a balance between automated and pentester-led penetration testing. Automated testing with Pentera offers the benefits of efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and frequent assessments, making it ideal for regular checks. On the other hand, annual pentester-led tests provide the depth and creativity needed to uncover more complex vulnerabilities and develop comprehensive mitigation strategies.

Incorporating both automated and human-driven testing into your cybersecurity strategy ensures a thorough and dynamic security posture. Regular automated tests help maintain baseline security, while periodic pentester-led tests provide the depth needed for a robust defence.

To achieve optimal cybersecurity, we recommend a hybrid approach:

Regular Automated Testing: Since the cybersecurity posture changes daily, utilize Pentera for frequent, automated penetration tests to monitor and address vulnerabilities continuously.
Annual Pentester-Led Tests: Invest in at least one pentester-led test annually to benefit from human creativity and in-depth analysis.
Cybersecurity Improvement Strategies: Post-testing, engage in detailed discussions with your pentesters to understand the most critical vulnerabilities and develop tailored improvement strategies. When applicable, engage your SOC to discuss possible weak points with pentesters.

How to proceed?

Automated penetration testing with Pentera offers significant efficiency, cost, and consistency advantages, making it an invaluable tool for maintaining cybersecurity. However, human creativity in penetration testing remains crucial for uncovering complex vulnerabilities and providing contextual insights. Organizations can ensure a comprehensive and dynamic security posture by adopting a balanced approach that leverages both automated and pentester-led testing.

We invite you to join us on June 3, 2024, for an exclusive event organized in collaboration with Pentera, who will conduct an in-depth presentation of the platform and showcase the new features available in Pentera. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your understanding of automated penetration testing and how it can benefit your organization and support you in reaching compliance with the upcoming regulations.

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*Pentera