Many companies these days are looking to improve their cybersecurity by conducting regular penetration tests. However, they often only focus on their internal systems and forget about their external networks. In this blog post, we will explore how companies can benefit from external network penetration testing and the advantages it has over internal testing. We will also dispel some common myths about external testing so that you can make an informed decision about whether it is right for your company.
What is External Network Penetration Testing?
Network penetration testing is a type of security testing that is used to identify vulnerabilities in a network. It can be used to test both internal and external networks. External network penetration testing is conducted from outside the network, while internal network penetration testing is conducted from within the network.
External network penetration testing can be used to identify weaknesses in a company’s network that could be exploited by hackers. It can also help assess the effectiveness of a company’s firewall and other security measures. External network penetration testing is often conducted by ethical hackers, who are hired by companies to test their networks for vulnerabilities.
Internal network penetration testing is used to identify vulnerabilities in a company’s internal network. It can be used to test both servers and workstations. Internal network penetration testing is often conducted by employees of the company, who have access to the company’s internal networks.
Both external and internal network penetration testing are important tools that can help companies improve their security posture. Companies should consider conducting both types of tests on a regular basis to ensure that their networks are secure.
The Advantages Of External Network Penetration Testing
External network penetration testing can provide many benefits for companies, including improved security, increased visibility into the network, and reduced downtime.
Improved security is one of the most important advantages of external network penetration testing. By identifying vulnerabilities in the network, companies can take steps to fix them before they are exploited by attackers. This can help to prevent data breaches and other security incidents.
Increased visibility into the network can help companies to identify problems and potential threats more quickly. It can also help to improve incident response times.
Reduced downtime is another advantage of external network penetration testing. By identifying and fixing vulnerabilities before they are exploited, companies can avoid the need for extensive repairs or replacements. This can save time and money, and minimize disruptions to business operations.
How To Get Started With External Network Penetration Testing
There are a few key things that companies should keep in mind when considering external network penetration testing:
1. Define the goals and objectives of the test. What exactly do you hope to achieve by conducting this test? This will help determine the scope of the test and what needs to be included.
2. Choose a reputable provider. Make sure to do your research and select a provider that has experience conducting these types of tests.
3. Be prepared for the results. Be prepared to take action based on the findings of the test. Don’t wait until it’s too late to address vulnerabilities.
4. Have a plan in place for remediation. Once the test is complete, make sure you have a plan in place to address any vulnerabilities that were found.
Case studies
Today, companies are collecting and storing more data than ever before. This increase in data volume has led to an increase in the number of cyber attacks. In order to protect their data, companies must conduct regular penetration tests.
Penetration testing is a type of security test that is used to identify vulnerabilities in a system. A penetration test can be conducted externally or internally. External penetration tests are conducted by third-party organizations and are also known as black box tests. Internal penetration tests are conducted by employees of the company and are also known as white box tests.
Both types of penetration tests have their own advantages and disadvantages. External penetration tests are often considered more thorough because they are conducted by objective third-parties who do not have any prior knowledge of the company’s systems. However, external penetration tests can be expensive and time-consuming. Internal penetration tests are less expensive and can be completed more quickly, but they may not be as thorough as external tests.
The decision of whether to conduct an internal or external penetration test depends on the needs of the company. Both types of tests can be beneficial for companies, so it is important to consult with a security expert to determine which type of test would be best for your organization.
If you decide to conduct an external penetration test, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you will need to find a reputable third-party organization that specializes in this type of testing. Second,
How much does External Network Penetration Testing cost?
External network penetration testing can cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars depending on the size and scope of the project. The benefits of external network penetration testing, however, far outweigh the cost.
External network penetration testing can help identify network vulnerabilities in a company’s network that could be exploited by hackers. By identifying these vulnerabilities, companies can take steps to mitigate them before they are exploited. External network penetration testing can also help organizations assess their response plans and procedures in the event of a breach.
Overall, external network penetration testing is an essential part of any organization’s security posture. The benefits far outweigh the cost, making it a wise investment for any company looking to protect its data and its reputation.
Conclusion
Companies can benefit from external network penetration testing in a number of ways. By understanding the potential risks and vulnerabilities that exist outside their network, companies can take steps to mitigate these risks and protect their data and systems. In addition, by testing their networks regularly, companies can ensure that they are prepared for any potential threats that may arise.
