Overview : Network Penetration Testing
Network penetration testing is a crucial aspect of cybersecurity that involves evaluating a network’s security by simulating attacks from malicious outsiders and insiders. This process helps identify potential security weaknesses before they can be exploited by actual attackers, ensuring the network’s integrity, confidentiality, and availability. Here’s a general overview of the process:
Process of Network
Penetration Testing - Ciqur24
- Define Scope and Objectives:
Clearly outline the goals, scope, and boundaries of the test, including which systems and network segments will be tested. - Gather Information:
Collect preliminary information about the network through both passive and active reconnaissance methods. Passive methods include public information gathering, while active methods involve network scanning and probing.
1. Planning and Reconnaissance
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3
Gaining Access
Exploit Vulnerabilities:
Attempt to exploit the identified vulnerabilities to gain access to the network. This may involve: Brute Force Attacks:
Trying multiple combinations of usernames and passwords. Exploiting Software Flaws:
Using known exploits for software vulnerabilities. Social Engineering:
Manipulating individuals to divulge confidential information. -
4
Maintaining Access
Establish Persistence:
Once access is gained, try to maintain it to simulate a prolonged attack. Installing Backdoors:
Setting up hidden entry points for future access. Escalating Privileges:
Gaining higher-level access to perform more significant actions. Pivoting:
Using the compromised system to move laterally within the network. -
5
Penetration
Testing Analyze Findings:
Evaluate the impact and risk associated with each discovered vulnerability, considering factors like potential data loss, system disruption, and overall security posture. Detailed Reporting:
Compile a comprehensive report that includes:
a. Discovered Vulnerabilities:
b. Proof of Concept:
c. Risk Assessment:
- Implement Security Measures:
Address the identified vulnerabilities by applying patches, updating configurations, improving access controls, and enhancing security policies. - Verify Fixes:
Conduct re-testing to ensure that the vulnerabilities have been effectively mitigated and that no new issues have been introduced.
6. Remediation and Re-testing
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