Penetration Testing

Penetration Testing is a systematic process of probing for vulnerabilities in networks, systems, and applications by simulating attacks that a malicious actor might use.

Testing Methodology

1. Planning and Scoping - Defining objectives and boundaries
2. Reconnaissance - Information gathering about targets
3. Scanning and Enumeration - Identifying systems and services
4. Vulnerability Analysis - Identifying potential weaknesses
5. Exploitation - Attempting to compromise systems
6. Post-Exploitation - Assessing impact and lateral movement
7. Reporting - Documenting findings and recommendations

Testing Types

• Black Box - No prior knowledge of the target
• White Box - Full knowledge including source code
• Gray Box - Partial knowledge, simulating insider threat
• External - Testing from outside the network
• Internal - Testing from within the network

Common Tools

• Reconnaissance: Nmap, Recon-ng, Shodan
• Web Testing: Burp Suite, OWASP ZAP
• Exploitation: Metasploit, Cobalt Strike
• Password Attacks: Hashcat, John the Ripper
• Reporting: Dradis, PlexTrac

Standards and Frameworks

• PTES (Penetration Testing Execution Standard)
• OWASP Testing Guide
• NIST SP 800-115
• CREST methodology