Penetration testing, also known as pen testing or ethical hacking, is the process of testing a computer system, network, or web application to find vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers.

Penetration tests can be used to test both the external and internal security of a system. External tests are conducted from the perspective of an attacker who is outside the organization, while internal tests are conducted from the perspective of an attacker who already has access to the organization’s network.

Penetration tests are an important part of any security program, as they can help identify weaknesses that could be exploited by attackers. However, it is important to note that penetration tests are not a panacea, and they should not be the only security measure in place.

The six stages of penetration testing are as follows:

1. Reconnaissance

2. Scanning

3. Gaining Access

4. Maintaining Access

5. Covering Tracks

6. Reporting

Let’s look into each of these steps:

1. Reconnaissance

Reconnaissance is the first stage of penetration testing, and it involves gathering information about the target system. This information can be gathered through public sources, such as the target’s website, or through more covert means, such as social engineering.

The goal of reconnaissance is to gather as much information about the target as possible, so that the attacker can better plan their attack.

2. Scanning

Scanning is the second stage of penetration testing, and it involves using automated tools to scan the target system for vulnerabilities. This stage can be divided into two sub-stages: network scanning and host scanning.

Network scanning is the process of scanning a network for open ports and services. This information can be used to identify potential attack vectors.

Host scanning is the process of scanning a host for vulnerabilities. This information can be used to identify potential weaknesses that can be exploited.

3. Gaining Access

Gaining access is the third stage of penetration testing, and it involves exploiting vulnerabilities to gain access to the target system. This stage can be divided into two sub-stages: gaining initial access and escalating privileges.

Gaining initial access is the process of exploiting a vulnerability to gain access to the target system. This access can be used to further exploit the system or to gain information about the system.

Escalating privileges is the process of exploiting a vulnerability to gain access to resources that are normally restricted. This can be used to gain access to sensitive data or to gain a foothold on the system.

4. Maintaining Access

Maintaining access is the fourth stage of penetration testing, and it involves maintaining access to the target system after initial access has been gained. This stage can be divided into two sub-stages: maintaining access and pivoting.

Maintaining access is the process of keeping access to the target system after initial access has been gained. This can be done by creating backdoors, using privilege escalation techniques, or by using social engineering.

Pivoting is the process of using an initial access point to gain access to other systems on the network. This can be done by exploiting vulnerabilities, by using port forwarding, or by using tunneling.

5. Covering Tracks

Covering tracks is the fifth stage of penetration testing, and it involves hiding the attacker’s tracks to avoid detection. This stage can be divided into two sub-stages: hiding tracks and cleaning up.

Hiding tracks is the process of hiding the attacker’s tracks on the target system. This can be done by deleting log files, modifying system files, or using encryption.

Cleaning up is the process of removing all traces of the attacker’s presence on the target system. This can be done by deleting files, uninstalling programs, or reformatting the system.

6. Reporting

Reporting is the final stage of penetration testing, and it involves creating a report of the findings. This report should include all information gathered during the test, as well as recommendations for remediation.

Conclusion

Penetration testing is a critical part of any security program. It can help identify weaknesses that could be exploited by attackers. However, it is important to note that penetration testing is not a panacea, and it should not be the only security measure in place.