According to the various standards and methodologies that are used during a penetration test, the results vary for any organization who wants to secure their IT infrastructure and fix the existing vulnerabilities. At the same time, they are also looking for the latest, most relevant, and the most popular penetration tools and methodologies to fight the different kinds of cyberattacks.
Hence are security experts decided to introduce and explain some of the most popular Penetration Testing methodologies and standards –
Open Source Security Testing Methodology Manual – OSSTMM
The open-source security testing methodology manual is a recognized framework that details industry standards while providing a scientific methodology for network penetration testing and vulnerability assessment. To identify security vulnerabilities present in the network it can be used as a comprehensive guide by the network development team and penetration testers.
This particular methodology enables pen testers to perform customized testing that answers to the specific needs of an organization. With the help of a customized network assessment of the network’s security along with reliable solutions, the IT and security team can take appropriate decisions towards securing their IT and network infrastructure.
The Open Web Application Security Project – OWASP
Another recognized standard that helps organizations to control application vulnerabilities is the Open Web Application Security Project. This project specifically helps to discover vulnerabilities in mobile and web applications. It also complicates logical flaws that arise during unsafe development practices.
The recent and updated guide of OWASP provides over 66 controls to recognize and assess vulnerabilities with different functionalities found in various current era applications. It also arms the organizations with resources to secure their applications and secure potential business losses. The penetration tester can ensure no vulnerabilities are active by leveraging the OSWASP standard in the security assessment. It also aids the recommendations towards being more realistic for specific features and technologies in the applications.
National Institute of Standards and Technology – NIST
A security manual from the National Institute of Standard and Technology is very different from the other security manuals. It offers very specific guidelines that are elemental to penetration testing to improve the overall cybersecurity of the organization. This particular framework guarantees information security in industries like energy, banking, and communications. There is a probability of customizing standards to meet their specific needs.
Organizations should conduct penetration testing on their applications and networks in order to comply with the NIST standards. However, organizations need to follow the pre-established guidelines ensuring the organization fulfills its cybersecurity obligations and mitigates risks of possible cyberattacks.
Penetration Testing Methodology and Standards – PTES
A structured approach to penetration testing is highly recommended by the Penetration Testing Methodology and Standards. At one side, the PTES guides the tester through the phases of penetration testing that would begin with communication, information gathering, and threat modeling. On the other hand, the pen testers acquaint’s himself with the processes of the organizations that would help him identify the most vulnerable areas that are prone to cyber-attacks.
It provides guidelines for testers for post-exploiting testing which can help them validate the successful fixing of the previously identified vulnerabilities. The standard guarantees successful penetration testing with seven different phases and recommendations to bank on.
Information System Security Assessment and Framework – ISSAF
This also gives a very structured approach to penetration testing and more importantly the framework provides advanced methodologies that are personalized to the context. With these standards, testers can plan every step of the penetration testing process and hence it caters to every requirement of the penetration testing process.
ISSAF gives detailed information on the various attack vectors as well as the vulnerability outcome after exploitation. While securing systems this information allows testers to plan advanced attacks that would also guarantee a return on investment.
While threats continue to evolve, businesses and organizations should continue to improvise with their testing approach by primarily being aware of the latest technologies and possible attack possibilities.
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