Discover how to safely test your system's security to reduce the risk of attackers targeting vulnerabilities.
Threats can spring up out of nowhere on any system if you're unprepared to deal with them. Whether it's a random virus or a hacker, there are a few tests you can perform to discover your system's weaknesses. In this article, we'll explore six different ways you can safely check for flaws in your system's security.
Why These Tests Are Important
Testing a system's security is essential. Commercial servers, websites, and professional hardware are at higher risk than personal systems. One of the most important uses of a regular check is to discover new vulnerabilities before an attacker does. Defining the level of risks on your network and system helps guide you in resolving those issues.
Through performing rigorous testing, you'll develop an in-depth inventory of devices on your system. Additionally, you'll discover potential risks for each of them and areas you need to upgrade. For businesses, having a secure network and server is essential. Insecure servers are at risk of losing information to malware and other issues.
Pentesting
A pentest, or penetration testing, involves manually assessing a network. The testing is done through the use of simulated attacks. These attacks help identify weak points in various areas by breaching those points.
Penetration testing is best used to discover a vulnerability in a safe environment. You can patch it from here to prevent attackers from exploiting the weakness. Regular testing through this method can help develop a firm and secure network invulnerable to most attacks.
The results you receive from ordering a penetration test will identify vulnerabilities and their individual risks. Reports done can vary, providing options such as a complete summary, the methods used to attack, the scope of work done, and more. Overall, the vulnerabilities found, and the report from the testing can be used to understand your network better and modify your existing security policies.
Are These Tests Actually Needed?
Penetration tests are needed more for networks which are already optimized for security. A system that isn't secure will see worse and more broad results from having one of these tests performed. The test is often used to help your system find ways to prevent, detect, and contain an attack before eradicating it.
DIY Security Assessment and Risk Analysis
A DIY security assessment and risk analysis is an easy option you should use before hiring professionals. However, there are better security flaw identification methods than this one. It can help deepen your understanding of your network and code. Many open-source projects for checking vulnerabilities and risks are available.
It's only recommended as an initial option or for anyone working with a limited budget. The larger your network and system, the more challenging it will be to DIY the assessment fully.
Automated Breach Simulation
An automated breach simulation is an option growing in popularity. However, it's often pricier because it needs a trial run before you receive a price from the service provider. The method differs from traditional testing options. Penetration testing and other tests performed by experts are routinely executed. This targeting system runs continuously. As such, it offers a few added benefits compared to manual alternatives.
There are free tools available that perform automated breaching simulations. While cheaper, they lack the accuracy of hiring expert analysts.
Attack Surface Analysis
Attack Surface Analysis, ASA for short, is a term that's become more robust in recent years. Initially, the process referred only to testing the interface for vulnerabilities, but now tests an organization's people and technologies.
The new form of ASA includes all information an attacker can discover and use. The analysis includes disgruntled employees' online posts and job notices for new hires in areas of confidential technology information. The research also looks at stolen credentials available on the dark web.
Vulnerability Scan
Vulnerability scans look for areas of issues which have already been published before. They crawl through the network and identify these issues. While fast and efficient, this method cannot find problems that haven't been published or recorded before. As such, they leave a network vulnerable to new exploits and attacks on areas of issue that haven't been identified.
The finished scan will provide a list of issues, where to find them, their risks, and solutions to these vulnerabilities.
Phishing Simulation
Phishing is one of the most likely causes of a breach in network security. More than 80% of breaches occur due to the human element. Running a simulation for it can help employees spot phishing emails and sites before they fall victim.
Many vendors provide continuous simulations. These simulations keep employees sharp and report the stats of how many click the links. These stats can help identify departments that are more prone to phishing. The process also trains employees to reduce the click-through rate.
Keeping Your System Secure
Keeping your system secure in this digital age is a must. This task is even more critical when your system is commercial. Systems that deal with a significant amount of daily inputs and store crucial information risk losing more to attacks. Before you start using these tests, optimize security as much as possible. Better optimization ensures higher accuracy and helps identify less noticeable issues.
