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What Is Penetration Testing?

Penetration testing, also known as a “pen test,” is a controlled, simulated cyberattack on your systems to test how secure they really are. It’s like hiring a professional hacker to break into your system—so you can fix the vulnerabilities before the bad guys do.

Just like you might lock your doors and windows to keep burglars out, penetration testing helps identify any weaknesses in your digital security that could allow cybercriminals to steal data or cause harm. These tests are designed to mimic real-life attacks, so you can see how your systems would stand up in a crisis.

How Penetration Testing Works:

Simulating an Attack – Experts, known as “ethical hackers,” try to break into your systems just like a real hacker would. They attempt to exploit weaknesses, like outdated software, weak passwords, or poorly configured security settings.
Identifying Vulnerabilities – The pen testers report any vulnerabilities (weak spots) they find, like open ports, unprotected data, or other security gaps that could be exploited.
Fixing the Issues – Once vulnerabilities are identified, your IT team can fix them before real attackers have the chance to exploit them. This might involve updating software, improving security settings, or training staff on safe practices.
Regular Testing – Because cyber threats are always evolving, penetration testing isn’t a one-time job. Regular tests ensure your systems remain secure as new vulnerabilities and attack methods emerge.

In short, penetration testing is a proactive way to spot weaknesses in your security before malicious hackers can take advantage of them. It’s essential for ensuring your business’s systems, data, and operations stay safe from cyber threats.

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