External Network Penetration Testing (also known as External Pen Testing) is a type of security assessment that is designed to simulate an attack on an organization’s external network infrastructure. The goal of external pen testing is to identify vulnerabilities in an organization’s external network that could be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access to the organization’s systems and data.
The methodology for an external network pen test typically includes the following steps:
It is important to note that external pen testing shall be done with the consent of the organization and a non-disclosure agreement shall be signed to protect the organization’s information. Additionally, the assessment shall be conducted by experienced security professionals with knowledge and expertise in external network pen testing.
The deliverables and benefits of External Network Penetration Testing are similar to the ones of the DoS and DDoS assessment services, including: improved network security, protection against cyber-attacks, risk management, cost savings, improved business continuity. But the main difference is that external pen testing is focused on external network infrastructure vulnerabilities and identifying the potential access points for external attackers.