Difference Between Security Testing & Penetration Testing

august 6th 2024

WRITTEN BY  dEEPRAJ

Scope

Focused on in-depth exploration of specific vulnerabilities.

Ensure security by comprehensively assessing code, and compliance with standards.

1

PenTesting

Security Testing

Objectives

Actively tests system defenses by exploiting vulnerabilities to identify potential attack paths.

Seeks to find vulnerabilities for potential exploitation.

2

Pen Testing

Security Testing

Methodologies

Combines automated scans with manual exploits to uncover vulnerabilities and test system resilience.

Automates vulnerability and misconfiguration scans.

3

Pen Testing

Security Testing

Analysis

Exploits vulnerabilities to understand potential attack impact and gain unauthorized access.

Offers a prioritized vulnerability list without exploiting them.

4

Pen Testing

Security Testing

Output

Penetration testing reports vulnerabilities, attack paths, impact, and security recommendations.

Vulnerability report lists weaknesses with severity and fix advice.

5

Pen Testing

Security Testing

Approach

Simulates real-world attacks to test system resilience and response capabilities.

Proactively hunts and fixes system weaknesses to prevent attacks

6

Penetration Testing

Security Testing

Primary Process

Simulates real-world attacks on systems, apps, and networks to find vulnerabilities

Comprehensive security evaluation across networks, apps, and systems.

7

Pen Testing

Security Testing

Reporting Emphasis

Documents vulnerabilities, attack paths, and defense recommendations.

Detailed reports on vulnerabilities, compliance, and security improvements.

8

Pen Testing

Security Testing

Legal & Ethical Implication

Requires careful balancing to ensure simulated attacks are legal and ethical.

Complies with legal  and data integrity during testing.

9

Pen Testing

Security Testing

Overall Focus

Identifies and mitigates specific risks to prevent targeted attacks or data breaches.

Seeks comprehensive enterprise security,  and risk mitigation.

10

Penetration Testing

Security Testing

Learn how penetration testing differs from security testing with our comprehensive business guide to enhance your organization's security posture.