Network VAPT: The Ultimate Guide to Benefits and Process

Network VAPT is a security evaluation process where experts test user networks to find vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit. The main goal of network VAPT (vulnerability assessment and penetration testing) is to find security flaws in networks, systems, hosts, and network devices that hackers can use for unauthorized access and data breaches.

As per research by GlobeNewswire, cybercrime costs will reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025. Around 43% of these cyberattacks happen on the organization’s network. With roughly 2,200 attacks every day, it is inevitable to secure the main component of the IT infrastructure – the network.

Therefore, in this blog, we are going to discuss how network VAPT is the best solution to prevent attacks on the network and its components. Additionally, we will offer tips to help you choose the best network VAPT provider.

What is Network VAPT?

Network VAPT is conducted to identify exploitable vulnerabilities in networks and systems to help reduce or mitigate security risks. Network components like firewalls and access points are thoroughly tested to reduce the potential attack surface and prevent unauthorized access.

Once the base layer of the network is protected and proper security measures are implemented, the risk of the top layers is also automatically reduced. Since every digital asset (applications and APIs) is connected to the network, a breach in its infrastructure can make everything vulnerable.

Network penetration testing involves using specialized tools and techniques to discover security vulnerabilities in the network that can lead to cyberattacks. After identifying all vulnerabilities, the testing team then recommends possible solutions. As a result, organizations can quickly address them and secure their network perimeter.

Benefits of Network VAPT in Cyber Security

VAPT Network provides enough details on security issues for developers or security officers to address them before they cause big problems. However, this is not the only benefit. Here are a few reasons why VAPT in cyber security is important for businesses:

1. Identify Network Configuration Issues

By conducting network VAPT, you can detect misconfigurations in the network architecture that could be exploited by attackers. For example, incorrect firewall measures might allow unauthorized access, or sometimes default network settings might leave it open for attacks. VAPT in networking helps identify such issues and helps strengthen the overall network security posture.

2. Detect Unauthorized Devices

VAPT scans the entire network and identifies any unauthorized devices connected. This prevents malicious devices from accessing sensitive data. For example, attackers might connect an unauthorized device to the network port, which will give them access to the internal systems.

3. Check Firewall Protocols

The job of a firewall is to block unauthorized access and allow legitimate traffic. Network VAPT tests the firewall’s configuration and optimizes its performance and security. VAPT includes simulating various attacks on the firewall to check if it can block them.

4. Identify Vulnerable Network Services

VAPT pinpoints vulnerable services running on network devices. As a result, it helps organizations to update or disable these services to enhance network security. This is because an outdated version of a network service might have known vulnerabilities that attackers can take advantage of.

5. Strengthen Remote Access Security

With the rise of remote working conditions after the pandemic, it is more essential now to test network security. VAPT also tests the security of VPNs and other remote access solutions to secure remote access. It identifies weaknesses in VPN configurations or outdated encryption protocols to ensure remote connections cannot be easily intercepted by attackers.

6. Protection Against DoS Attacks

A Denial of Service (DoS) attack is when the attacker disrupts the business by flooding the network of an organization with traffic. Network VAPT in cyber security helps identify those vulnerabilities that could be exploited for DoS attacks. These vulnerabilities may include inadequate bandwidth or unoptimized network configurations.

7. Ensure Compliance

Many industries make it mandatory for organizations to test the security of the networks that store sensitive user data, such as PCI DSS, HIPAA, ISO 27001, etc. Non-compliance with these rules would result in fines and legal problems. Network VAPT helps companies comply with these regulations by thoroughly testing the network and its components.

8. Enhance Network Monitoring

The VAPT report can be used to improve network monitoring and logging. Better monitoring helps in detecting and responding to security incidents early. By identifying gaps in the current monitoring measures, VAPT recommends implementing more comprehensive monitoring solutions. As a result, this ensures any unusual or suspicious activities are effectively detected and addressed.

9. Build Customer trust

A secure network builds trust among the users/customers. When the users feel confident that their data is safe, it enhances their loyalty. VAPT finds those security flaws that may lead to data breaches. By showing the world you prioritize customer data safety, you are not only securing your business but attracting more customers.

What are the Steps Involved in VAPT Network

VAPT mostly has 3 phases – pre-assessment, assessment, and post-assessment. Here is the brief network VAPT process:

1. Information Gathering

The 1^st step involves the testing team collecting relevant information about the target systems, such as domain names, network architecture, IP addresses, and technologies in use. This information helps them understand the potential attack surface and entry points.

2. Planning/Scoping

The next step involves defining the goals and identifying the scope of the test. Here the testing team outlines which tools and techniques will be used and which vulnerabilities they are going to target. This gives a brief idea to the client of what to expect from the test.

3. Automated Vulnerability Scanning

This step includes using automated tools to scan and analyze the target network and systems for known vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit. For example, weak configurations, outdated software, and other common vulnerabilities.

4. Manual Penetration Testing

In the 4^th step, expert pen testers or “ethical hackers” perform manual penetration testing. They use manual techniques to detect vulnerabilities missed by the tools and exploit the found vulnerabilities. The goal is to simulate real cyberattacks to understand the resilience of existing security measures and the potential impact of successful exploits.

5. Reporting

After the test is completed, a detailed report is created and shared with the development team that provides a comprehensive overview of the test. It includes the vulnerabilities identified, the potential impact they have, and recommended remediation measures. Additionally, the report includes the technical findings, risk ratings, and actionable solutions to enhance the security posture.

6. Remediation

The development team uses the recommended solutions to fix the vulnerabilities in their network security. if the client needs it, the team usually helps locate the vulnerabilities they found over consultation calls. Both the testing and development teams collaborate to make the network secure.

7. Retesting

After all the necessary fixes and patches are done, the testing team retests the system to check if everything is well and good. Additionally, retesting also ensures there are no vulnerabilities left that could grant unauthorized access to attackers. Then a final report is generated, which contains the entire summary of the VAPT process.

8. LoA/Security Certificate

At last, the testing team provides the client with a letter of attestation (LoA) that is proof that the organization has successfully conducted VAPT for their network systems. This security certificate is then shared with the stakeholders to gain their trust. It is also used to comply with the mandatory industry regulations.

Ever wished to see a real VAPT report? Click the link below and download a network VAPT report that belongs to one of our existing clients (the identity remains hidden for security purposes).