Automated vs Manual Penetration Testing

In the present cybersecurity landscape, it measures the demand for security testing vis-a-vis software security. Manual security testing is the most commonly used methodology. Automated testing is another alternative, though not as favored as manual testing. This blog is for those confused Automated vs Manual Pentesting as to which one to choose. We have not made a case for one technique over another, but rather shown how both work and how such works can be given new dimensions in developing better security.  What is exactly a Security Test?   Security testing is an important aspect of quality assurance in the life cycle of software. It is meant to ensure that the product is safe from types of threats such as hacking, viruses, malicious attacks from the outside that may destroy the application’s integrity, loss, destruction of data, or even harm users.  Security testing is a wide term covering many areas of test case creation; penetration testing is the most widely used type of security testing. Penetration testing simulates real attack by an attacker, a hacker attempting to find and report software vulnerabilities.  Security tests ensure that an application has protection against attacks and they play a very significant role in ridding systems from potential calamities. This test happens when the applications detect loopholes or weaknesses with respect to the application. This activity involves rigorous understanding of potential threats and how they can be negated, hence proving to be a tough job.  Security Testing and its types  In the security testing which involved inside penetration testing, it’s a complete test where a “system” tried to get into. It opened up to vulnerabilities which are exploitable by outsiders even your employees. This process could have both manual and automatic methods, all dependent on weightage. Let’s get into it on both levels.  1. The Manual Security Testing  Manual security testing refers to all kinds of testing done by human beings. It is sometimes also called manual penetration testing, manual code review, and black-box testing.  Manual Security Testing has reason and examination from a human point of view to find out the security of a service, a product, or a system: and that does require a tester possessing the knowledge and experience to see conspicuous security vulnerabilities within a system and then performing a series of steps that would exploit the vulnerability to determine if the hackers would be able to exploit it in real-time and on a live system; it will also determine whether this vulnerability is indeed real and needs reporting to the correct personnel within the organization.  Advantages  Disadvantages  2. Automated Security Testing  Automated security testing is the procedure of conducting tests on applications for potential security misconfigurations or vulnerabilities. Automated scanning tools are then used to find potential security problems and other vulnerabilities in different applications.   Standalone, Comparator or aggregated Security Testing, companies can carry out automated security testing. Conducting automated security testing as an element of a larger security testing program is more beneficial since automated security tests go on with other manual testing efforts.  Advantages:  Disadvantages:  Automated Security Testing Versus Manual Security Testing:  Both types of security testing have proven advantages and have been used widely in the industry. Let’s break down some basic differences between the two.  Manual Testing:  Automated Security Testing:  Things that influence choosing a penetration testing service provider  While it should really be considered that costs incurred by performing manual or automated penetration tests are varying according to important factors that determine the costs, then, consider these factors as some of the important ones:  The complexity of the System or Network  The complexity is the most important adjective in determining the costs for which a system or network is associated with a test. The testing may of such highly complex environments with multiple layers, interconnected systems, and rather intricate configurations would require much more time and effort, hence resulting in higher pricing.  Scope of Testing  The cost associated with the penetration testing project is quite important influenced by the scope of the project being tested. Naturally, a broader scope making in a much larger number of systems, applications, or network segments would require increased resources and time thus accumulating higher costs.  Testing Methodology  Some methodologies adopted for the tests carried out by penetration testers can have an influence on costs. Different methodologies may require differing levels of effort, expertise and time; for instance, one with a comprehensive, thorough methodology, including extensive manual testing, will take longer and therefore be costlier.  Expertise and Experience  The qualifications, expertise and experience of penetration testers affect the cost too. The more skilled and experienced testers having specific knowledge and certifications charge higher rates. Their proficiency can ensure testing is more accurate and effective and hence reduce the risk of missing critical vulnerabilities.  Reporting and Documentation  Cost is generally influenced by levels of reporting and documentation required. Expensive may be requirements on detailed reports with in-depth analysis, recommendations and remediation steps.  Tech and Tools  Penetration testing can obviously involve the licensing or procurement of tools and technologies that need to be factored in. Some tools may be relatively expensive up-front, while others will be available for subscription purchase. The evaluation of these test instruments should involve consideration of features, capabilities, and support provided by the tools so that their worth against individual test needs can be determined.  Post-Testing Support and Activities  Any future activities or additional support should also be kept in mind. That might include clarifications, re-testing, or even help with finding a way to reduce the damage caused by the problem. Such services will usually come at a cost, so it is important to discuss and ascertain how much it will cost to have such support.  A continual recommendation is, however, having consultations with reputable companies or consultants on behalf of cybersecurity law firms in getting accurate and personalized pricing. When they assess the requirements needed from you, understand the environment you’re operating under, and then give clear pricing details to suit the requirements and budget of