What is a penetration test?

A penetration test is an authorized simulated attack designed to evaluate the security of a system. This process involves a thorough assessment where security professionals attempt to exploit vulnerabilities in a network, application, or system in the same way malicious attackers might. The primary goal is to identify weaknesses before they can be exploited by real attackers, thereby enhancing the organization's overall cybersecurity posture.

The significance of obtaining authorization before conducting these tests cannot be overstated, as it ensures that the testing is legal and ethically conducted, reducing the risk of potential legal repercussions or damage to systems during the testing phase. Through effective penetration testing, organizations can better understand their security vulnerabilities and take informed measures to strengthen their defenses.