Manual vs. automated penetration testing: 7 key differences and their impact on your business
Ein wichtiger Teil der Cybersicherheitsstrategie eines Unternehmens ist der Penetrationstest, oft auch als Pentest bezeichnet. Diese Tests sind in erster Linie darauf ausgerichtet, Schwachstellen in der IT-Infrastruktur aufzudecken, bevor sie von Angreifern ausgenutzt werden können. Dabei gibt es verschiedene Ansätze: Manuelle und automatisierte Penetrationstests. Beide haben ihre spezifischen Vorteile und Einsatzbereiche, die wir in diesem Artikel ausführlich beleuchten werden.
1. complexity of the application
Automated penetration tests are particularly effective when it comes to testing standard applications or systems with known vulnerabilities. Tools such as OWASP ZAP or Nessus can quickly identify thousands of known vulnerabilities. In contrast, manual penetration tests are better suited to testing complex, customised applications. A human tester can understand the logic and behaviour of the application and identify specific vulnerabilities that an automated tool might miss.
2. In-depth analysis
While automated tools offer a broad but rather superficial analysis, human testers can carry out an in-depth analysis. They can focus on specific aspects and analyse them in detail. This allows them to find hidden or complex vulnerabilities that may not be on the list of known vulnerabilities.
3. speed vs. accuracy
Automated penetration tests can process a large amount of data within a few minutes or hours. This makes them ideal for situations where time is a critical factor. Manual tests, on the other hand, are more time-consuming but generally more accurate. They can minimise false positives and false negatives, which are more common with automated tests.
4. Cost factor
Automated tests are generally more cost-effective than manual tests. However, the costs for automated tools can increase if additional functions or capacities are required. Manual tests require specialised professionals, which makes them more expensive, but they can provide greater value by delivering in-depth insights that an automated tool cannot provide.
5. continuous tests
Automated tools can be used continuously and at regular intervals to monitor the security of the systems. Manual tests, on the other hand, tend to be selective measures that are carried out in certain phases of the development process or in response to specific events.
6. Whitebox, Greybox and Blackbox Tests
In whitebox testing, the tester has full access to all system information, including source code and architecture. With black box testing, on the other hand, the tester has no prior knowledge of the system, similar to a real attacker. Greybox tests are in between, where the tester only has limited information about the system.
Manual penetration tests are particularly effective for whitebox and greybox tests, as they require in-depth knowledge of the system. Automated tools, on the other hand, are more effective for black box tests, as they can process large amounts of data quickly and identify known vulnerabilities.
7. Adaptability
Manual penetration testers can adapt their strategies and tactics during the test based on the results they receive during the process. In contrast, automated tools follow set rules and algorithms and are less flexible in adapting to unexpected results or new threats.
Conclusion
There is no “best” approach to penetration testing – it always depends on the specific requirements and circumstances of your organisation. Both types of testing – manual and automated – have their place in a comprehensive cyber security strategy. The key is to find the right combination of both methods to maximise both the efficiency of automated tools and the depth and adaptability of human testers.
The choice between whitebox, greybox and blackbox tests depends heavily on the exact question and the client’s objectives. A well thought-out combination of these tests makes it possible to obtain a comprehensive picture of the security situation and take effective measures to improve cyber security.
It is important that companies recognise the value of penetration testing and consider it an integral part of their security strategy. It’s not just about meeting compliance requirements, it’s about continuously improving and securing the IT infrastructure to protect against the ever-changing threats in the digital world.
Support from ProSmartec
Regardless of where you are in your cyber security journey, ProSmartec is here to help. Our experts will be happy to advise you on the selection of suitable penetration tests and support you in implementing the best strategies for your organisation. We will help you to continuously improve and secure your IT infrastructure. Arrange a consultation.
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