Table of Contents
Network VAPT is a security check performed by experts to find weaknesses in a network that attackers could exploit. The main goal is to identify and fix these vulnerabilities in systems, networks, devices like switches and routers, and hosts before hackers can take advantage of them.
IT Network Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) is a process where security experts look for weak spots in a network that attackers could exploit. Because of the constant risk of cyberattacks, it’s essential to conduct VAPT to safeguard sensitive information. Depending on the severity of the attack, an attacker might learn about the network or manipulate data for their benefit.
Types of Network VAPT
Network vulnerability assessment and penetration testing can be divided into two types.
Internal VAPT
In this type, only the internal network is assessed. Key components like internal servers, firewalls, and data elements such as database and file servers are scanned for vulnerabilities.
Since the test is to be performed from within the network, only vulnerability assessment is performed, while penetration testing is not performed. Internal security assessment can be performed by physically being inside the network premises or by performing a remote session into the network.
External VAPT
In this type, the external perimeter is scanned over the internet. Since the testing is done from outside the premises, the vulnerability assessment is always followed by a detailed penetration testing.
Security bugs or problems are identified through vulnerability scanning, while in the latter, those bugs are tested for exploitation. Besides this, there are various other types of VAPT that focus mainly on network components such as firewall VAPT, servers VAPT, etc.
Why Network VAPT Is Important?
Network security testing is crucial for any company to protect its intellectual property. Since most attacks come from within, it’s essential to scan networks regularly and fix any vulnerabilities. This practice helps companies improve their cybersecurity, safeguarding their data from both internal and external threats.
According to Gartner, 78% of attacks originate from within the network. External attacks are easily facilitated by the availability of hacking tools. Misconfigurations in firewalls are a significant cause of data leakage and hacks. Additionally, inadequate server patching greatly contributes to network security vulnerabilities.
Which Company Requires Network VAPT?
- IT product companies: To protect their code and data.
- IT services companies: To prevent external attacks.
- Manufacturing companies: To protect their designs, drawings, and inventory data.
- Finance companies: To protect their financial data, secure transactions, and records.
- Pharma companies: To safeguard their patents, drug formulas, and intellectual property.
- All firms and corporates: To protect the data they process or store, including customer data.
Benefits of Network VAPT
Network Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) offers significant benefits to organizations. Here are some key advantages:
- Identifies and prioritizes organizational risks.
- Reduces the chances of data theft and breaches.
- Protects sensitive data and intellectual property.
- Aids in achieving compliance with standards such as ISO 27001, GDPR, and HIPAA.
- Builds customer trust and confidence.
- Promotes team discipline, leading to increased productivity.
- Detects security vulnerabilities before attackers exploit them.
- Creates an inventory of all network devices, including their purpose and details.
- Defines the risk level present in the network.
- Establishes a business risk/benefit curve to optimize security investments.
How Do We Do Network Penetration Testing?
To perform a successful penetration test, there are four essential steps:
Step 1: Information Gathering
Network Penetration tests fall into three main categories.
- Black box testing
- Gray box testing
- White box testing
A network penetration test conducted from the perspective of an average hacker, with minimal internal knowledge of the system or network, is known as black box testing.
This type of test is usually the fastest as it uses tools to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in the external network.
It is important to note that if the perimeter cannot be breached in this type of test, any internal vulnerabilities will remain undiscovered.
Gray Box Testing
A network penetration test conducted from the perspective of a user with access to the system, potentially including elevated privileges, is known as gray box testing.
This type of test aims to provide a more comprehensive assessment of the network’s security by identifying both external and internal vulnerabilities.
White Box Testing
A network penetration test conducted from the perspective of an IT or IS user, who has access to the source code and architecture documentation, is known as white box testing.
This type of penetration test usually takes the longest time due to the extensive data that must be examined to identify vulnerabilities.
Understanding the different types of network penetration tests, whether you’re a penetration tester or a business owner, is important because each type provides specific benefits to the organization.
Step 2: Reconnaissance And Discovery
Reconnaissance
During the reconnaissance phase, you will start by using port and network scanners to map the network, identify the devices on it, and find existing vulnerabilities. Your goal is to locate these vulnerabilities so you can begin exploiting them.
Social engineering, which involves deceiving individuals into revealing confidential or personal information, can also be used to identify network vulnerabilities, making it easier to gain access.
Discovery
Discovery is when you compile the information gathered during reconnaissance. By aggregating this data, you can identify a path to breach the network.
Step 3: Performing The Network Penetration Test
Technical Testing
During reconnaissance and discovery, a penetration tester runs port and vulnerability scanners on the network.
You notice a client system with an open port on Port 80, which is unusual because this system typically doesn’t need to connect to the internet.
This suggests the system might lack proper defenses against attacks via Port 80. To exploit this vulnerability, you run an SQL Injection or Buffer Overflow attack to gain access.
Next, you use the pivot method, leveraging the compromised system to attack other systems within the network. Additionally, you employ a Brute Force attack, assuming the internal security defenses are not equipped to handle attacks from a trusted host within the network.
Human Testing
During reconnaissance and discovery, your scanning tools revealed no technical vulnerabilities in the systems.
However, you noticed that social engineering and phishing attacks might be the best approach. You easily found key employees and their contact information through social media searches.
You craft a phishing email that looks like it’s from Human Resources, asking them to download and fill out a file for HR purposes, embedding Key Logger or Rootkit malware in the attachment.
You then send this email to the key employees in the Accounting Department identified on social media and wait for them to take the bait.
Once notified that an Accounting employee downloaded the malware, you gain access to the network, gather sensitive financial information, and potentially escalate account privileges to gain administrator-level access.
Successfully accessing sensitive data or critical systems means you’ve breached the network.
If you can’t gain unauthorized access, your network penetration test isn’t necessarily unsuccessful. Understanding the network’s strengths and weaknesses is valuable for the client. In this case, you could recommend a more in-depth test, like a white box test, in the future.
Remember, completing a network penetration test for a client requires providing them with results and recommendations from your test
Step 4: Reporting & Recommendations
After a penetration test, a detailed report specific to the type of test performed is created for the client. This report includes the process followed, the vulnerabilities found, evidence collected, and recommendations for remediation.
It’s crucial for data owners to understand the risks these vulnerabilities pose to their business. The pen tester’s role is to provide a risk analysis that helps the client make informed decisions.
Remediation may involve implementing patches and updates. Additionally, it might include the implementation of specific policies, such as Employee Use policies and IT Security policies, if internal vulnerabilities are found.
Remember, a successful network penetration test doesn’t necessarily mean breaching the network. If the tester cannot breach the network, it validates that the organization’s existing security measures are effective in deterring, detecting, or preventing attacks.
Why to Choose Mechsoft Technologies?
Choose Mechsoft Technologies for network penetration services in Dubai because we offer a team of certified security experts using advanced tools and methodologies. We provide comprehensive and customized solutions to address all vulnerabilities, ensuring robust network security.
