HSM IT ServicesPenetration Testing
Find and fix the weaknesses an attacker would exploit, before someone else finds them. Our Penetration Testing uses the techniques of real attackers to safely test your networks, applications, cloud services and people. You receive a clear report that explains what we found, how it could be exploited and what to fix first, with a retest to confirm remediation.
Vulnerability scans tell you what might be wrong. A penetration test shows what an attacker could actually do with it. HSM IT Services testers combine automated tools with manual techniques to probe your environment the way a motivated adversary would, chaining small weaknesses together to see whether they lead to sensitive data, administrative control or business disruption. Every engagement is scoped in writing, with clear rules of engagement and emergency contacts, so testing is safe and controlled.
Testing options include external network tests of internet-facing systems, internal tests that simulate a compromised device or malicious insider, web application tests, Microsoft 365 and cloud configuration reviews, and wireless assessments. Because Layer 8 is where many breaches begin, we also offer social engineering engagements such as targeted phishing and pretext phone calls, conducted with management approval and handled respectfully so the focus stays on improving processes rather than blaming individuals.
The report is written for two audiences. An executive summary explains business risk in plain language for leadership and boards. Technical findings include evidence, severity ratings and step-by-step remediation guidance for whoever will fix them. Findings reference common standards such as the OWASP Top 10 and CIS Controls v8.1 where relevant, and support requirements from clients, insurers and frameworks such as SOC 2 and ISO/IEC 27001:2022. A retest confirms that fixes were effective.
What is included
- External network penetration testing
- Internal network and Active Directory testing
- Web application and API testing
- Microsoft 365 and cloud configuration testing
- Wireless network assessment
- Phishing and social engineering simulations
- Executive and technical reporting with prioritized fixes
- Retesting of remediated findings
How it works
Scope
We agree on targets, testing methods, timing and rules of engagement, documented in a signed authorization.
Test
Our testers identify and safely exploit weaknesses, notifying you immediately of any critical issue.
Report
We deliver findings with evidence, risk ratings and remediation steps, and walk through them with you.
Retest
After you remediate, we retest the findings and update the report to reflect the results.
Who it is for
Penetration testing suits organizations that need independent assurance of their security, whether because a client contract, insurer, auditor or regulator requires it, or because leadership wants to know how the organization would hold up against a real attack. It is also valuable after major changes such as launching a web application, moving to the cloud, merging networks or replacing a firewall.
Questions we hear
What is the difference between a vulnerability scan and a penetration test?
A vulnerability scan is an automated check for known weaknesses, producing a list of potential issues. A penetration test is performed by skilled testers who verify those weaknesses, look for flaws scanners miss and attempt to exploit them to show real impact. Scans are useful for ongoing hygiene, while penetration tests provide deeper, independent assurance.
Will testing disrupt our operations?
Testing is planned to minimize risk. We agree on timing, exclude fragile systems where needed and avoid techniques that could cause outages unless you specifically approve them. Testers stay in contact with your designated person throughout and will pause immediately if anything unexpected occurs. Most clients notice little or no impact during an engagement.
How often should we have a penetration test?
Many organizations test annually and after significant changes, such as new applications, cloud migrations or major network redesigns. Some contracts and frameworks set specific expectations. We recommend a schedule based on your risk, the rate of change in your environment and any external requirements you must meet.