Penetration tests (pentesting) plays an important role in determining whether the technical details of your security policy are in order. But how can ''Ethical Hackers'' be sure they are operating correctly? The answer seems to lie in following structured frameworks. In this article, we discuss the most common methodologies, and what they can do for organizations and Cyber specialists.
Pentest Methods
The most common methods for conducting pen tests are:
- OWASP Top 10
- OSSTMM
- NIST
- PTES
- ISSAF
What is OWASP?
The Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP)., recognized worldwide by developers and Cybersecurity specialists, is a foundation that supports organizations in improving the security of their Web applications. The OWASP makes several guides and tools available, including the OWASP Web Security Testing Guide (WSTG), the OWASP Mobile Application Security Testing Guide (MASTG) and the OWASP Top 10.
The OWASP Top 10 is a signature tool that recurs regularly in the WSTG. It provides a ranking of the most common Web application security problems.
What is OSSTMM?
The Open Source Security Testing Methodology Manual (OSSTMM). provides a roadmap for conducting security assessments, focusing on the current state of Cybersecurity. Therefore, the OSSTMM is updated approximately every six months.
It is important to note that the OSSTMM was developed as a method for security audits to meet the standards framework, rather than as a method solely for conducting pen tests. This means that it is not as comprehensive as, for example, The OWASP Top 10, and it does not provide tools and approaches for completing certain stages in the pen testing process. However, it is a valuable tool for meeting the regulatory requirements applicable to an organization.
What is NIST?
The cybersecurity framework of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) provides structured guidelines and best practices for organizations seeking to strengthen their security policies. The framework contains a set of recommendations and standards that will help organizations better recognize, prevent and recover from Cyber incidents.
As part of the overarching framework is NIST Pent tests a methodology consistent with NIST's detailed guidelines. To meet these standards, companies must perform pen tests on their applications and networks according to a set of predetermined guidelines.
What is the PTES?
The Penetration Testing Execution Standard (PTES). is designed to provide clarity on what organizations should expect from a pentest. The PTES is not only one of the most recently developed methodologies for pentesting, but also one of the most comprehensive.
The PTES methodology is a structured approach to pentesting that balances the overall priorities set by the PTES with the vulnerabilities unique to the organization.
What is ISSAF?
The Information System Security Assessment Framework (ISSAF). is developed by the Open Information Systems Security Group (OISSG). It links individual pen testing steps with useful tools, with the goal of providing a complete guide to conducting a pen test. In this way, organizations are empowered to ultimately develop their own pentest methodologies focused on their own goals and circumstances.
The main feature of the ISSAF is that it provides comprehensive technical guidance for testing, as opposed to frameworks such as the OSSTMM that primarily provide auditing methodologies.
What method do we use at Warpnet?
We use OWASP, because it provides insight into the best practices used by recognized pentesters and organizations worldwide. In this way, we can combine our knowledge with those of Cybersecurity experts from around the world. In addition, we see the OWASP Top 10 as a valuable way to keep up with the development of current attack methods.
Learn more about pentesting, and what approach we recommend for your organization? Please do not hesitate to contact us!