Introduction
So you need some penetration testing? Choosing the right penetration testing company is more crucial than ever. Explore the best pen testing companies UK has to offer, ensuring your cyber security needs are expertly met. Why does choosing a penetration testing company matter? We’ll delve deep into what penetration testing involves, its types, and a carefully curated list of the top providers which can help you decide what vendors to contact. Before we dive deep into the land of penetration testing, we should first clear up some concepts surrounding what penetration testing actually is, and and technical jargon.
So what is penetration testing exactly?
Penetration testing, or pen testing, is a crucial process in identifying and strengthening vulnerabilities in a system. It involves simulating cyber attacks in a controlled environment to evaluate the security of a system. This section will explore various security testing services, including offerings you are likely to see when researching penetration testing companies. Some companies may specialise in specific areas, while others may not offer the services listed below at all. It’s important to research the company (We have done that for you though) before agreeing to purchase their services.
- Web Application Penetration Testing: Tests web applications for vulnerabilities, an essential aspect of website security.
- API Penetration Testing: Tests the security of application programming interfaces (APIs), essential for seamless, secure app interactions.
- Network Penetration Testing: Evaluates the security of your network infrastructure, crucial in safeguarding your digital perimeter.
- Cloud Penetration Testing: Assesses the security of cloud-based services, a must in our increasingly cloud-reliant world.
- GDPR Penetration Testing: Ensures compliance with GDPR regulations, protecting data privacy and integrity.
- Mobile Application Penetration Testing: Focuses on securing mobile apps against a growing range of mobile-specific threats.
There is also Social Engineering Penetration Testing…however, we probably don’t need to be discussing what happens during those engagements.
Why does choosing the right penetration testing provider matter?
Choosing the right penetration testing provider isn’t just a matter of ticking off a compliance checklist; it’s about securing your digital kingdom against the barbarians at the gates. And let me tell you, those barbarians aren’t slowing down for a tea break.
Let me tell you a story.
Picture this: Company SwankyStartupInc, let’s call them ‘OopsTech,’ decided to go bargain-bin shopping for their pen testing services. They found ‘CheapTestersRUs,’ a company whose idea of advanced security testing was akin to checking if the front door was locked while leaving the back door wide open with a neon welcome sign.
The result? A cyber-attack that turned OopsTech’s network into a digital zombie apocalypse. Data leaked faster than a poorly scripted soap opera plot, with personal client details making guest appearances on dark web forums. The aftermath was a mix of PR nightmares, legal jamborees, and a CEO looking like they’d seen a ghost.
This tale of digital woe is a cautionary reminder: Choosing the right penetration testing company matters. It’s not just about finding vulnerabilities; it’s about finding a partner who can navigate the labyrinth of cyber threats with the finesse of a digital Theseus (On a side note, contact us about a free OSINT assessment). You need a team that doesn’t just report problems but provides robust, real-world solutions that won’t leave you feeling like you’re starring in your own horror show.
Top things to look for in a Pen Testing Companies UK
When selecting a penetration testing company, it’s crucial to consider various factors to ensure that you receive comprehensive and effective cybersecurity services. Here are the top five things to look for when choosing among the leading pentest companies UK has to offer.:
- Expertise and qualifications: Look for a company with a team of certified professionals who have credentials such as CREST, OSCP, or CISSP. These certifications indicate a high level of expertise and a commitment to the field of cyber security.
- Customised testing approaches: Choose a company that offers tailored penetration testing services. Every organisation has unique security needs, and a one-size-fits-all approach won’t be as effective. The company should be able to customise its testing methods based on your specific infrastructure and security concerns.
- Scoping: The company should properly scope every assessment. Scoping should be thorough and complete, taking into account all the assets within the scope and the numerous variables which come into play when scoping an assessment. A company who has not had a penetration test before might not know what to look out for, however, to give you some insight. The testing company should ask several questions on each test type that are required for the testing, how vast are the assets? How many user-roles are within the scope? Is the test to be conducted from a black, grey or white box perspective? Is the test to be conducted from an authenticated perspective, or unauthenticated? What environment is to be tested? If these questions are not asked at the scoping stage, the total price of the project may not accurately reflect the environment.
- Communication: A good penetration testing company should keep the client updated throughout the assessment, providing updates on when the testing is being conducted and hiccups which will almost certainly occur. Good communication should include daily updates and quick triaging of high/critical risk vulnerabilities, especially if the pertain to production environments. Bad communication during the penetration test will often lead to a poorer outcome for the assessment. The testing team must keep in constant communication with the client, this can be via email, a custom slack channel or any other seamless means which has been negotiated. The project lead for both sides must agree to a communication strategy.
- Comprehensive reporting and support: A good penetration testing company should provide detailed reports that not only identify vulnerabilities but also offer clear, actionable recommendations for remediation. Look for any added value to the company’s reports, such as Indicators of compromise. Additionally, check if they offer post-testing support to help address any security issues and improve your defenses. Some companies (Such as us), offer free retesting after they have conducted the assessment, although this not common.
- Reputation and experience: Research the company’s reputation in the market. Look for reviews, case studies, or testimonials from previous clients. Experience in handling a variety of security scenarios and a track record of successful engagements are good indicators of a reliable company. Speak to a security professional who will be handling the assessment prior to signing any project proposal. Ask for an example penetration test report if required. Most companies will be able to provide you with a sample report that will closely reflect the reporting standards, after all, this is the final deliverable for most penetration testing services.
- Ethical and legal Compliance: Ensure that the company adheres to ethical hacking guidelines and complies with all relevant legal and regulatory standards. This includes respecting data privacy laws and having proper contracts and non-disclosure agreements in place to protect your sensitive information.
- Cost: It is important to way in the costs when it comes to assessing a penetration testing company in the UK. The final price can vary depending on the size and scale of the company. The costs can range from anywhere between £1000-£1700 a day. If you want a deep dive into penetration test pricing. We wrote a fantastic guide you will almost certainly want to read.
List of Top 5 Pen Testing Companies UK
- Sencode
- Aptive
- Sentrium
- Nettitude
- Cyber Tec Security
Fear not! We’ve done the heavy lifting for you. In this pivotal section, we introduce the crème de la crème of the UK’s penetration testing landscape. From renowned industry leaders to innovative up-and-comers, each company on our list brings a unique blend of professionalism, expertise, and bespoke support.
Sencode
Overview: Yes. Of course we are first, but we truly believe in that. We offer a range of penetration testing services. We focus on Penetration Testing, Cloud Configuration reviews and bespoke Red Team Assessments. If there is a vulnerability we can exploit, we will find it.
Services Offered:
- Penetration Testing (API, Web, Cloud, GDPR, Mobile, Network)
- Cyber Security Assessments (Cloud Config reviews, OSINT Assessments, Red Team Assessments)
- Cyber Awareness Training
- Breaches Database
- Academy (Cyber Awareness Training Platform)
You can always contact us using the form below to find out. Safeguard your digital assets with our expert-led penetration testing services.
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Sentrium
Overview: Sentrium is a Cheltenham-based cyber security company specialising in penetration testing services and source code analysis
Services Offered:
- Penetration testing
- Offers a comprehensive source code analysis review.
Aptive
Overview: Based in Surrey Research Park, Guildford, Aptive offers affordable mobile and web application security testing services.
Services Offered:
- Vulnerability Assessment Services: Both manual and automated vulnerability assessments
- Penetration Testing
Nettitude
Overview: Nettitude is a global provider of cyber security services. They focus on technical assurance, consulting, managed detection, and response offerings.
Services Offered:
- Security Testing
- Penetration Testing
- Risk and Compliance
Cyber Tec Security
Overview: Founded in 2018, Cyber Tec Security is a Jersey-based IASME Certification Body focused on improving the security health of businesses across the UK, especially SMEs.
Services Offered:
- Offers a best price guarantee on certification packages and values authenticity over automation, providing personalised service with security specialists.
- Penetration Testing
Conclusion
And there you have it, a comprehensive guide to navigating the intricate world of Pen Testing Companies UK. From understanding the multifaceted nature of pen testing to diving into the nuances of specific services like API, cloud, and GDPR testing, we’ve covered it all. We’ve even shared a spooky tale of what can go wrong when you skimp on quality cyber security services, adding a sprinkle of humor to a serious subject.
The importance of selecting the right penetration testing provider cannot be overstated. It’s a decision that goes beyond mere compliance; it’s about safeguarding your digital assets against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. Remember, in the realm of cybersecurity, cutting corners can lead to dire consequences.
So, take your time, do your research, and choose a partner that aligns with your specific cyber security needs. Remember, the right penetration testing company is not just a service provider; they are your ally in the ongoing battle against cyber threats.
We hope this guide has been informative and perhaps even a bit entertaining. Don’t hesitate to reach out for further advice or to discuss your cybersecurity needs. After all, in the digital age, staying one step ahead of cyber threats is not just a necessity; it’s a smart business strategy.
Want to start a conversation about securing your digital realm? Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote, and let’s talk cyber security. Remember, your digital security is our mission, and we’re here to help you navigate these complex waters with confidence and expertise.
This is a common question when looking for penetration testing services. The duration of a penetration test can often vary widely. The volume of the assets and complexity of the systems are often the biggest factor on the length of the assessment. Generally, a pen test can take anywhere from a couple of days, to several weeks. Other factors may also dictate the length of an assessment, such as the requirements for on-site or off-site testing. Given the complexities of scoping, it is important to work closely with a penetration testing provider to professionally scope the assessment.
The primary goal of any penetration test is the identify if vulnerabilities are present on a digital asset, before an attacker has the oppurtunity to exploit them. A penetration test involves a simulated cyber attack against the system, under controlled condiitions. This approach helps organisations properly understand their security posture, thereby improving their security. Some organisations also require penetration testing to adhere to specific standards and regulations.
When assessing the frequency of penetration testing, many factors should be considered. Common factors could include, a change in infrastructure or code base, compliance requirements, or a previous security breach that requires thorough investigation. As a rule of thumb, it’s recommended to conduct penetration testing on an annual basis, however, high value organisations should update their frequency requirements based on the direct risk to the organisation. It is not uncommon for organisations with high value intellectual property to be frequent targets from sophisticated attackers.