Penetration testing, also known as ethical hacking, is an approach used to assess the security of computer systems, networks, or applications by simulating a cyber attack. Here are the seven steps or phases of penetration testing activities or exercises:
- Planning and reconnaissance: In this phase, the penetration tester gathers information about the target system, network, or application. The tester identifies potential vulnerabilities, determines the scope of the testing, and obtains permission from the organization to conduct the test.
- Scanning: In this phase, the penetration tester uses tools to scan the target system, network, or application for open ports, operating systems, and services. The tester identifies potential entry points that an attacker could exploit.
- Enumeration: In this phase, the penetration tester tries to identify user accounts, passwords, and other information that could be used to gain access to the target system or network.
- Vulnerability analysis: In this phase, the penetration tester identifies vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the target system, network, or application. The tester tries to exploit these vulnerabilities to gain access to the target.
- Exploitation: In this phase, the penetration tester attempts to exploit the identified vulnerabilities to gain access to the target system or network.
- Post-exploitation: In this phase, the penetration tester tries to maintain access to the target system or network by installing backdoors, creating user accounts, or escalating privileges.
- Reporting: In this final phase, the penetration tester provides a detailed report to the organization about the vulnerabilities found, the potential impact of the vulnerabilities, and recommendations for mitigating the vulnerabilities.
It is important to note that these steps may not always be sequential, and the penetration tester may need to go back and repeat some steps. Additionally, the penetration tester should always follow a code of ethics and respect the privacy and confidentiality of the organization being tested.
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