Network pentesting is a process that can be used to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in a network of devices or any kind of network infrastructure. In this blog post, we will discuss 20 tips that will help increase your chances of success when performing a network pentest.
Tip #01: Understand the network pentesting process
The first step to take when network pentesting is understanding the process. This includes understanding the different phases of network pentesting, which are reconnaissance, scanning, enumeration, exploitation, and post-exploitation.
Tip #02: Use automated tools
There are several automated tools available that can help you with network pentesting. Only the best pen testing tools can help you save time and effort, so it’s a good idea to consider them. They also rule out room for human error except for the initial tuning and setting up the tool for the specific target environment.
Tip #03: Use forensics tools
Forensics tools are used to examine and analyse data from computers or networks. After an attack has occurred, you can utilise this to discover information about it.
Tip #04: Use reverse engineering techniques
Reverse engineering is the process of decompiling software to extract information about it. This can be used to find vulnerabilities or malware.
Tip #05: Use wireless hacking techniques
Wireless hacking is the process of attacking networks using wireless devices like laptops and smartphones. This may be accomplished by exploiting vulnerabilities in wireless protocols.
Tip #06: Perform social engineering attacks
Social engineering attacks are a type of attack that relies on human interaction to trick people into revealing information or performing actions that they would not normally do.
Tip #07: Use password cracking techniques
Password cracking is the process of trying to guess passwords. Brute force and dictionary attacks may be used here. Hydra, Hashcat, and John the Ripper are some popular tools for this.
Tip #08: Use denial-of-service attacks
DoS attacks try to make a network or device unavailable. This is usually accomplished by flooding it with traffic or requests.
Tip #09: Use man-in-the-middle attacks
This is a type of attack where the attacker intercepts communication between two devices or services. The attacker then modifies the communication without the knowledge of either party.
Tip #10: Perform session hijacking
Session hijacking is a type of attack where the attacker takes over an active network connection between two devices. This can be done by obtaining the session ID or cookie.
Tip #11: Use network mapping tools
Network mapping is the process of creating a map of a network. Tools like Nmap and NetScanner can be used for network mapping and identifying other services.
Tip #12: Use port scanning techniques
Port scanning is the process of identifying open ports on devices on a network. You can also check for any open ports using tools such as Nmap and Metasploit.
Tip #13: Use vulnerability scanners
Vulnerability scanners are tools that scan networks for vulnerabilities. These scans can be automated or manual.
Tip #14: Use exploit frameworks
Exploit frameworks are collections of exploits and payloads that can be used to attack systems. They provide a structure for attacking systems and make it easy to reuse exploits.
Tip #15: Use sandboxes
Sandboxes are a way of isolating malware or exploits from the rest of the network. This can be done by running them in a virtual environment or on a separate machine.
Tip #16: Use honeypots
A honeypot is a system that is designed to be attacked. It can be used to lure attackers and collect information about them.
Tip #17: Use network traffic analysis tools
Network traffic analysis tools are used to monitor and analyse network traffic. Tools like Wireshark and NetFlow Analyzer can be used for this.
Tip #18: Use packet sniffing techniques
Packet sniffing is the process of capturing network packets and analysing them. Wireshark and tcpdump are two examples of packet sniffing tools.
Tip #19: Use log analysis tools
Log analysis tools are used to analyse log files for information about attacks or suspicious activity. These tools can be used to find clues about the source of an attack after it has happened.
Tip #20: Use intrusion detection systems
Intrusion detection systems are designed to identify and respond to network attacks. These systems can be used to alert administrators about suspicious activity or block attacks.
The bottom line
There are many things you can do to enhance your chances of success when network pentesting. To begin, make sure you have the correct tools and a strategy in place. Second, know your target. And third, use the techniques that will be most effective for the types of attacks you are planning to perform.