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Kyle
Student
Devens, Massachusetts
1
Question
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What is it like to be a penetration tester?
Hi! I am currently looking at possibly becoming a penetration tester. What is an average day on the job look like? What skills and software should I be familiar with?
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7 answers
Chosen Osarodion Iyen
Maintenance
74
Answers
Benin City, Edo, Nigeria
Updated
Chosen Osarodion’s Answer
Becoming a penetration tester can be an exciting and challenging career. Here's what an average day and the necessary skills and software might look like:
Average Day on the Job
1. Morning Briefings and Planning:
- Review the objectives for the day.
- Discuss findings from previous tests with the team.
- Plan the day's tasks, which could include vulnerability assessments, exploit development, or social engineering.
2. Active Testing:
- Conduct penetration tests on networks, applications, or systems.
- Use a variety of tools and techniques to identify and exploit vulnerabilities.
- Document findings and take detailed notes on the methods used.
3. Research and Development:
- Stay updated with the latest vulnerabilities, exploits, and security trends.
- Develop or customize tools and scripts for testing purposes.
- Participate in cybersecurity forums and communities.
4. Reporting:
- Compile comprehensive reports on the vulnerabilities discovered, including the risk assessment and remediation recommendations.
- Present findings to stakeholders, including technical teams and management.
5. Continuous Learning:
- Engage in ongoing training and certifications to stay ahead in the field.
- Attend webinars, conferences, and workshops.
6. Collaboration and Communication:
- Work with other security professionals to address discovered vulnerabilities.
- Communicate with clients to explain findings and suggest mitigation strategies.
Essential Skills
- Technical Skills:
- Networking: Understanding of TCP/IP, network protocols, and architecture.
- Programming: Knowledge of scripting languages like Python, Bash, and Perl.
- Operating Systems:Proficiency with Linux, Windows, and macOS.
- Web Technologies: Familiarity with web applications, databases, and APIs.
- Analytical Skills:
- Ability to think like an attacker to anticipate potential threats.
- Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
- Communication Skills:
- Effective writing skills for reporting.
- Good verbal communication for explaining technical issues to non-technical stakeholders.
Software and Tools
- Network Scanners:
- Nmap
- Nessus
- Vulnerability Scanners:
- OpenVAS
- Qualys
- Exploit Frameworks:
- Metasploit
- Immunity Canvas
- Password Cracking Tools:
- Hashcat
- John the Ripper
- Web Application Testing:
- Burp Suite
- OWASP ZAP
- Scripting Tools:
- Python
- Bash
- Social Engineering Tools:
- SET (Social Engineer Toolkit)
Becoming proficient in these areas and tools will help you succeed as a penetration tester. Continuous learning and adapting to new threats are crucial in this ever-evolving field.
Average Day on the Job
1. Morning Briefings and Planning:
- Review the objectives for the day.
- Discuss findings from previous tests with the team.
- Plan the day's tasks, which could include vulnerability assessments, exploit development, or social engineering.
2. Active Testing:
- Conduct penetration tests on networks, applications, or systems.
- Use a variety of tools and techniques to identify and exploit vulnerabilities.
- Document findings and take detailed notes on the methods used.
3. Research and Development:
- Stay updated with the latest vulnerabilities, exploits, and security trends.
- Develop or customize tools and scripts for testing purposes.
- Participate in cybersecurity forums and communities.
4. Reporting:
- Compile comprehensive reports on the vulnerabilities discovered, including the risk assessment and remediation recommendations.
- Present findings to stakeholders, including technical teams and management.
5. Continuous Learning:
- Engage in ongoing training and certifications to stay ahead in the field.
- Attend webinars, conferences, and workshops.
6. Collaboration and Communication:
- Work with other security professionals to address discovered vulnerabilities.
- Communicate with clients to explain findings and suggest mitigation strategies.
Essential Skills
- Technical Skills:
- Networking: Understanding of TCP/IP, network protocols, and architecture.
- Programming: Knowledge of scripting languages like Python, Bash, and Perl.
- Operating Systems:Proficiency with Linux, Windows, and macOS.
- Web Technologies: Familiarity with web applications, databases, and APIs.
- Analytical Skills:
- Ability to think like an attacker to anticipate potential threats.
- Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
- Communication Skills:
- Effective writing skills for reporting.
- Good verbal communication for explaining technical issues to non-technical stakeholders.
Software and Tools
- Network Scanners:
- Nmap
- Nessus
- Vulnerability Scanners:
- OpenVAS
- Qualys
- Exploit Frameworks:
- Metasploit
- Immunity Canvas
- Password Cracking Tools:
- Hashcat
- John the Ripper
- Web Application Testing:
- Burp Suite
- OWASP ZAP
- Scripting Tools:
- Python
- Bash
- Social Engineering Tools:
- SET (Social Engineer Toolkit)
Becoming proficient in these areas and tools will help you succeed as a penetration tester. Continuous learning and adapting to new threats are crucial in this ever-evolving field.
Julia Kim
Consulting
8
Answers
Arlington, Virginia
Updated
Julia’s Answer
Hi Kyle!
Role Overview: Software Penetration Tester
A Software Penetration Tester, often referred to as a "pen tester" or ethical hacker, plays a crucial role in an organization's cybersecurity framework. Their primary responsibility is to identify, analyze, and address vulnerabilities in software systems and networks before malicious hackers can exploit them.
Key Responsibilities
Vulnerability Assessment:
- Conducting scans and tests on software and hardware systems to detect vulnerabilities.
- Using a variety of tools and techniques to simulate attacks on systems, networks, and applications.
Threat Simulation:
- Mimicking the strategies and actions of attackers using techniques like SQL injection, cross-site scripting, buffer overflows, and other methods to find potential security breaches.
- Employing social engineering tactics to assess the security awareness of system users.
Reporting and Documentation:
- Documenting the vulnerabilities discovered, the methods used to test the systems, and the results of the security tests.
- Preparing clear and detailed reports outlining the findings, including the severity of the vulnerabilities and recommendations for mitigation.
Remediation and Follow-Up:
- Collaborating with development teams to ensure timely remediation of vulnerabilities.
- Re-testing systems post-remediation to ensure that vulnerabilities have been successfully resolved.
Continuous Learning and Tool Development:
- Keeping up-to-date with the latest security trends, attack techniques, mitigation practices, and cybersecurity tools.
- Developing custom tools or scripts to automate and enhance testing processes.
Skills and Tools
Technical Skills: Deep understanding of network configurations, encryption technologies, operating systems, and database systems.
Analytical Skills: Ability to think like both a defender and an attacker to anticipate security breaches.
Communication Skills: Proficiency in documenting and explaining technical details to non-technical stakeholders.
Tools: Proficiency with penetration testing tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, OWASP ZAP, and Nessus.
Importance in the Industry
Given the increasing incidence of cyberattacks and data breaches, the role of a Software Penetration Tester is more critical than ever. They provide an essential service by helping organizations preemptively secure their systems, thereby protecting sensitive data and maintaining trust with clients and stakeholders. This proactive approach to security helps prevent potential financial losses and reputational damage associated with data breaches.
Role Overview: Software Penetration Tester
A Software Penetration Tester, often referred to as a "pen tester" or ethical hacker, plays a crucial role in an organization's cybersecurity framework. Their primary responsibility is to identify, analyze, and address vulnerabilities in software systems and networks before malicious hackers can exploit them.
Key Responsibilities
Vulnerability Assessment:
- Conducting scans and tests on software and hardware systems to detect vulnerabilities.
- Using a variety of tools and techniques to simulate attacks on systems, networks, and applications.
Threat Simulation:
- Mimicking the strategies and actions of attackers using techniques like SQL injection, cross-site scripting, buffer overflows, and other methods to find potential security breaches.
- Employing social engineering tactics to assess the security awareness of system users.
Reporting and Documentation:
- Documenting the vulnerabilities discovered, the methods used to test the systems, and the results of the security tests.
- Preparing clear and detailed reports outlining the findings, including the severity of the vulnerabilities and recommendations for mitigation.
Remediation and Follow-Up:
- Collaborating with development teams to ensure timely remediation of vulnerabilities.
- Re-testing systems post-remediation to ensure that vulnerabilities have been successfully resolved.
Continuous Learning and Tool Development:
- Keeping up-to-date with the latest security trends, attack techniques, mitigation practices, and cybersecurity tools.
- Developing custom tools or scripts to automate and enhance testing processes.
Skills and Tools
Technical Skills: Deep understanding of network configurations, encryption technologies, operating systems, and database systems.
Analytical Skills: Ability to think like both a defender and an attacker to anticipate security breaches.
Communication Skills: Proficiency in documenting and explaining technical details to non-technical stakeholders.
Tools: Proficiency with penetration testing tools such as Metasploit, Burp Suite, OWASP ZAP, and Nessus.
Importance in the Industry
Given the increasing incidence of cyberattacks and data breaches, the role of a Software Penetration Tester is more critical than ever. They provide an essential service by helping organizations preemptively secure their systems, thereby protecting sensitive data and maintaining trust with clients and stakeholders. This proactive approach to security helps prevent potential financial losses and reputational damage associated with data breaches.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Kyle,
As a white-hat hacker or penetration tester, your primary responsibility is to mimic real-world cyber attacks on an organization's computer systems, networks, and software to pinpoint vulnerabilities and potential security threats. A typical day at work might involve:
Information Gathering: Collect data about the target organization using various methods such as open-source intelligence (OSINT), social engineering, and network scanning.
Network Scanning: Utilize tools like Nmap, Nessus, or OpenVAS to scan the target network for vulnerabilities and accessible ports.
Vulnerability Analysis: Investigate identified vulnerabilities to assess their impact and potential exploitability.
Vulnerability Exploitation: Try to exploit identified vulnerabilities using techniques like SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), or buffer overflow attacks.
Reporting: Record findings in a straightforward and concise manner using tools like Metasploit or Burp Suite, and present the results to clients or stakeholders in a manner that they can comprehend and act on.
Risk Mitigation: Offer recommendations for mitigating identified vulnerabilities and assist organizations in implementing security measures to avert future attacks.
To excel as a penetration tester, it's crucial to have a solid foundation in computer networking, operating systems, programming languages (like Python), and cybersecurity principles. Familiarity with common hacking tools and techniques is also a must.
Here are some popular software tools used by penetration testers:
Nmap: A port scanner for identifying hosts and services on computer networks.
Metasploit Framework: A toolkit for developing and executing exploits against vulnerable systems.
Burp Suite: A web application testing tool for identifying vulnerabilities in web applications.
Wireshark: A packet analyzer for monitoring network traffic.
John the Ripper: A password cracker for testing password strength.
Credible References Used:
SANS Institute - Penetration Testing 504: Advanced Penetration Testing - Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) Course Description sans.org
EC-Council - Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) v10 Exam Cram: Exclusive Preparation for the Certified Ethical Hacker v10 Exam ec-council
CompTIA - PenTest+ Study Guide: Get Certified in Cybersecurity Penetration Testing comptia
May God Bless You,
JC.
As a white-hat hacker or penetration tester, your primary responsibility is to mimic real-world cyber attacks on an organization's computer systems, networks, and software to pinpoint vulnerabilities and potential security threats. A typical day at work might involve:
Information Gathering: Collect data about the target organization using various methods such as open-source intelligence (OSINT), social engineering, and network scanning.
Network Scanning: Utilize tools like Nmap, Nessus, or OpenVAS to scan the target network for vulnerabilities and accessible ports.
Vulnerability Analysis: Investigate identified vulnerabilities to assess their impact and potential exploitability.
Vulnerability Exploitation: Try to exploit identified vulnerabilities using techniques like SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), or buffer overflow attacks.
Reporting: Record findings in a straightforward and concise manner using tools like Metasploit or Burp Suite, and present the results to clients or stakeholders in a manner that they can comprehend and act on.
Risk Mitigation: Offer recommendations for mitigating identified vulnerabilities and assist organizations in implementing security measures to avert future attacks.
To excel as a penetration tester, it's crucial to have a solid foundation in computer networking, operating systems, programming languages (like Python), and cybersecurity principles. Familiarity with common hacking tools and techniques is also a must.
Here are some popular software tools used by penetration testers:
Nmap: A port scanner for identifying hosts and services on computer networks.
Metasploit Framework: A toolkit for developing and executing exploits against vulnerable systems.
Burp Suite: A web application testing tool for identifying vulnerabilities in web applications.
Wireshark: A packet analyzer for monitoring network traffic.
John the Ripper: A password cracker for testing password strength.
Credible References Used:
SANS Institute - Penetration Testing 504: Advanced Penetration Testing - Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) Course Description sans.org
EC-Council - Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) v10 Exam Cram: Exclusive Preparation for the Certified Ethical Hacker v10 Exam ec-council
CompTIA - PenTest+ Study Guide: Get Certified in Cybersecurity Penetration Testing comptia
May God Bless You,
JC.
Spandana Bhattacharya
Cyber Security Consultant
2
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Spandana’s Answer
Hello Kyle,
Penetration testers are well-versed in multiple technical and non-technical abilities, enabling them to test client networks professionally and ethically. Having a profound grasp of programming and fluency in multiple languages can be a significant advantage. Alongside coding, a robust understanding of networking and network protocols is crucial. They need to comprehend how real attackers exploit protocols like DNS, TCP/IP, and DHCP to gain unauthorized access.
Moreover, penetration testers need to be equipped with a range of soft skills to excel in their tasks. The ability to think critically and solve problems creatively is indispensable, as many attacks may not go as planned. Swiftly devising innovative solutions to complex challenges is a fundamental part of a penetration tester's role, making it not only a job but an exciting adventure in problem-solving.
All the Best to you!
Penetration testers are well-versed in multiple technical and non-technical abilities, enabling them to test client networks professionally and ethically. Having a profound grasp of programming and fluency in multiple languages can be a significant advantage. Alongside coding, a robust understanding of networking and network protocols is crucial. They need to comprehend how real attackers exploit protocols like DNS, TCP/IP, and DHCP to gain unauthorized access.
Moreover, penetration testers need to be equipped with a range of soft skills to excel in their tasks. The ability to think critically and solve problems creatively is indispensable, as many attacks may not go as planned. Swiftly devising innovative solutions to complex challenges is a fundamental part of a penetration tester's role, making it not only a job but an exciting adventure in problem-solving.
All the Best to you!
William Nwaogu
Construction, CAD and BIM
299
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
William’s Answer
To be a Penetration Tester requires much of coding, networking, and computer security skills.
Troubleshooting computer systems e.g network, server, websites, software applications, and other computer systems for security weaknesses or loopholes. This involves live auditing of firewalls in computer systems.
Certain specialized software applications like Eset Smart Security can assist at micro levels.
You can become a Certified Ethical Hacker or become Comptia PenTest+ certified or similar qualifications.
https://www.comptia.org/certifications/pentest
Troubleshooting computer systems e.g network, server, websites, software applications, and other computer systems for security weaknesses or loopholes. This involves live auditing of firewalls in computer systems.
Certain specialized software applications like Eset Smart Security can assist at micro levels.
You can become a Certified Ethical Hacker or become Comptia PenTest+ certified or similar qualifications.
https://www.comptia.org/certifications/pentest
William Nwaogu
Construction, CAD and BIM
299
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
William’s Answer
To be a Penetration Tester requires much of coding, networking, and computer security skills.
Troubleshooting computer systems e.g network, server, websites, software applications, and other computer systems for security weaknesses or loopholes. This involves live auditing of firewalls in computer systems.
Certain specialized software applications like Eset Smart Security can assist at micro levels.
You can become a Certified Ethical Hacker or Comptia PenTest+ certification.
https://www.comptia.org/certifications/pentest
Troubleshooting computer systems e.g network, server, websites, software applications, and other computer systems for security weaknesses or loopholes. This involves live auditing of firewalls in computer systems.
Certain specialized software applications like Eset Smart Security can assist at micro levels.
You can become a Certified Ethical Hacker or Comptia PenTest+ certification.
https://www.comptia.org/certifications/pentest
Rajeev Kumar
Technical Project Manager
12
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Rajeev’s Answer
As you observe the evolving landscape, you'll notice a growing trend of businesses embracing automation and technology. However, this advancement isn't without its challenges. Cyber threats are on the rise, with hackers increasingly targeting this industry to exploit customer data. But here's the silver lining - this scenario opens up an exciting and increasingly popular career path for you.
By stepping into this profession, you'll be tasked with conducting ethical hacking. Your role will involve testing robust applications, identifying potential security vulnerabilities, and fortifying them. It's a job that's as thrilling as it is impactful.
To aid you in this journey, here are some powerful tools you can familiarize yourself with:
1. Burp Suite
2. Wireshark
3. Zap
Diving into these tools will provide invaluable assistance and equip you with the skills needed to excel in this field. So, go ahead and explore them. You're on the brink of an exciting career that's growing more relevant by the day.
By stepping into this profession, you'll be tasked with conducting ethical hacking. Your role will involve testing robust applications, identifying potential security vulnerabilities, and fortifying them. It's a job that's as thrilling as it is impactful.
To aid you in this journey, here are some powerful tools you can familiarize yourself with:
1. Burp Suite
2. Wireshark
3. Zap
Diving into these tools will provide invaluable assistance and equip you with the skills needed to excel in this field. So, go ahead and explore them. You're on the brink of an exciting career that's growing more relevant by the day.