| Microsoft 365 | Sonicwall or Meraki Firewalls | ||||||||||||
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| Microsoft Azure | Microsoft Windows 10 and above | ||||||||||||
| Microsoft Server 2016 or above | Canon MFP Printers
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Frisco Station at The Star District
6160 Warren Pkwy, STE 100
Frisco, TX 75034
hello@datasolved.com
+1 972.417.2889
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What is a Pen Test?
🔍 Step 1: Reconnaissance
The tester gathers information about your environment, such as domain names, IP addresses, and exposed services, to identify potential entry points.
⚙️ Step 2: Scanning
Automated and manual tools probe your systems for known vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and outdated software.
🎯 Step 3: Exploitation
The tester attempts to exploit weaknesses to gain access, escalate privileges, or move deeper into the network. This safely simulates what a real attacker might do.
🧾 Step 4: Reporting
You receive a detailed report explaining which vulnerabilities were found, how they were exploited, and specific recommendations for remediation.
🧩 Testing Approaches
Pen tests vary based on how much information the tester has in advance.
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Black Box: | No prior knowledge of the system. Simulates an external hacker. |
| White Box: | Full system access. Simulates an insider threat or advanced attacker. |
| Gray Box: | Limited knowledge. Balances realism with depth of testing. |
Why Pen Testing Matters
✅ Identify Vulnerabilities Before Attackers Do
A pen test exposes weaknesses early so they can be fixed before cybercriminals find them.
⚖️ Maintain Compliance
Industries such as healthcare (HIPAA) and finance (PCI DSS) require penetration testing as part of their regulatory standards.
💼 Protect Business Continuity
Preventing a breach avoids downtime, financial losses, and damage to your company’s reputation.
Pen Testing Is Not Just for Big Companies
While large enterprises often have dedicated security budgets, small and mid-sized businesses are the most frequent targets of cyberattacks. Attackers know smaller companies usually have fewer resources and less mature defenses.
📊 Did You Know?
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About 43% of all cyberattacks target small businesses
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Only 14% are adequately prepared
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Around 41% of small businesses experienced an attack in 2023, with an average direct cost of $8,000
(Source: U.S. Small Business Administration, 2024)
These numbers show why proactive cybersecurity, including regular vulnerability and penetration testing, is essential for small business survival.
The Bottom Line
Penetration testing is one of the most effective ways to strengthen your security. It helps you:
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Find vulnerabilities before attackers do
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Meet compliance requirements
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Protect your data and reputation
At DataSolved, we make cybersecurity practical and accessible for small and midsized businesses. Our team helps you stay ahead of evolving threats with clear insights and actionable results.
📅 Ready to Strengthen Your Cybersecurity?
Schedule a Call with DataSolved →Discuss a tailored penetration testing plan designed for your business.
A penetration test, or pen test, is a simulated cyberattack that helps identify weaknesses in your network, systems, and applications before real attackers do. Cybersecurity professionals use the same tools and techniques that hackers use to uncover vulnerabilities and provide you with a clear plan to fix them.