Security Testing Types

Vulnerability Scanning

Automated process that identifies known security weaknesses in systems, networks, and applications. Typically performed regularly to detect outdated software, misconfigurations, and exposed services.

• Tools:

  • Nessus

  • OpenVAS

  • Qualys

• Use Cases:

  • Monthly security checks on infrastructure

  • Preparing for compliance audits

  • Asset discovery and risk baseline

Penetration Testing (Pentesting)

Ethical hacking method where testers simulate real attacks to exploit vulnerabilities. Involves manual and automated techniques; can be black-box, white-box, or gray-box.

• Tools:

  • Metasploit

  • Burp Suite

  • Nmap

• Use Cases:

  • Test web applications before deployment

  • Assess internal network security

  • Evaluate response of security controls

Security Auditing

Formal review of system configurations, policies, and practices against security standards. Focuses on compliance, documentation, and procedural integrity.

• Tools:

  • Lynis (for Linux)

  • CIS-CAT

  • Manual policy checks

• Use Cases:

  • Compliance with HIPAA, PCI-DSS, ISO 27001

  • Internal IT governance reviews

  • Third-party security evaluations

Risk Assessment

Identifying potential threats, vulnerabilities, and the impact of risks on assets. Not a technical test, but a strategic analysis and prioritization process.

• Tools:

  • OCTAVE

  • FAIR

  • Microsoft Threat Modeling Tool

• Use Cases:

  • Prioritize investment in controls

  • Create business continuity plans

  • Understand organization-wide threat exposure

Security Posture Assessment

Holistic analysis of an organization’s current security strength. Combines elements of audits, pentests, risk assessments, and social engineering.

• Tools:

  • Custom framework using multiple tools (SIEM, vulnerability scanners, pentesting kits)

• Use Cases:

  • Executive-level reporting

  • Benchmarking security improvements

  • Mergers and acquisitions security checks

Static Application Security Testing (SAST)

Analyzes source code or binaries for vulnerabilities without executing the application. Integrated into the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC); ideal for early bug detection.

• Tools:

  • SonarQube

  • Checkmarx

  • Fortify

• Use Cases:

  • CI/CD pipeline integration

  • Secure coding practices

  • Early detection of logic flaws or insecure code

Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST)

Tests applications in real-time to find security issues while the app is running. Black-box approach that doesn’t require source code access.

• Tools:

  • OWASP ZAP

  • Burp Suite (Pro)

  • Acunetix

• Use Cases:

  • Live website/app testing for OWASP Top 10 flaws

  • QA phase security verification

  • Cloud-based app scanning

Fuzz Testing (Fuzzing)

Bombards software with random or malformed data to find crashes, bugs, and unexpected behavior. Often used to test parsers, protocols, and input handling in software.

• Tools:

  • AFL (American Fuzzy Lop)

  • Peach Fuzzer

  • Boofuzz

• Use Cases:

  • Discover memory corruption vulnerabilities

  • Test custom protocols or file parsers

  • Secure embedded or IoT devices