1.1 Different types of cyber security testing

Different Types of Cyber Security Testing

Imagine your computer or network is like a castle, and there are different ways to check if the walls and gates are strong enough to keep out invaders. Here's how experts do it:

1. Vulnerability Scanning

This is like using a magic telescope that can see through the castle walls to find cracks or weak spots. It's a tool that automatically looks for places where attackers could break in. This could be through windows left open (like weak passwords) or bricks missing from the wall (like outdated software).

2. Security Scanning

This is a bit like having both a magic telescope and a team of expert builders who check the castle walls and doors both from the inside and outside. They use tools and their skills to find any weak points or places where the gate might not close properly, making sure everything is secure. They can do this check-up once or keep coming back regularly.

3. Penetration Testing (Pen Testing)

Think of this as playing a friendly game of attack and defend. Some trusted knights pretend to be invaders and try to get into the castle. They use different strategies to see if they can find a way in. This helps the real defenders understand where they need to strengthen their defenses. There are two main games they play: one focuses on finding weak spots in the castle walls and doors (like software or hardware issues), and the other is more about how the people inside the castle react to an attack.

4. Social Engineering Testing

This test is more about the people inside the castle than the walls themselves. It's like checking if the guards and townsfolk can be tricked into opening the gate for someone they think is a friend but is actually an enemy in disguise. Testers might try to get in by pretending they're delivering a message from the king or by convincing someone to show them a secret entrance.

5. Ethical Hacking/Red Teaming

This is when a group of expert attackers (but the good guys) try their best to break into the castle, using all the tricks and tools a real enemy would use. The difference is, they've agreed on some rules with the castle owners first. This helps everyone see how well the castle can withstand an attack and how good the defenders are at responding.

Each of these tests is chosen based on what the castle (in this case, the computer or network) needs, how it's built, and what kinds of threats it might face. They help make sure the castle is as strong as it can be, ready to keep out invaders and protect everyone inside.