Understanding Your Penetration Testing Quote

In today’s interconnected world, the importance of robust cybersecurity measures cannot be overstated. As organizations navigate the ever-evolving threat landscape, the need to identify vulnerabilities and protect internal and external assets is paramount.

One crucial aspect of this defense strategy lies in conducting a penetration test. Penetration testing – often referred to as a pen test – is a critical component of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy.

When hiring a third-party penetration testing provider to conduct pentesting, the first step is to get a penetration testing quote. However, deciphering the cost associated with this vital service can be a challenging task. The costs included in a penetration quote are influenced by a number of factors that can impact the budget, methods, and provider chosen. Understanding the intricacies of a standard penetration testing quote can lead to better outcomes.

In this blog post, we’ll cover the essential elements to understand in the pentesting quote process. We’ll cover the critical role that the pre-scoping process plays in determining the cost of your penetration testing quote, the five factors that influence a pentesting quote today, and what line items, descriptions, and terms and agreements should be included in a modern, thorough penetration testing quote. By understanding these elements, the upcoming engagement will be that much smoother and more likely to stay within scope, and the final report delivered on-time and within budget.

The Critical Role of Scoping

The scoping process plays a crucial role in determining the cost of penetration testing whereas the other processes like which assets to be tested are agreed between the parties. The complexity and size of the scope directly impact the time and resources required for th engagement, ultimately influencing the overall cost. When the scope is broader, with more systems and applications to test, more in-depth testing objectives, and specific constraints.

The costs associated with penetration testing can vary due to the nature of the testing process itself. Penetration testing involves the simulation of real-world cyber-attacks on an organization’s systems, networks, and applications. During these simulations, ethical hackers meticulously analyze the security measures in place and actively attempt to exploit vulnerabilities.

When simulating real-world cyber-attacks on an organization’s systems, networks, and applications, ethical hackers will be performing tests on hundreds, and, sometimes, thousands, of assets to identify vulnerabilities that malicious actors could exploit. These factors will be considered when scoping each penetration test, and they can increase the cost of the pentesting exercise. These costs must be factored into the quote, as it helps establish exactly what is being tested. When testing for security and compliance, it’s also critical to discuss what needs to be tested within each system and across ecosystems. From endpoints to assets to users, organizations can take proactive measures to mitigate risks and fortify their defenses across systems when any or all of these scoping areas and documented in the penetration testing quote.

Penetration Testing Quote

A penetration testing quote, also known as a proposal or estimate, is a document that outlines the scope, objectives, and cost of conducting a penetration test. It serves as a formal agreement between the client and the penetration testing service provider.

When considering penetration testing, there are different types of pentesting quotes available. These quotes are tailored to the specific types of penetration testing – namely internal and external pentest engagements.

Internal Penetration Testing Quote

Internal penetration testing involves conducting tests within your organization’s network environment. Since the testers have prior knowledge and initial access to the system, the scope of engagement is more focused. This targeted approach provides the perspective of the adversary and results in a smaller scope. This subsequently makes the internal penetration testing quote more affordable compared to external tests.

External Penetration Testing Quote

External penetration testing is a comprehensive testing process where testers simulate real-life hackers with no prior knowledge of your systems or access. This type of test aims to assess the vulnerabilities that can be exploited from an external perspective. Testers utilize various techniques, including gathering information from the network and detecting vulnerabilities to launch simulated attacks. Due to the inclusive nature of external tests and their resemblance to actual cyber threats, the external penetration testing quote is typically higher than that of internal tests.

In addition to internal and external testing, there are specific quotes for web application penetration testing, which focuses on identifying vulnerabilities within web applications, and mobile application penetration testing, which targets mobile applications for security assessment.

Each type of penetration testing quote is customized to address the specific requirements and objectives of the respective testing engagement, ensuring a thorough assessment of the designated systems and applications.

5 Factors Influencing Penetration Testing Quotes

Several factors contribute to the cost of a penetration testing quote. Understanding these factors will enable you to assess the value you receive from any pen test and make an informed decision for your organization’s security and compliance requirements. The following are some key considerations.

1. Scope and Complexity
The most important step in the quoting process is the scoping step. The size and complexity of your organization’s infrastructure and the extent of the penetration test required will significantly impact the cost. Larger networks or intricate systems will generally require more time and effort to test thoroughly. Assets can number in the 100s, 1000s, and 10000s, depending upon the type of test and size of the system being tested.

2. Testing Methodologies
Penetration testing methodologies (black box, white box, gray box) and adherence to industry frameworks like OWASP and OSSTMM affect the depth of analysis and cost. Black box tests simulate external attacks, white box tests utilize full knowledge, and gray box tests strike a balance. Following OWASP and OSSTMM ensures a systematic approach. The chosen methodology and industry standards impact the cost, aligning testing goals with organizational needs for accurate security assessment and risk mitigation.
3. Industry Compliance
Compliance standards like PCI DSS and HIPAA are crucial for regulated industries. Adhering to these standards can impact the complexity, scope, and cost of penetration testing. Additionally, compliance requirements such as ISO 27001 and SOC 2 Auditing can be intricate and may necessitate multiple engagements to ensure compliance readiness. Consideration of these compliance factors is essential in determining the extent and cost of penetration testing engagements for organizations operating in regulated industries.
4. Reporting and Analysis
The deliverables offered by a penetration testing company impact the overall cost. Comprehensive reports, actionable recommendations, and in-depth analysis provide value and contribute to improving cyber resilience. Advanced features like a client portal, integration with DevSecOps workflows, and the option for retesting are high-value considerations that leading providers may include in their services, potentially influencing the final quote. These deliverables ensure that organizations receive not only the assessment results but also the necessary tools and support to address identified vulnerabilities effectively.
5. Assessing the Value
When considering the cost of penetration testing, it’s crucial to focus on the value it provides to your organization. A successful pen test not only identifies vulnerabilities, it also empowers you to enable your teams to strengthen your organization’s security posture. By investing in regular pen tests, you can identify weaknesses before malicious actors do, reducing the risk of costly data breaches, downtime, and brand damage.

What’s Included in a Penetration Testing Quote

A good penetration testing quote should include the scope of the test with the proper timeline. Also, there must be the expected deliverables and recommendations for remediation. Additionally, it’s crucial to include the following elements to finalize a penetration testing quote.

Pricing and Cost Breakdown

The quote should provide a detailed breakdown of the pricing structure, clearly stating the total cost of the penetration testing engagement. It should outline any additional fees for specialized tools or resources and mention any discounts or package options available. Return to scoping step if out of budget.

Terms and Conditions

Look for any specific terms and conditions mentioned in the quote. These may include contractual obligations, confidentiality agreements, liability limitations, and any legal or compliance requirements that need to be followed during the pentesting process.

Communication and Reporting

The quote should mention the expected communication channels and frequency of updates between the penetration testing team and yourself. It should clarify the format and delivery method of the final report, as well as any interim progress reports that will be provided.

Post-Engagement Support

Consider whether the quote includes information about any post-engagement support that will be provided. This can involve assistance with vulnerability remediation, clarification of findings, or addressing any questions or concerns that may arise after the testing is completed.

Acceptance and Agreement

Look for a section in the quote where you can provide your acceptance and agreement to proceed with the penetration testing engagement. This section serves as your commitment to the process and finalizes the contractual aspect of the quote.

By ensuring that these elements are included in the penetration testing quote you receive, you can have a clear understanding of the engagement scope, deliverables, pricing, and terms. This will help ensure a successful and satisfactory penetration testing experience.

Understand Every Pentesting Quote with BreachLock

A penetration testing quote is not simply an expense; instead, a pen test represents an investment in fortifying your organization against cyber threats. As the famous saying goes, “The cost of a successful attack can be devastating, but the cost of prevention is priceless.”

At BreachLock, we understand how to provide our clients with accurate penetration testing quotes to best reflect the investment they are making. By proactively identifying vulnerabilities through comprehensive penetration testing, we mitigate risks and minimize financial and reputational damage. While cost matters, BreachLock strikes a balance between affordability and quality, offering transparent pricing structures and prioritizing thorough testing methodologies that are proven to fortify your organization against cyber threats.

The experts at BreachLock will go line by line with you to understand every cost in your quote (estimate), to ensure a successful engagement. With meticulous attention to scoping details, you’ll have the assurance that your penetration test will be conducted on time, within scope and within your budget. Schedule a discovery call to get your quote today.

FAQ

1. How is the cost of penetration testing determined?
   The cost of penetration testing is typically determined based on factors such as the scope and complexity of the testing, the size of the network or applications being assessed, the level of expertise required, and the duration of the engagement. Additionally, specialized testing requirements, such as compliance regulations or specific industry standards, may influence the pricing.
2. How long does it take for BreachLock to start the process after the penetration testing quote has been approved?
   After the quote is approved by the client, BreachLock’s efficient operational procedures ensure a swift start to the penetration testing process. Our in-house experts will initiate testing within one business day based on the agreed scope.
3. Are there any additional fees or costs associated with penetration testing?
   Additional fees may be incurred for specific requirements such as the use of specialized tools, travel expenses if onsite testing is required, or the need for dedicated resources or experts. It is important to clarify these potential additional costs during the scoping process to ensure transparency.
4. Can the cost of penetration testing vary based on the industry or organization size?
   Yes, the cost of penetration testing can vary based on factors, such as the industry in which the organization operates and the size of the organization. Different industries may have specific compliance requirements (like HIPAA Security Rule or PCI DSS 4.0) or unique security challenges that can influence the pricing. Similarly, larger organizations with complex networks and multiple applications may require more extensive testing that can impact the overall cost.
5. What deliverables can I expect from a penetration testing engagement?
   Typical deliverables from a penetration testing engagement include a comprehensive report highlighting identified vulnerabilities, their potential impact, and recommendations for remediation. The report may also include technical details, risk prioritization, and actionable steps to address the identified vulnerabilities. Additionally, some providers may offer post-engagement support or assistance in implementing the recommended remediation measures.
6. Can penetration testing help save costs in the long run?
   The answer is yes. Penetration testing helps identify and address vulnerabilities proactively, preventing potential expensive security breaches and the costs associated with financial and reputational damages. By investing in penetration testing, organizations can strengthen their security defenses, reduce the risk of successful attacks, and potentially avoid costly incident response, legal penalties, and regulatory fines that may arise from security breaches and fines for non-compliance.