What does a penetration test simulate?

A penetration test is designed to simulate an attack on a network or system. The primary goal of this type of testing is to identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious actors. By mimicking the techniques and methods that real attackers might use, penetration tests help organizations assess the security posture of their systems and understand where weaknesses exist.

This simulation allows security professionals to evaluate the effectiveness of existing security measures, determine how easily an unauthorized user could gain access to sensitive information, and prioritize remediation efforts for the most critical vulnerabilities identified during the test.

In contrast to the other options, which either focus on user experience, specific processes, or general audits, a penetration test is specifically crafted to uncover security flaws by engaging in simulated attacks, providing valuable insights into potential security risks and helping organizations bolster their defenses against actual threats.