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Penetration testing, or ethical hacking, evaluates application security by trying to exploit vulnerabilities. It simulates attacks to identify weaknesses in systems, networks, or applications before real attackers find and exploit them. The primary goal is to identify exploitable vulnerabilities and recommend security measures to mitigate risks.
These tests provide insights into the security posture of an application, helping organizations strengthen their defenses against potential breaches. Penetration testing is a critical component of modern cybersecurity strategies, but can also represent a sizable expense.
We’ll cover factors affecting penetration testing costs, typical range of costs for different types of tests, and the advent of penetration as a testing (PTaaS) services which can dramatically drive down pentesting costs.
There are several factors that contribute to the cost of pentesting, which organizations must consider when planning their security budgets.
The scope and complexity of a penetration test are major cost drivers. Scope refers to the boundaries of what will be tested—whether it’s a single application, a subset of systems, or an entire network infrastructure. A narrow scope typically reduces the effort required, making the test less expensive. Broad scopes, such as testing a global organization’s interconnected systems, significantly increase the workload.
Complexity arises from factors such as the number of assets to be tested, their configurations, and the potential challenges involved in accessing them. For example, testing a simple static website is less complex than testing a hybrid cloud environment with numerous interdependent systems and interactive JavaScript elements.
Tests involving complex application logic, multiple APIs, or specialized technologies like IoT devices often require more expertise, time, and tools, which increases costs. The type of testing methodology—such as black-box (external view), white-box (full access), or gray-box (partial access)—also contributes to the level of complexity and the resulting cost.
The type of penetration test performed can significantly impact the overall cost. Common types include network penetration testing, web application testing, mobile application testing, physical security assessments, and social engineering tests. Each type varies in scope, methodologies, and resource requirements.
Network penetration tests typically focus on identifying vulnerabilities within internal or external networks, such as open ports, misconfigured firewalls, and unpatched systems. These tests can be relatively straightforward compared to others. Web application testing often requires a deeper dive into the application’s functionality, including analysis of business logic flaws, SQL injection, and cross-site scripting vulnerabilities.
Mobile application penetration testing adds complexity because it requires expertise in platform-specific vulnerabilities (e.g., Android vs. iOS), testing APIs, and analyzing mobile app behavior. Social engineering tests, such as phishing campaigns or physical security evaluations, introduce a human element and require specialized strategies to simulate real-world attacks.
The choice of tools used in a penetration test plays an essential role in determining the cost. Many penetration testers rely on a mix of open-source and commercial tools. Open-source tools are freely available and widely used for tasks like network scanning, vulnerability identification, and exploitation. However, they require significant manual effort to configure and operate.
Commercial tools offer enhanced capabilities, such as automated vulnerability scanning, advanced reporting, and support for compliance standards. These tools come with licensing fees that are often passed on to the client. For larger or more complex environments, testers may also use specialized tools for cloud security assessments, database testing, or API analysis.
The use of premium tools ensures thorough testing and reliable results, but it adds to the overall cost of the service. Additionally, the skill level required to use these tools effectively can further influence pricing, as experienced testers are needed to interpret the results accurately.
The experience and expertise of the penetration tester are critical factors in determining the cost of a test. More experienced professionals are generally more adept at uncovering vulnerabilities, especially complex ones that automated tools might miss. They are also better equipped to simulate advanced attack scenarios.
Penetration testers with industry-recognized certifications, such as OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional), CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), or CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), often command higher fees. These certifications demonstrate a high level of knowledge and practical expertise in security testing.
Additionally, testers who specialize in specific industries—such as finance, healthcare, or government—may charge more due to their familiarity with the unique compliance and security challenges of those sectors. Firms that employ teams of highly skilled testers may also charge a premium.
Compliance with industry regulations often requires additional effort during a penetration test, driving up costs. Many organizations need to adhere to industry standards, such as PCI DSS for payment card data, HIPAA for healthcare information, or ISO 27001 for general information security management.
These frameworks often require tests to follow strict guidelines and include detailed documentation to meet audit requirements. For example, PCI DSS requires that penetration tests cover both internal and external systems, with focus areas such as network segmentation and data protection.
Meeting such requirements often involves more in-depth testing and detailed reporting, which increases the time and effort involved. Organizations in regulated industries, such as financial services or healthcare, may also require additional testing to ensure compliance with privacy laws like GDPR or CCPA. The need for compliance can also extend to selecting tools, methodologies, and reporting formats.
Many penetration testing engagements now include support for remediation and retesting as part of the overall service offering. This ensures that identified vulnerabilities are properly addressed and that the fixes are effective. However, this additional phase can add to the total cost.
Remediation support involves providing detailed guidance to help the organization address the issues identified during testing. This may include consultations, follow-up meetings, and advice on implementing patches or configuration changes. Retesting involves a second round of testing to confirm that identified vulnerabilities have been resolved without introducing new issues.
The cost of remediation and retesting varies depending on the complexity of the fixes and the number of vulnerabilities to be re-evaluated. While some organizations may opt to handle remediation in-house, having the penetration testing team validate the fixes can provide assurance that the systems are secure.
The reputation and location of the vendor performing the penetration test can significantly impact costs. Well-established vendors with a strong track record of delivering high-quality testing services often charge a premium. These vendors usually have teams of experienced professionals, advanced tools, and established methodologies.
The geographical location of the vendor also plays a role in determining cost. Vendors based in regions with high labor costs, such as North America or Western Europe, typically charge more than those operating in areas with lower costs of living. However, vendors with less experience or fewer resources may not deliver the same level of thoroughness or accuracy.
Related content: Read our guide to external attack surface management.
The cost of penetration testing varies significantly based on the factors listed above. Below are approximate cost ranges for different types of penetration testing:
These figures are general estimates; actual costs can vary based on project requirements, the testing provider's pricing model, and additional services such as remediation support or retesting.
Rob Gurzeev, CEO and Co-Founder of CyCognito, has led the development of offensive security solutions for both the private sector and intelligence agencies.
In my experience, here are tips that can help you better understand and manage penetration testing costs::
Download this white paper to uncover the challenges with pen testing in reducing external risk, how automation can help pen testers and red teams work more efficiently, and how CyCognito can add value.
Fixed-price services offer a pre-determined cost for a defined scope of work. This model is advantageous for organizations with well-defined testing requirements, providing budget predictability and straightforward cost management. It is ideal for standard tests where testing parameters and deliverables are clear.
However, fixed-price models can lead to incomplete testing if unexpected complexities arise during the assessment. Organizations should clearly define parameters and expectations to ensure evaluations that align with security objectives while adhering to budget constraints.
Time and materials pricing models charge based on the tester's time and the resources used during the assessment. This model is suitable for complex or evolving projects where testing requirements might change. It provides flexibility and adjusts to project needs effectively.
While this approach offers adaptability, it can lead to increased unpredictability in costs. Organizations must monitor project progress closely to prevent budget overruns. Effective project management and clear communication with testers are vital for optimizing results and maintaining cost control.
Bundled services combine various testing activities at a discounted rate. This model offers cost savings for organizations requiring multiple types of tests or repeated assessments. It provides the advantage of coverage within a single contracted service package.
While bundled services can be cost-effective, they require thorough evaluation to ensure that included services align with the organization's security goals. It's essential to assess whether the bundled activities meet current needs without compromising on quality or scope to maximize the cost benefits.
There are also several unforeseen or hidden costs that may add less obvious expenses to an organization’s penetration testing initiative.
Internal labor costs, often overlooked, contribute to overall penetration testing expenses. Involvement of in-house IT and security teams in preparing environments, coordinating tests, and addressing identified vulnerabilities adds to the indirect costs for the organization.
These internal efforts can significantly impact expense estimations. Organizations should account for internal manpower needs during budgeting, ensuring that adequate resources are allocated to collaboration with external testers and handling identified remediation work.
Penetration testing can result in downtime or disruptions to normal operations, especially during aggressive or intrusive assessments. Organizations must prepare for potential interruptions, affecting both productivity and revenue.
Properly scheduling tests during off-peak hours and communicating with all stakeholders minimizes operational impact. Mitigating downtime costs requires strategic planning and clear communication to balance thorough testing with business continuity.
Post-test remediation expenses are incurred when addressing the vulnerabilities identified during testing. Implementing recommended security measures demands additional resources, time, and potential hardware or software investments.
Remediation is essential to improve security and prevent breaches, yet its costs can escalate if vulnerabilities are extensive or complex. Planning for post-test remediation includes budgeting for required fixes and potential retesting to ensure that vulnerabilities have been adequately addressed.
Another hidden cost of penetration testing arises from infrequent or irregular testing, which can leave certain assets inadequately assessed. When tests are conducted too far apart, new vulnerabilities introduced through updates, system changes, or emerging threats may remain undetected.
Over time, this gap in coverage increases the risk of exploitation, potentially resulting in costly breaches. For example, organizations that only perform annual tests may miss vulnerabilities introduced by software patches or new integrations implemented throughout the year. As threat actors refine their methods, older testing approaches may fail to detect newer vectors.
Penetration Testing as a Service (PTaaS) introduces a subscription-based approach to penetration testing, offering several benefits that significantly reduce costs compared to traditional methods.
PTaaS models typically operate on a recurring subscription fee, which makes budgeting more predictable. Organizations can choose subscription tiers that align with their needs, such as the number of tests or assets covered. This scalability allows companies to control costs by adjusting their plan as requirements evolve.
Unlike traditional penetration testing, which often involves high one-time fees for individual tests, PTaaS spreads costs over time. This approach reduces the financial burden of large upfront expenses and enables continuous security testing at a manageable cost.
PTaaS platforms support ongoing testing, providing organizations with real-time vulnerability identification and remediation guidance. This continuous approach reduces the hidden costs of infrequent testing, such as undetected vulnerabilities or delayed risk mitigation.
Proactively addressing security gaps helps avoid the higher costs of breaches or emergency fixes. Although the subscription fees may appear higher over time compared to one-off tests, the improved security posture and reduced risk of exploitation often justify the expense.
PTaaS solutions automate much of the testing processes, reducing reliance on manual labor and associated costs. Human security experts are still involved to evaluate test results and carry out advanced attack simulations.
Additionally, PTaaS platforms integrate with DevOps pipelines and security tools, enabling efficient workflows that lower operational costs. However, the initial investment in setting up PTaaS may require upfront costs for integration and onboarding, especially for organizations with complex environments.
Many PTaaS providers include value-added features, such as dashboards for tracking vulnerabilities, compliance reporting, and prioritized remediation recommendations. These features reduce the need for separate reporting or management tools, consolidating costs under a single service.
Some PTaaS plans include remediation support or retesting within the subscription, eliminating the need for additional engagements. PTaaS can significantly optimize penetration testing costs while improving security coverage, especially for organizations seeking continuous and adaptive testing solutions.
CyCognito built its external attack surface management (EASM) and security testing platform to replicate an attacker’s thought processes and workflows.
CyCognito automates the first phase of offensive cyber operation with deep reconnaissance and active security testing. Pen testing and red teaming staff are able to immediately focus on meaningful activities that require human decision.
With CyCognito, your teams have access to:
With CyCognito your offensive security teams can pivot faster to human-led exploitation-based tests:
Learn more about CyCognito automated security testing.
Download this white paper to uncover the challenges with pen testing in reducing external risk, how automation can help pen testers and red teams work more efficiently, and how CyCognito can add value.
CyCognito solves one of the most fundamental business problems in cybersecurity: seeing how attackers view your organization, where they are most likely to break in, what systems and assets are at risk and how you can eliminate the exposure.
Founded by national intelligence agency veterans, CyCognito has a deep understanding of how attackers exploit blind spots and a path of least resistance. Based in Palo Alto, CyCognito serves a number of large enterprises and Fortune 500 organizations, including Colgate-Palmolive, Tesco and many others.
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