Security testing is a type of software testing that checks whether the software is vulnerable to cyberattacks, and what effects malicious or unexpected inputs have on the system. Security testing is a process that evaluates the security of the system and finds the potential vulnerabilities, threats, and risks to its security. Security testing is an essential phase in the software development life cycle (SDLC) and is used to prevent attacks in the real world. Security testing is a form of non-functional testing, which means it focuses on how the software is designed and configured, rather than what it does.
Why Security Testing is Important?
The main goal of security testing is to identify the threats in the system and measure its potential vulnerabilities, so the threats can be encountered, and the system does not stop functioning or cannot be exploited. Security testing is important because it:
- Protects the data and information of the users/organization from unauthorized access.
- Ensures that the software meets the security requirements and also it complies with the standards and regulations.
- Enhances the quality, reliability, and performance.
- Builds trust and confidence.
- Reduces the cost of maintenance and repair.
Types of Security Testing
- Vulnerability Scanning: This is done through automated software to scan a system against known vulnerability signatures.
- Security Scanning: It involves identifying network and system weaknesses, and later provides solutions for reducing these risks.
- Penetration Testing: This kind of testing simulates an attack from a malicious hacker.
- Risk Assessment: This testing involves analysis of security risks observed in the organization
- Security Auditing: This is an internal inspection of applications and operating systems for security flaws.
- Ethical Hacking: It’s hacking an organization’s software systems.
- Posture Assessment: This combines security scanning, ethical hacking, and risk assessments to show an overall security posture.
