Security testing, also known as “pentesting,” is a crucial process undertaken by ethical hackers to identify and rectify security vulnerabilities. Automated tools now play a significant role in the continuous maintenance of pentesting, enabling round-the-clock vulnerability scanning. In this article, we delve into the features, advantages, and disadvantages of the six prominent security testing firms to assist you in selecting the ideal option for your business and financial plan.
Comparison of Top Security Testing Firms
Aside from costs, several other aspects should be evaluated when picking the finest security testing firm for your requirements. Here are some critical criteria to explore:
| Commencing price | Testing capacity | Logging scan | Regulatory compliance | Professional remedies | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Astra Security | $1,999 annually | Web and mobile apps, cloud systems, APIs, networks | Yes | PCI-DSS, HIPAA, SOC2, ISO 27001 | Yes |
| Intruder | $157 monthly (billed yearly) | Websites, servers, cloud | Yes | PCI-DSS, HIPAA, SOC2, ISO 27001 | No |
| Cobalt | TBA | Web and mobile apps, APIs, networks, cloud | No | SOC2, PCI-DSS, HIPAA, ISO 27001, CREST, NEST | Yes |
| Acunetix | TBA | Web applications | Yes | OWASP, ISO 27001, PCI-DSS, HIPAA | Yes |
| Invicti | TBA | Web apps, APIs | Yes | OWASP, ISO 27001, PCI-DSS, HIPAA | Yes |
| Breachlock | $2,000 one-time fee | Web applications, cloud, networks | Yes | SOC 2, PCI DSS, HIPAA, ISO 27001, NIST, CREST, GDPR | Yes |
The Superior Choice – Astra Security
Astra Security presents a diverse array of security testing solutions catering to various requirements, from web and mobile applications to cloud security infrastructure, APIs, and networks. It boasts a vulnerability scanner with over 8,000 tests and the capability to scan through authenticated pages. Small businesses can opt for individual scanners and tests based on transparent pricing, while larger enterprises can select bundled enterprise packages or request personalized quotes for specific services.
SEE: Understanding Cloud Security Testing Importance (TechRepublic)
Reasons for Selecting Astra Security
The decision to opt for Astra Security was driven by its extensive testing capacity compared to other security testing firms considered. With a wide range of services, Astra Security accommodates both startups requiring a single target test and large corporations protecting a diverse infrastructure.
Pricing Details
- Webapp
- Scanner: $1,999 per annum or $199 monthly for 1 target.
- Pentest: $5,999 per annum for 1 target.
- Enterprise: Starting at $9,999 per annum for multiple targets across various asset types.
- Mobile application
- Pentest: $2,499 per annum for 1 target.
- Enterprise: Commences at $3,999 for 1 target.
- Cloud safety
- Basic: Reach out to sales for a quotation.
- Elite: Reach out to sales for a quotation.
Characteristics
- AI and ML technologies assist in test automation.
- Over 8,000 tests can be executed by the vulnerability scanner.
- Valid pentest certificates can be publicly verified.
- Capable of scanning pages that require login credentials.
Advantages and drawbacks
| Advantages | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
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Intruder: Optimal for vulnerability scanning
Besides continuous pentesting services, Intruder leverages automation to provide external and internal vulnerability scanning around the clock. This strategy aids clients in discovering and resolving critical vulnerabilities, even before the next scheduled pentest. If you require vulnerability scanning along with pentesting, Intruder offers both services under one roof.
Reasons for Choosing Intruder
I picked Intruder for its reasonably priced internal and external vulnerability scanning tools. Note that the Premium plan is necessary for adding the continuous penetration testing tool. I also liked the 14-day trial provided by Intruder and its integrations with popular platforms like Slack and GitHub.
Pricing
- Essential: Starting at $157 per month billed annually or $174 per month billed monthly for 1 application and 1 target.
- Pro: Starting at $221 per month billed annually or $284 per month billed monthly for 1 application and 1 target. A 14-day free trial is included.
- Premium: Request a personalized quote from sales.
Characteristics
- Add targets via physical locations, IP addresses, or cloud integration.
- Always prepared compliance reports for audits.
- Schedule diverse scans and tailor parameters based on business priorities.
- Rapid response times ensured by continuous pentesting.
Advantages and drawbacks
| Advantages | Drawbacks |
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Cobalt.io: Ideal for instantaneous security testing
Cobalt adopts a Pentest-as-a-Service concept, offering on-demand security testing to businesses when required. Depending on the chosen subscription and the nature of the testing project, Cobalt can sometimes commence testing within just 1-3 business days. Its adaptable, credit-based system enables each organization to allocate work based on their business priorities or asset complexities (credits are procured in annual bundles).
Factors Influencing My Choice of Cobalt.io
I selected Cobalt due to its prompt response times and versatile pricing strategy. This distinctive approach helps companies save valuable time and resources, a significant advantage considering the typically lengthy and expensive nature of security testing. For urgent security testing needs, Cobalt.io is a security testing service that deserves attention.
Subscription Pricing
Cobalt.io provides three subscription tiers — Basic, Premium, and Elite — without specifically disclosing the costs or credit allocations per tier. To obtain pricing specifics, reach out to the sales team for a customized quote.
Characteristics
- Assessments are compliant with numerous industry standards.
- Specialized teams are assembled from a pool of over 400 security specialists based on each client’s requirements.
- Both pre-set and customizable reporting choices are accessible.
- Complimentary retesting is included in all subscriptions.
Advantages and disadvantages
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Acunetix: Optimal for petite enterprises
Acunetix, a web application security solution under the ownership of Invicti, is tailored for small enterprises that do not require the advanced features of enterprise-level security testing. Designed for web applications, Acunetix cannot be utilized for testing other infrastructures like networks and APIs. Acunetix’s vulnerability scanner can identify over 7,000 web vulnerabilities, combining DAST and IAST scan outcomes for comprehensive reporting.
Reasons for Selecting Acunetix
I opted for Acunetix due to its automated security testing, aiding small enterprises in swiftly uncovering numerous potential vulnerabilities. The platform’s inclusion of unlimited users and scans at a fixed cost, instead of charging per user or scan, alleviates financial and operational burden on smaller companies.
Subscription Pricing
Acunetix does not reveal specific pricing details; therefore, contacting the sales team for a customized quote is necessary.
Characteristics
- Vulnerability reports ordered by severity.
- Detects over 7,000 types of web vulnerabilities.
- Scheduling options for one-time or recurring scans.
- Capability to scan multiple environments simultaneously.
Advantages and disadvantages
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
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Invicti: Best suited for big corporations and enterprises
Invicti (previously known as Netsparker) closely resembles Acunetix but is tailored for large corporations and enterprises rather than small enterprises. Invicti’s evidence-based scanner utilizes automation to rapidly detect vulnerabilities and provide actionable insights. Invicti’s automated processes and scalability enable enterprise cybersecurity teams to safeguard hundreds or even thousands of websites concurrently.
Reasons for selecting Invicti
I opted for Invicti due to its automated vulnerability scanner that is explicitly designed to meet the requirements and scale of large enterprises. I also appreciate its broad range of integrations, linking with many popular developer and communication tools.
Pricing
Invicti pricing details are not openly disclosed – reach out to the sales team for a quotation.
Characteristics
- Availability of both on-premise and on-demand deployment choices.
- Guidance and training support during onboarding.
- Diverse support choices.
- Advanced scanning manual toolkit.
Pros and cons
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
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BreachLock: Most suitable for adaptable pentesting alternatives
BreachLock offers three different pentesting frequencies to pick from, enabling you to choose the option that best suits your company. Opt for either one-time security validation, yearly security validation, or continuous security validation based on your requirements. All three types of tests are conducted in-house by BreachLock’s pentesting squad and include limitless online remediation assistance as well as audit-ready reports.
Reasons for selecting BreachLock
I chose BreachLock because of the diverse pentesting options it offers, making it one of the most flexible penetration testing companies around. I also value its transparent pricing structure that clearly outlineswith each of the diverse penetration testing packages to determine the service level you will receive.
Pricing
- Single Security Validation: Starting from $2,000 per engagement.
- Yearly Security Validation: Commences at $5,000 per annum.
- Ongoing Security Validation: Reach out to our sales team for a personalized quote.
Cost
- Complimentary manual re-tests included in all plans.
- Designated project coordinator for Yearly and Ongoing plans.
- Premium onboarding and setup assistance available.
- Endless online remediation guidance.
Advantages and disadvantages
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How to select the most suitable penetration testing provider for my organization
When opting for a penetration testing provider, first identify your preferred form of assistance. Determine if you require automated scanning, manual testing, or both. Compile a list of all targets, applications, and types of assets that necessitate evaluation. Consider the frequency of pentesting you desire: Are you seeking a one-time assessment or continuous monitoring of your entire infrastructure?
EXPLORE: Guidance on Conducting a Cybersecurity Risk Assessment in 5 Steps (TechRepublic Premium)
Once you establish these criteria, approach your preferred options to gather pricing estimates. Many pentesting providers adopt a quote-based pricing model due to the unique nature of each engagement. Their sales team engages in comprehensive discussions with you regarding your requirements and budget to formulate a tailored quote. Additionally, some providers may offer a trial or demo of their vulnerability scanning tools.
After evaluating your top choices and receiving quotes, finalize your selection of the best penetration testing provider for your organization. If undecided, consider engaging in a scope-limited project with the company for a brief period to observe their functionality before committing to an annual contract immediately.
Approach
To identify the top penetration testing providers, I reviewed service documentation and client feedback. Throughout this assessment, I evaluated aspects like pentest capacity, compliance adherence, and expert remediation services. Additional considerations included pricing structure, customer support quality, and turnaround time.
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