As we move into 2024, the need for robust cybersecurity measures is more critical than ever. Penetration testing, also known as pen testing, is one of the best ways to identify and fix security weaknesses before they can be exploited by malicious hackers. With the market for penetration testing expected to grow significantly, it’s essential to know which service providers stand out. Here are the top penetration testing service providers to watch in 2024.
Key Takeaways
- BreachLock combines AI with human expertise to offer comprehensive penetration testing services.
- Astra Pentest provides extensive vulnerability coverage and is used by over 650 engineering teams.
- Intruder offers a user-friendly platform with automated scanning and flexible reporting options.
- Raxis provides real-time insights and fast turnaround times with their PTaaS solution.
- Cobalt offers a dashboard-driven platform with detailed findings and remediation guidance.
1. BreachLock
BreachLock offers a Penetration Testing as a Service (PTaaS) platform that provides an innovative approach to delivering on-demand researchers who are experienced and certified by CREST, OSCP, OSCE, CEH, CISA, CISM, SANS, and many more.
Features
- Compliant with PCI DSS, HIPAA, and GDPR regulations.
- Provides penetration testing services for web and mobile applications, networks, third-party security, cloud, and social engineering.
- Offers an experienced and certified team of in-house security researchers.
- Uses industry-standard methodology to ensure quality assurance and high-quality results.
- Includes web vulnerability scanning as well as vulnerability assessments.
- Provides continuous vulnerability scanning, monthly reports, and manual tests.
Company Background
- Founded In: 2019
- Headquarters: New York
- No. of Employees: 51-200
- Locations: New York, Wilmington, London, and Amsterdam
- Revenue: Generates $6.9M in revenue
- Clients: Conteneo, Fond, Brainfights Inc., Netlink, MobiChord, and more
Pros
- Simple to use
- Provides a detailed picture of vulnerabilities
- Delivers testing reports within a secure range
Cons
- Improvements in customer service are advisable
Verdict
BreachLock was awarded industry innovator by SC in 2019, Security leaders by MR Visionary in 2019, and Top 10 most promising cybersecurity by CIO Review. It is best for its comprehensive, full-stack pen testing and security testing for regulatory compliance, including GDPR, PCI DSS, HIPAA, and Third Party Vendor Assessment.
Pricing
Contact for pricing.
2. Astra Pentest
Astra Pentest is a top choice for businesses looking to secure their digital assets. Founded in 2018 and based in Delaware, USA, Astra Pentest offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to identify and fix hard-to-detect vulnerabilities. Its user-friendly dashboard ensures seamless collaboration and provides detailed action steps to remediate detected issues.
Key Features
- Vulnerability Scanner
- Manual Penetration Testing
- Over 8000 tests
- Compliance with HIPAA and GDPR
- Scans logged-in pages
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- Seamless integration
- Custom and flexible pricing
Cons
- Customer support could be more responsive
Pricing
| Plan | Web App Price | Mobile App Price |
|---|---|---|
| Scanner | $1999/year | – |
| Pentest | $5999/year | $2499/year |
| Enterprise | $9999/year | $3999/year |
Astra Pentest is trusted by major clients like Tata, Stake, Facebook, and GoDaddy. The platform’s intelligent scanner can find issues that many tools miss, making it a reliable choice for businesses aiming to stay ahead of potential threats.
3. Intruder
Intruder is a cloud-based vulnerability scanner and management platform that helps organizations find and fix security weaknesses in their internet-facing systems. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in London, UK, Intruder serves a wide range of clients, from startups to large enterprises.
Features and Services
- Automated scanning tools for web applications, APIs, and other internet-facing systems.
- An intuitive dashboard for viewing and managing vulnerabilities.
- Manual penetration testing services.
- Reporting features for compliance with regulations like PCI DSS, HIPAA, and GDPR.
Clients
Intruder’s platform is used by various industries, including financial services, healthcare, technology, and retail. Some notable clients include Litmus and Ometria.
Pricing
- A 30-day free trial is available.
- Annual plans start at $1,958.
Intruder’s system is great and gives us great insight into vulnerabilities from our exposed targets. The out-of-band scans are a real benefit.
Intruder is trusted by over 2,000 companies globally, making it a reliable choice for ongoing attack surface monitoring.
4. Raxis
Raxis is a top provider of cybersecurity services, focusing on penetration testing, red teaming, and breach simulations. Founded in 2011 and based in Atlanta, GA, Raxis serves clients worldwide with a fully remote team of certified U.S.-based professionals.
Raxis stands out for its Penetration Testing as a Service (PTaaS) model, offered through the Raxis One console. This service includes two options: Attack and Protect, allowing clients to choose the level of security testing that fits their needs. The PTaaS model is tailored to various industries, such as banking, healthcare, transportation, and retail, providing customized testing scenarios that mimic real-world attacks.
Features
- Based on the MITRE ATT&CK penetration testing framework
- Powered by Raxis One, a secure web interface for all Raxis services
- Meets or exceeds requirements for NIST 800-53, NIST 800-171/CMMC, PCI, HIPAA, GLBA, ISO 27001, and SOX compliance
- Utilizes the same tools and techniques as a blackhat hacker
- Exploitation, pivoting to other in-scope systems, and data exfiltration in scope
- Fully capable of working with cloud providers and content delivery networks such as Amazon AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud, Cloudflare, Akamai, hybrid cloud, and SaaS solutions
- Highly experienced with SCADA, embedded device, and IoT penetration testing
- Remote internal and wireless network penetration testing available with Raxis Transporter
- Offers pre-acquisition and due diligence penetration testing
- Continuous Penetration Testing as a Service (PTaaS) offerings with options to meet your budget
- Executive debrief conference provided, if desired
- Optional re-test to validate remediation
Pros
- Staffed by highly skilled and certified ethical hackers
- High client retention rate and positive testimonials
- Uses cutting-edge technology and methodologies
Cons
- Costs may be higher than other providers with larger, offshore teams
- Penetration testing using real hacking code may cause system outages or performance impacts in rare cases
Raxis is recognized as a sample vendor for Penetration Testing as a Service in two recent Gartner® Hype Cycle™ reports in 2024. This recognition highlights their commitment to innovation and excellence in the cybersecurity field.
5. Cobalt
Cobalt is a leading cybersecurity company based in San Francisco, founded in 2013. It offers a cloud-based platform for ethical hacking and penetration testing, known for its Pentest as a Service (PtaaS) model. This platform leverages a global network of security researchers and combines it with an AI-powered system to provide comprehensive and continuous vulnerability testing for its clients.
Features
- Cobalt’s platform constantly tests web apps, mobile apps, and network infrastructure to find vulnerabilities.
- It uses a worldwide group of security experts to help clients with ethical hacking and penetration testing.
- The platform uses AI to automate and streamline the testing process, reducing the chance of false reports.
- Cobalt provides insights and suggestions to help businesses fix known vulnerabilities.
Services
- Comprehensive penetration testing for web applications, mobile applications, and network infrastructure.
- Vulnerability scanning services using automated tools to identify potential vulnerabilities.
- Managed security services for ongoing security testing and monitoring.
- Application security consulting to help organizations build secure applications and infrastructure.
Clients
- HubSpot
- GoDaddy
- Verifone
- HERE Technologies
- The Washington Post
Pricing
Cobalt offers a free trial and personalized demo. Pricing plans include:
- Standard: $1,500 per credit
- Premium: $1,650 per credit
- Enterprise: Contact for pricing
Cobalt’s penetration testing can help your organization achieve compliance with today’s tougher regulatory requirements. Cobalt’s PtaaS model ensures that your security measures are always up-to-date and effective.
6. Bugcrowd
Bugcrowd is a crowdsourcing platform that helps prevent hackers from entering networks through methods like penetration testing. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in San Francisco, Bugcrowd has a global reach with locations in San Francisco, CA, and Sydney, Australia. The company generates $127.8M in revenue and employs between 201-500 people.
Key Features
- Regulatory Compliance: Bugcrowd complies with regulations such as PCI, NIST, ISO 27001, and CMMC.
- Customizable Testing: You can configure methodologies, duration, and models to fit your needs.
- Transparency: Dashboards, timelines, and analytics ensure full transparency.
- Expert Pen Testers: Access to well-qualified pen testers who deliver high-quality results.
- Incentivized Testing: Maximum risk reduction through incentivized testing models where pen testers are rewarded based on results.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for network, web, API, cloud, mobile, IoT, and social engineering pen testing.
Pros
- Simple, easy-to-use, and intuitive interface.
- Integration with platforms like Slack, Trello, and Jira.
- Trusted by brands like HP, Invision, and Twilio.
Cons
- Provides fewer professional researchers compared to other platforms.
Pricing
Bugcrowd offers various pricing plans categorized as Basic, Standard, Plus, and MAX. For detailed pricing, you need to contact them directly.
Bugcrowd is best for reducing risk, increasing ROI, and highly configurable pen testing. It works in six simple steps: define, connect, prioritize, reward, remediate, and improve.
7. Rapid7
Rapid7 is a well-known cybersecurity company based in Boston, Massachusetts. Founded in 2000, it has grown to employ over 2,000 people worldwide and generates $362.8 million in revenue. Rapid7 offers a variety of services to help organizations detect and respond to cyber threats.
Key Features
- Vulnerability Management: Rapid7’s tools help companies identify and prioritize vulnerabilities in their IT environments.
- User Behavior Analytics: Using machine learning and AI, Rapid7 monitors user activities to detect unusual behaviors that may indicate a security breach.
- Incident Detection and Response: These tools provide real-time visibility into cloud, network, and endpoint activities.
- Managed Services: Rapid7 offers managed security services to enhance organizational security.
Services
- Vulnerability Management Services: These services guide organizations in identifying and prioritizing vulnerabilities, offering remediation strategies and tracking progress over time.
- Application Security Testing: Rapid7 helps identify and fix vulnerabilities in custom or third-party applications.
- Cloud Security Services: These services help secure cloud environments and protect cloud-based assets.
- Compliance Management: Rapid7 assists organizations in meeting compliance requirements such as PCI DSS, HIPAA, and GDPR.
Rapid7’s focus in Q2 2024 is on enhancing visualization, prioritization, and integration capabilities across its key products and services.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Clean and intuitive web interface
- Integration options with leading cybersecurity vendors
- Automation features for faster investigation and response
Cons
- Scans can be time-consuming
- Filtering capabilities need improvement
Pricing
- Vulnerability Risk Management: Starts at $1.90 per month
- Detection and Response: Starts at $5.89 per month
- Web Application Security: Starts at $175 per month
- Cloud Security: Starts at $5,775 per month
Rapid7 is trusted by over 10,000 customers globally, including well-known brands like Hilton, Thermo Fisher, and Revlon. Its automation features make it easier to investigate and respond to threats quickly and intelligently.
8. NetSPI
NetSPI is a leading cybersecurity company that specializes in penetration testing and vulnerability management services. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Minneapolis, NetSPI has grown to serve clients across various industries, including healthcare, retail, banking, and finance.
NetSPI follows the PTaaS delivery model, which enhances reporting with trend analysis and accelerates remediation by integrating with ticketing systems and remediation tools. This model will be demoed at RSAC 2020, showcasing how it enables organizations to keep pace with today’s cybersecurity landscape.
Features and Services
- External and internal network penetration testing
- Web application testing
- Mobile application testing
- Social engineering testing
- Cloud security testing
- Ongoing vulnerability management services
- Compliance with industry and government regulations (PCI DSS, HIPAA, ISO 27001)
- Risk assessments
Products
- Resolve
- NetSPI Labs
- NetSPI Academy
- PenTest360
Clients
- Wells Fargo
- UnitedHealth Group
- Verizon
- Amazon Web Services (AWS)
- The State of Michigan
Pros
- Enhanced reporting
- Continuous scanning
- Risk scoring feature
Cons
- Prices are not disclosed
- No free trial available
NetSPI is best known for its world-class pentest execution and delivery, making it a top choice for organizations looking to strengthen their cybersecurity defenses.
9. CrowdStrike
CrowdStrike is a leading name in the cybersecurity world, known for its cloud-based endpoint protection and advanced threat intelligence. Founded in 2011 by George Kurtz and Dmitri Alperovitch, the company is headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, with offices across the globe.
Services
- Endpoint Protection: Uses machine learning and behavioral analysis to detect and prevent both known and unknown threats.
- Incident Response: A team of experienced security professionals quickly responds to incidents, investigates root causes, and provides recommendations for improving security.
- Threat Intelligence: Offers real-time information on the latest threats and attack techniques, helping organizations stay ahead of the evolving threat landscape.
- Penetration Testing: Simulates cyber attacks to identify vulnerabilities in networks and systems, providing recommendations for improving security.
Key Features
- Ransomware Protection: Detects and mitigates both file-based and fileless ransomware attacks.
- Rich Reporting: Centralized dashboard for detailed analysis of malicious incidents.
- Extended Threat Protection: Multi-stage, layered approach to protect endpoint devices.
- Patch Management: High visibility and control across IT infrastructure to ensure timely patching and compliance.
CrowdStrike’s platform leverages AI and machine learning to provide top-notch security solutions, making it a go-to choice for many organizations.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Easy configuration and integration.
- Real-time visibility of security gaps.
- Uses real-world threat actor tools.
Cons:
- No custom dashboard is provided.
Pricing
- Free trial available.
- Pricing starts at $8.99/month.
CrowdStrike continues to be a top choice for organizations looking to enhance their cybersecurity measures and stay ahead of potential threats.
10. ScienceSoft
ScienceSoft is a well-established player in the cybersecurity and software development industry. Founded in 1989 and headquartered in McKinney, Texas, the company has grown to employ over 684 professionals across various locations, including Texas, Georgia, Latvia, Finland, Lithuania, Poland, and Fujairah. ScienceSoft generates an impressive $166 million in revenue and serves notable clients like eBay, Nestle, Walmart, NASA JPL, and IBM.
ScienceSoft offers a comprehensive range of services, including penetration testing, which is crucial for identifying and mitigating security vulnerabilities. They employ three main methods for penetration testing: white box, black box, and grey box. These methods help in providing a complete view of vulnerabilities, from the most critical to the less significant ones, allowing for prioritized remediation.
Features and Services
- Certified Ethical Hackers
- Penetration testing for network services, web applications, remote access security, social engineering, and physical security
- Compliance with regulations like GLBA, HIPAA, PCI DSS, FISMA/NIST
- Detailed reporting on vulnerabilities to avoid system downtime costs
Pros
- Regulatory compliant
- Uses different vulnerability methods
- Certified hackers are available
Cons
- Pricing is not fully disclosed
ScienceSoft has been recognized as one of the Top 50 Software Testing Companies in The Manifest and Mobile Application Penetration Testing Tools & Service Providers in Software Testing Help. It was also named America’s fastest-growing company in 2022 by Financial Times and Statista and received the Highest Performer award in 2022 by Software Suggest.
ScienceSoft is a top player in the tech world, known for its innovative solutions and expert services. If you’re looking to stay ahead in technology, you should definitely check out what they have to offer. From cybersecurity to software development, ScienceSoft covers it all. Don’t miss out on the latest trends and tools that can help your business grow. Visit our website today to learn more!
Conclusion
In today’s world, where cyber threats are constantly evolving, penetration testing is more important than ever. As we’ve seen, there are many top-notch service providers out there, each offering unique features to help keep your digital assets safe. Whether you need real-time insights, expert testers, or automated solutions, there’s a provider that fits your needs. By choosing the right penetration testing service, you can stay ahead of hackers and protect your business from potential breaches. Remember, it’s not just about finding vulnerabilities—it’s about fixing them and ensuring your defenses are always up to date. So, take the time to evaluate your options and invest in a service that will give you peace of mind in 2024 and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is penetration testing?
Penetration testing, or pen testing, is a way to check if a computer system, network, or web application has any security holes that hackers could exploit. Experts try to break into the system to find and fix these weaknesses before the bad guys do.
Why is penetration testing important?
Penetration testing helps keep your data safe by finding and fixing security problems before hackers can exploit them. It also helps businesses meet legal requirements and build trust with customers.
How often should penetration testing be done?
It’s recommended to do penetration testing at least once a year. You should also do it whenever there are big changes to your systems or software.
What are the different methods of penetration testing?
There are four main methods: Traditional, Crowdsourcing, Internal Security Testing, and Mixed testing. Each method has its own way of finding and fixing security issues.
What should I look for in a penetration testing provider?
Look for providers with experienced and certified testers. They should follow industry standards and be transparent about their methods. Also, check if they have liability insurance and can meet your specific needs.
Can penetration testing help with compliance?
Yes, penetration testing can help you meet various compliance requirements like PCI DSS, ISO 27001, SOC 2, HIPAA, and GDPR. It shows that you are taking steps to keep your data secure.
How much does penetration testing cost?
The cost can vary a lot depending on the provider and the scope of the test. Some companies offer services starting at a few hundred dollars per month, while others may charge more for comprehensive testing.
What happens after a penetration test is completed?
After the test, you will get a report detailing any security issues found and how to fix them. Good providers will also offer advice on how to improve your overall security posture.