Penetration Testing Services: What Top Companies Do Right
September 17, 2025
Penetration testing services are no longer optional for growing businesses—they’re essential. As cyber threats become more advanced, companies need to know where their weaknesses are before attackers do. In this blog, you’ll learn what penetration testing is, how it works, and what makes some companies stand out. We’ll also cover common mistakes, key benefits, and how to choose the right provider. Whether you're new to pen testing or looking to improve your current security posture, this guide offers actionable insights.
Understanding penetration testing services
Penetration testing services simulate real-world attacks to find weaknesses in your systems before a threat actor can exploit them. These tests are performed by trained penetration testers who think like hackers but work for your defense. They use manual testing and automated tools to identify vulnerabilities in your applications, networks, and devices.
A penetration testing service typically includes a full security test of your internal network, web applications, and wireless network. The goal is to simulate how an attacker would try to breach your systems and assess how well your current security controls hold up. This process helps you improve your cybersecurity posture and reduce the risk of a real-world attack.
What top penetration testing companies do differently
Not all penetration testing companies are created equal. Here are the key strategies that set the top firms apart:
Strategy #1: Customize every penetration test
Top firms don’t use one-size-fits-all methods. They tailor each penetration test to your specific environment, whether it’s cloud-based, hybrid, or on-premises. This ensures the test reflects your actual risk.
Strategy #2: Combine automated and manual testing
While tools can catch common issues, manual penetration testing finds complex vulnerabilities that automation misses. Top testers use both to get a complete picture.
Strategy #3: Focus on real-world attack simulation
Leading providers simulate real-world attacks, not just theoretical ones. They mimic how a real hacker would behave, testing your systems under realistic conditions.
Strategy #4: Deliver actionable reporting
Reports from top firms don’t just list problems—they explain the impact, how to fix them, and how to prioritize. This makes it easier for your team to act.
Strategy #5: Provide post-engagement support
After the test, the best companies don’t disappear. They help you interpret results, answer questions, and even retest after fixes are made.
Strategy #6: Use red team tactics when needed
For advanced testing, top firms offer red team engagements that simulate long-term, stealthy attacks. This helps test your detection and response capabilities.
Strategy #7: Stay current with evolving threats
Cyber threats change fast. The best testers stay updated on new exploits, attacker techniques, and industry trends to keep your defenses strong.
Key benefits of penetration testing services
Penetration testing services offer several important advantages:
- Identify vulnerabilities before attackers do
- Improve your overall cybersecurity posture
- Meet compliance and regulatory requirements
- Test the effectiveness of your existing security controls
- Gain insights into how attackers could breach your systems
- Build trust with customers and stakeholders
Why vulnerability assessment alone isn’t enough
A vulnerability assessment guide can help you find known issues, but it doesn’t show how those issues could be exploited in a real attack. That’s where penetration testing services come in. They go beyond scanning by actively testing your defenses and simulating how a hacker would behave.
Pen testing also helps you understand the context of each vulnerability. For example, a low-risk flaw in isolation might become high-risk when combined with other issues. Only a full penetration testing service can uncover those chains of attack.
Types of penetration testing and when to use them
Different types of penetration testing serve different purposes. Here’s a breakdown of the most common ones:
Type #1: External network testing
This test targets your public-facing systems, like websites or VPNs. It simulates how an outsider would try to break in.
Type #2: Internal network testing
This test assumes an attacker has already breached your perimeter. It checks how far they could go inside your network.
Type #3: Web application testing
This test focuses on your web apps, looking for flaws like SQL injection or broken authentication.
Type #4: Wireless network testing
This test checks the security of your Wi-Fi networks, including access points and connected devices.
Type #5: Social engineering testing
This test simulates phishing or other human-based attacks to see if employees can be tricked into giving access.
Type #6: Physical security testing
This test evaluates how easy it is for someone to physically access your systems or data.
Type #7: Red team operations
This advanced test simulates a long-term, stealthy attack by a skilled adversary. It’s best for mature security programs.
Choosing a penetration testing company that fits your needs
Finding the right penetration testing firm means looking beyond price. You want a provider that understands your industry, offers clear communication, and delivers actionable results. Boutique penetration testing companies often provide more personalized service, while larger firms may offer broader coverage.
Ask about their testing methodology, reporting format, and post-engagement support. Also, check if they follow industry standards like OWASP or NIST. A good provider will walk you through the process and help you understand what to expect.
Best practices for running a successful test
To get the most out of your penetration testing services, follow these best practices:
- Define clear goals and scope for the test
- Inform key stakeholders and IT teams
- Provide necessary access and documentation
- Schedule testing during low-impact times
- Review the final report carefully and ask questions
- Prioritize and fix high-risk issues quickly
Following these steps helps ensure the test is effective and leads to real improvements.
Common challenges in penetration testing services
Even with the best intentions, companies often face these issues:
- Misunderstanding the scope of the test
- Not preparing internal teams for the engagement
- Delays in fixing identified vulnerabilities
- Poor communication between testers and IT staff
- Over-reliance on automated tools
- Lack of follow-up after the test
Avoiding these pitfalls helps you get the full value from your testing engagement.
How Sterling can help with penetration testing services
Are you a business with 20 to 80 employees looking for this solution? If you're growing fast, your systems are likely expanding too—and that means more potential entry points for attackers. Our team helps you stay ahead of threats with targeted, thorough penetration testing services.
We understand the unique challenges that small to mid-sized businesses face. Whether you need a one-time test or ongoing support, Sterling offers expert penetration testing that delivers clear, actionable results. Contact us today to strengthen your defenses.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a vulnerability assessment and a penetration test?
A vulnerability assessment scans your systems for known issues, while a penetration test goes further by actively trying to exploit those issues. The goal of a penetration test is to simulate how an attacker would behave in a real-world scenario. This helps you understand the actual risk and impact of each vulnerability.
Both are important, but they serve different purposes. A vulnerability assessment guide is useful for ongoing monitoring, while a penetration test provides deeper insights into your security posture.
How often should we schedule a penetration testing service?
Most companies should schedule a penetration testing service at least once a year. However, if you’ve made major changes to your systems—like launching a new application or migrating to the cloud—you should test again sooner. Regular testing helps you stay ahead of evolving cybersecurity threats.
Frequent testing also ensures that your security controls are working as expected. It’s a key part of maintaining a strong defense against attackers.
What types of vulnerabilities can a security test uncover?
A security test can uncover a wide range of issues, from outdated software and misconfigurations to weak passwords and insecure APIs. These vulnerabilities can exist in your internal network, web applications, or wireless systems.
The goal is to identify vulnerabilities before a hacker does. Once found, these issues can be prioritized and fixed to reduce your attack surface.
Why is manual testing still important in pen testing?
Manual testing is essential because automated tools can miss complex or chained vulnerabilities. A skilled tester can think like a hacker and find weaknesses that tools overlook. This is especially important in web applications where logic flaws may not trigger alerts.
Manual testing also allows for more realistic simulations. It helps identify how an attacker might move through your systems after an initial breach.
What is a red team and how is it different from standard testing?
A red team is a group of testers that simulate a long-term, stealthy attack. Unlike standard pen testing, which is often limited in scope and time, red team operations are broader and more realistic. They test your detection and response capabilities, not just your defenses.
This type of engagement is ideal for companies with mature security programs that want to see how well they can handle a real-world attack.
How do I choose the right penetration testing firm?
Start by looking for experience in your industry and clear communication. A good penetration testing firm will explain their process, provide actionable reports, and offer post-test support. Ask about their use of manual testing and how they simulate real-world attacks.
Also, consider whether a boutique penetration testing company might better suit your needs. They often offer more personalized service and deeper engagement.
