IT leaders know the drill – regulators and cyber insurers demand regular maintenance network penetration test to keep the bad guys out. But here’s the thing: Hackers don’t wait for schedules to run.
Most companies conduct penetration testing on a set schedule, with twice a year (29%) being the most common, followed by three to four times a year (23%) and once a year (20%), according to Kaseya 2024 Cyber Security Research Report. Compliance-oriented testing can detect vulnerabilities that exist at the exact time of testing, but it’s not enough to significantly outpace attackers.
Why more frequent testing makes sense
When companies test more frequently, they’re not just checking compliance — they’re actually protecting their networks. Kaseya’s survey also reveals that the top drivers for network penetration testing are:
- Cyber security monitoring and auditing (34%) – ensuring the operation of security controls and minimizing vulnerabilities.
- Compliance with regulatory requirements (19%) – in keeping with industry standards.
- Cyber Insurance Requirements (15%) – meeting the insurer’s coverage requirements.
However, the cost of traditional consultant-administered testing often makes this difficult. But here’s the good news: automated network penetration testing can reduce costs by more than 60% compared to the traditional method. Now we’re talking about frequent, proactive testing that’s really possible.
The Pain of Traditional Testing: Time, Cost, and Outdated Reports
Traditional network penetration testing involves consultants who rely on manual processes and specialized tools. Not only is it expensive, but you’re also dealing with their schedule, which can turn the test into a month-long process from start to finish. By the time the report is done, the network may have already changed or new vulnerabilities have appeared – so much for real-time information.
Given how fast networks are evolving and how quickly new vulnerabilities appear, conventional compliance-oriented testing simply isn’t keeping up. Companies want more frequent testing, but they need a solution that won’t drain their budgets or bog them down in endless planning.
Automated Testing: Faster, Affordable, and Always Ready
Enter automated network penetration testing: the answer to both cost and time challenges. It covers all regulatory and insurance requirements, delivers results within days (not weeks) and can be performed as needed. No waiting, no juggling schedules.
Think of it this way: You can take the test today if you need it today. With automation reducing costs by more than 60%, frequent testing is now affordable for most companies.
Frequent automated testing means companies can quickly address issues in real time rather than being left in limbo. This frees up time to actually test and improve security controls, rather than managing relationships with consultants. Monthly testing allows you to identify and fix vulnerabilities before attackers have a chance.
Conclusion: Thinking about safety all year round
Trying to keep up with today’s cyber threats with an annual test is like trying to win a tricycle race. The threat landscape is constantly changing; last year alone, new vulnerabilities appeared almost twice a week! Frequent testing moves network security from a compliance check box to a real defense strategy.
vPenTest makes it easy to protect your network year-round with an affordable, automated solution that meets compliance requirements and improves security.
Go ahead with vPenTest
vPenTest by Vonahi Security is the leading SaaS automated network penetration testing platform that makes pentesting simple, fast and scalable.
- Ready to match – Compliant with PCI, HIPAA, SOC2 and cyber insurance.
- Planning on demand – Run tests as often as necessary, keeping threats under control.
- Budgetary – High-quality testing at a fraction of traditional costs.
- Fast results – Complete assessments and reports in just days.
- Real-time tracking and logging – Follow the progress live, all actions are logged for transparency.
- Improved security – Integrate real-time logs with your alert systems for stronger protection.
Ready to upgrade your network security to proactive year-round network pen testing? vPenTest is the #1 automated, scalable and budget-friendly solution. Learn more about vPenTest today!
