You’ve sorted the basics: antivirus, firewalls, password policies and even some cyber awareness training for your staff.
But when was the last time you properly tested how well all of these work?
Cybersecurity is not just a one-time setup. It is something that needs to be reviewed and reinforced regularly because tools, systems and threats are always changing. While most businesses understand the need to protect their data, it is not always clear what that protection should look like in practice.
This is where services like vulnerability assessments and penetration testing come in. Both are designed to find weaknesses before someone else does – but they take different approaches and offer different levels of insight.
If you are not sure which is right for your business, here is what you need to know.
Vulnerability Assessments: A System Check-Up
A vulnerability assessment is typically the starting point. It uses automated tools to scan your systems – servers, laptops, firewalls, cloud platforms – and flag anything that might be a security risk.
Once the scan is complete, you receive a report listing the vulnerabilities found, their risk level and suggested next steps for fixing them.
It is quick, non-instrusive and ideal for regular checks or meeting compliance requirements. For smaller businesses or those new to cyber testing, it is an efficient way to get a clear view on where you stand.
Think of it like a routine building inspection – it identifies the weak spots but no one is trying to break in.
Penetration Testing: A Simulated Attack
Penetration testing takes it a step further. Instead of flagging potential issues, it tests exactly how they could be exploited.
A trained security consultant acts like an attacker – only safely and ethically – using the same techniques a hacker might. If there’s a vulnerability, they will attempt to access data, move through systems or gain control to demonstrate the real-world impact.
Post-simulated attack, you will receive a detailed report outlining what was exploited, what access was gained and how to fix it. This is not a theoretical attempt – it is practical insight into how your defences hold up under pressure.
Pen testing is usually more in-depth and is often required by businesses that deal with sensitive data, operate in regulated industries or have more complex IT environments.
If we go back to our building analogy, this time someone is actually testing if they can break in, how far they can get and what they could walk away with.
How to Decide Between a Penetration Test and Vulnerability Assessment
If you are after a fast, cost-effective way to understand your risk exposure, start with a vulnerability assessment. But if you need to know how those vulnerabilities actually play out or need to demonstrate robust testing for compliance reasons, a penetration test offers deeper insight.
However, this is not an either/or scenario. Many organisations use both. A vulnerability assessment gives you the big picture, while the penetration test shows you the detail behind it.
The right approach is all dependent on your business size, sector, level of risk and any industry requirements you need to meet.
Need Help Choosing the Right Test for Your Business?
We’ve partnered with Heretek to offer straightforward, reliable cyber testing that gives you the clarity you need – whether you’re looking for a quick check or a full simulation of how an attacker might get in.
We can help you understand which type of test is right for your business, what is involved and what the results actually mean. You will also get clear guidance, expert input and full visibility of your risks. Click here to find out more.
