Penetration tests can be designed in different ways and should be constructed to take the unique features of your network into account. If the test is well-designed, a penetration test report will clearly explain how the tester obtained entry to your network and how they were able to take over your server and/or computers. The penetration test report gives context and explanation to the vulnerabilities that have been identified.

With a blueprint that shows how to remediate the risk and prevent an attacker from getting to the servers, most business owners are able to move forward with confidence and a reasonable, actionable budget for ongoing security measures.

Sometimes security measures must be geared to current high-profile threats that have cropped up in the marketplace. But that depends on the type of business, the data that may be at vulnerable and the risk appetite of the business owner. All IT security upgrades come with a price tag, and priority should be given to the vulnerabilities and threats that are most likely to affect your organization.