The cost of penetration testing varies widely due to factors such as company size, environment, type of penetration test, and security goals. Understanding your organization’s security goals and compliance requirements determines the scope and depth of the testing, which in turn influences the overall cost.

How Much Does Penetration Testing Cost?

Penetration testing costs differ significantly, typically ranging from $2,500 to over $50,000. Several factors influence this price range, including company size, complexity of the environment, type of penetration test, number of assets involved, and compliance software subscriptions. 

Brad Herring, VP of Business Development at Raxis, helps educate clients on which testing best meets their security goals. Herring says customers often have misguided expectations about penetration testing because they’re unfamiliar with the different types. For example, a client might request automated scanning when manual testing by an experienced engineer would be more appropriate.

Factors Affecting Penetration Testing Costs

The factors influencing penetration testing costs revolve around complexity, method, and tester experience. For example, a large company with multiple websites or apps will increase the complexity. So will the test type and method. The tester’s experience level and services provided will also affect the cost.

Here are the details on factors that affect penetration costs: 

• Company Size

Large companies face higher costs due to having many potential points of attack. Herring says a company with 500 employees, complex networks, and a high data volume will pay more than a 50-person startup conducting its first pen test. 

• Testing Scope

The scope of the test significantly impacts the cost. Testing a single website with all included web applications is much less complex and time-consuming than testing multiple locations or a large number of applications. For instance, choosing to test six out of 12 locations or four out of 12 applications reduces the scope, lowering costs. The number of IP addresses or devices also affects the price, as each additional element increases the time and resources required for a thorough assessment.

• Experience of Penetration Tester(s)

The average hourly penetration testing cost depends on the tester’s experience level. For example, a senior-level tester is significantly more expensive than automated testing. Additionally, the number of engineers involved influences the cost. A larger team can complete the testing more quickly but at a higher expense. 

• Complexity of Testing Environment 

The complexity of the testing environment, such as internal versus external, also impacts the cost. External networks are typically simpler and more affordable to test, starting at around $3,600. Internal testing is more costly due to the need to assess internal systems, networks, and applications. Comprehensive testing for certification purposes may require more detailed and extensive evaluations, leading to higher costs.

• Remediation Services 

Remediation services require highly skilled professionals who identify issues and develop and apply effective solutions. This process takes more time and effort, significantly increasing the overall cost. Your quoted price may not include remediation services, ranging from basic to full.

• Types of Penetration Tests 

Understanding the various penetration testing types is important for selecting the right approach. The types of pen tests include Network Services, Web Application, Wireless, Client-Side, Wireless, Cloud, Social Engineering, IoT, Physical, and Red Team. 

• Testing Methodology 

Different methodologies simulate different attacks. The scope, environment, and company goals determine the method used. External attacks that simulate attacks from outside the organization are typically less expensive. Internal attacks are often more costly due to their complexity. Blind testers have no prior knowledge of the system, which increases the cost due to the extensive research required. A targeted methodology focuses on specific areas with full knowledge provided, so costs vary based on the target's complexity.

• Black, Gray or White Box Testing

Three common testing approaches are black box, gray box, and white box. Here’s a look at each:

• • Black Box: Testers have no prior system knowledge, so they require more research and time, raising costs. If an engineer at Raxis tests an internal network using a black box, they walk away with 85% access within four days. 
  • Gray Box: A hybrid of black-box and white-box testing, moderately priced due to some prior knowledge provided.
  • White Box: Testers fully know the system, saving time and reducing costs, although the test scope might still lead to significant expenses. The type of test affects the number of hours and the price.
    
    

• Regulatory Requirements

Compliance with specific industry regulations or standards can influence the cost. For example, organizations in the financial or healthcare sectors may require adherence to stringent regulatory requirements such as PCI-DSS or HIPAA, which can necessitate more comprehensive and costly testing.

• Geographical Location

The location of the company or testing team can impact costs. Regions with a higher cost of living or limited availability of qualified testers may have higher rates. Additionally, testing across multiple locations may incur travel expenses and logistical complexities.

• Testing Frequency

The frequency of penetration testing can affect overall costs. As part of a security maintenance program, periodic testing may offer economies of scale and potential discounts. In contrast, one-time tests might be more expensive due to setup and initial assessment costs.

• Customization and Reporting

Customized testing and detailed reporting requirements can increase costs. Tailoring the penetration test to specific organizational needs and generating comprehensive reports for different audiences, such as technical teams or management, require additional effort and expertise.

• Third-Party Collaboration

The involvement of third-party vendors or consultants can add to the cost. Coordinating with external parties, integrating their systems, and ensuring seamless collaboration during testing may require additional resources and expenses.

• Post-Test Support

Post-test services will add to the cost. These may include detailed debriefings, staff training sessions, or follow-up tests to verify remediation effectiveness. These services ensure that the organization fully understands the findings and can effectively address identified vulnerabilities.

How Penetration Testing Works in Compliance Management Software Subscriptions

A compliance management software subscription can help you streamline your process and can include penetration testing. For example, Strike Graph partners with Red Sentry to perform penetration testing in their compliance platform. 

Here are the different ways penetration testing works in compliance management software subscriptions: 

• Fixed-Price Service Package – This package provides a clear, upfront cost based on the required hours for testing. 
  
  Matias Donnet, Channel Manager at Red Sentry, says the starting price for web application and external testing is about $3,600. Internal testing, which is more complex and requires additional hours, starts at $4,800.
  
  
  
• Credit Model – Credit allows companies to purchase credits or testing days in advance, which can be used as needed. 
• Time and Materials – Time and materials vary depending on the type of test required. For example, testing Wi-Fi at home requires sending a small device to connect at home to test. External requires an IP address, cloud requires login credentials, and internal connects through VPN.  
• Bundled Services—These typically include remediation services, day-to-day monitoring, and pen testing. Red Sentry partners with Strike Graph to conduct the pen testing. Donnet says he discusses assets and goals with clients to determine a price bundle, helping to leverage services.

Pricing Factors for Different Types of Penetration Tests

The type of penetration testing affects the cost. Pen test types include web app, mobile app, network, internal, and cloud. The number and complexity of each significantly affect the pricing.

Here are the details of pen testing types and pricing factors: 

• Web Application Pen Testing: The total number and complexity of web applications determine the price because each application requires individual testing. Factors such as the number of pages, functionalities, integrations with other systems, and user roles add to the complexity and cost.
• SaaS Pen Testing: Testing Software as a Service (SaaS) applications involves assessing the security of cloud-based services and applications. Price factors include the number of SaaS applications costs, the extent of data processing, user roles, and integrations with other cloud services. Multi-tenant environments, where multiple clients use the same application instance, also increase complexity and cost.
• API Pen Testing: The cost depends on the number of APIs, their endpoints, and the complexity of their interactions. Each API must be individually tested for security vulnerabilities such as authentication flaws, data exposure, and injection attacks. The more APIs and endpoints, the higher the cost.
• Mobile Application Pen Testing: The price depends on whether the application is compatible with iOS, Android, or both. Testing for both platforms increases the cost. Additional factors influencing the price include the number of pages, features, and integrations within each mobile application.
• Network Pen Testing: The price depends on the network size and complexity. Larger networks with more devices, servers, switches, and routers cost more. The complexity of the network architecture, including segmentation, firewalls, and access controls, also affects the cost.
• Internal Pen Testing: The cost hinges on the number of internal servers, workstations, network segments, and the complexity of internal systems. This type of testing is typically more comprehensive, requiring in-depth analysis of internal security controls, user access, and data handling practices.
• Cloud Pen Testing: Cloud testing is similar to internal pricing and depends on the total number of cloud services and servers. Factors include the complexity of cloud configurations, the number of virtual machines, containers, serverless functions, and the use of multiple cloud providers. Compliance with specific cloud security standards may also impact the cost.
• IoT Pen Testing: The cost of Internet of Things (IoT) testing is determined by the number of devices because each device must be assessed for vulnerabilities. The complexity of IoT ecosystems, including device types, communication protocols, and integration with other systems, also influences the cost.

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Pen Testing Service

Asking the right questions is essential to choosing your pen testing service. Here’s a list of questions to ask when considering a penetration testing service: 

• What types of testing do you offer? (Such as external, internal, web application, mobile app, API, wireless network)
• Where would the testing take place?
• What would be automated vs. manual?
• What methods do you use?
• What is the experience level of the engineer(s)?
• What certifications do your testers hold?
• How do you scope a penetration test?
• What is the timeline for delivering the final report?
• What measures do you take to protect sensitive information during and after the test?
• What does your penetration testing report include?
• Can you explain your reporting process?
• What is your approach to handling discovered vulnerabilities?
• Do you offer remediation and other follow-up services?
• Do you provide a retesting service after remediation?
• What are your pricing models?
• Do you offer any guarantees or service-level agreements?
• How do you handle test disruptions?
• What level of customization do you offer in your testing services?
• How often do you recommend we do pen tests?
• How do you stay updated on security threats and testing methodologies?
• How do you ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards?
• What tools and technologies do you use for testing?
• What references can you provide from similar industries?
• What kind of support do you offer during and after testing?
• Can you outline a typical engagement timeline?
  
  

Download a copy of Vendor Questions for Penetration Testing Services

Limitations and Risks of Cheap Penetration Testing

While a cheaper penetration testing service may seem like a cost-effective solution, it can have significant limitations and risks that could compromise your security posture.
Ultimately, “cheap” penetration testing could cost you a lot due to inadequate expertise, testing, and follow-up.

Here are the risks of cheap penetration testing:

• Inadequate Expertise: Low-cost services often employ less experienced testers who may not have the necessary skills and knowledge to identify complex vulnerabilities. This can result in missed security gaps that leave your systems exposed.
• Incomplete Testing: Cheap penetration tests might not comprehensively cover all aspects of your environment. They may skip critical areas or perform only superficial assessments, leading to an incomplete understanding of your security risks.
• Outdated Tools and Techniques: Budget services may rely on outdated tools and techniques that are less effective against modern threats. This can result in an inaccurate assessment of your security posture and failure to detect advanced vulnerabilities.
• Poor Reporting: Inexpensive services might provide low-quality reports without detailed findings, actionable recommendations, or clear explanations. Poor reporting can make it difficult to understand and address the identified vulnerabilities effectively.
• Lack of Follow-Up: After the initial test, cheap services may not offer follow-up support to help remediate issues or verify fixes. This leaves your organization without guidance on properly resolving the identified vulnerabilities.
• Ethical and Legal Concerns: Some low-cost providers may not adhere to strict ethical and legal standards. Testing not conducted within the agreed-upon scope and boundaries can result in unauthorized access, data breaches, or legal repercussions.
• Reputation Damage: If a cheap penetration testing service mishandles sensitive data or causes disruptions, it can damage your organization’s reputation. The impact of a data breach or system downtime can be far more costly than investing in a reputable testing service.
• Remediation Costs: Identifying vulnerabilities is only the first step. If the initial test is not thorough, you may need to pay for additional testing and remediation services later, leading to higher overall costs.
• Vendor Reliability: Low-cost providers may lack the stability and reliability of established firms. This can lead to issues with communication, consistency, and trust, making it difficult to ensure a successful and secure engagement.
• Lack of Customization: Cheaper services might offer standardized testing packages that do not address your environment's specific needs and complexities. This can result in missed vulnerabilities and inadequate security assessments.
• Inadequate Risk Management: Without a comprehensive understanding of your unique security risks, cheap penetration tests may fail to provide the insights needed to prioritize and manage these risks effectively.
• Limited Methodologies: Budget services may use a limited set of testing methodologies, which can overlook certain vulnerabilities or attack vectors requiring more sophisticated techniques.
  
  

AI and Pen Testing Costs

Some companies advertise cheaper, AI-driven pen testing. While AI may identify surface-level vulnerabilities, it’s no substitute for human experts who can determine and implement solutions.

Many people are unaware of the complexities involved in penetration testing and may mistakenly equate it with simpler security measures, such as antivirus software. Red Sentry employs a fully manual approach, ensuring that experienced professionals are hands-on throughout testing to deliver thorough and accurate results.

Brian Tant, Chief Penetration Testing Offer at Raxis, says, “At present, AI cannot match the human capabilities of performing penetration testing, so it's primarily used for automation and conducting broader-level enumeration and attacks. While there is some overlap between AI and human capabilities, for now, AI lacks the creativity required for interpreting the output effectively.”

Easiest way to manage penetration test costs

Organizations need an effective way to manage the cost of pen testing. Strike Graph makes it convenient and cost-effective, with prices starting at $5,000 for customers on its compliance management platform.

Strike Graph can handle all your security compliance needs. Sign up for an annual subscription, and then get pen testing at the discounted flat rate. You can be assured of comprehensive pen testing that meets your security goals.

With Strike Graph, you get security compliance priced to scale.