What Is Network Segmentation and Why Does It Matter? A Simple Office Example
How splitting your network into zones limits the damage from a hack, with a simple office layout, a segmentation plan and when microsegmentation makes sense.
Cybersecurity
What is Penetration Testing?
Quick answer
An authorized, simulated cyberattack on a system to find and fix security weaknesses before real attackers exploit them.
Penetration Testing, explained
Penetration testers, sometimes called ethical hackers, use the same techniques as criminals but with permission and a defined scope. A test might target a web application, a corporate network, cloud configurations, a mobile app, or even physical security and staff through social engineering.
A typical engagement includes planning and scoping, reconnaissance to gather information, scanning for vulnerabilities, attempting exploitation to see how far an attacker could get, and a report with findings and recommended fixes. Tests can be black box, with no inside knowledge, or white box, with full access to code and documentation. Penetration testing differs from automated vulnerability scanning because humans chain weaknesses together creatively. Many regulations and standards require regular testing.
Related terms
Bug Bounty
A program in which an organization rewards independent researchers for responsibly reporting security vulnerabilities in its systems.
CybersecurityThe practice of protecting computers, networks, software, and data from unauthorized access, attacks, and damage.
VulnerabilityA weakness in software, hardware, configuration, or process that an attacker could exploit to cause harm.
Guides that mention Penetration Testing
HealthTech
Trending
AI in Healthcare 2026: From Diagnostics to Ambient Documentation
AI is moving from pilot projects into everyday clinical work. Here is where it genuinely helps in diagnostics, documentation and triage, and how clinics can adopt it safely.
How Much Does Cybersecurity Cost for a Small Business?
A practical breakdown of small business cybersecurity spending across tools, services and training, with real list prices and a budget template you can adapt.