Penetration Testing
Prepare for Audit Execution
Scope and estimate penetration tests correctly before engaging vendors to ensure audit acceptance.
Guidance only; align scope with your auditor. Last updated: 2026-01-05.
What is a penetration test?
A penetration test is a time-boxed security assessment where a qualified tester simulates real-world attacks to identify exploitable weaknesses. For SOC 2, it provides evidence of effective technical controls and vulnerability management within your production environment.
Learn morePentest Cost Estimator
Interactive ToolGet estimated market pricing ranges based on your app, API, and environment scope.
Pentest Scoping Worksheet
Interactive ToolNew: Define your targets and complexity to get accurate quotes and auditor-ready scope.
Pentest SOW Template
Interactive ToolStandardized Statement of Work to ensure your test covers the right controls.
Retesting Guidance
How to handle findings and prove remediation to your auditor.
For Compliance Buyers
A guide for GRC and security teams on buying pentests that actually count.
Why this matters for SOC 2
Penetration testing is often a required activity for the Security, Availability, and Confidentiality trust service criteria. It proves your vulnerability management process isn't just theoretical.
- •Auditors look for clear scope that matches your system description.
- •Enterprise buyers use the pentest executive summary as a key trust signal.
- •Retesting is critical to show that findings were actually remediated.
How it works
- Use the Scoping Worksheet to define your technical targets and auth complexity.
- Run the Cost Estimator to set budget expectations and timeline windows.
- Align the test with your SOC 2 observation window and share the SOW with your auditor.
Use as guidance—align technical scope with your security lead and auditor.
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