One sentence each
- A security audit examines your whole system and organisation to list weaknesses, broadly.
- A penetration test (pentest) simulates a real attack on a defined perimeter to prove which flaws are exploitable, in depth.
Comparison
| Security audit | Penetration test | |
|---|---|---|
| Question asked | Where are my weaknesses? | Can I really be attacked? |
| Approach | Review, inventory, configuration, procedures | Controlled attack simulation |
| Scope | Broad: technical and organisational | Targeted: a precise perimeter |
| Result | Prioritised risk list and action plan | Proven flaws with proof of exploitation |
| Impact on services | Low | Controlled but more sensitive |
| When? | First review, compliance | Verify real-world effectiveness of defenses |
Which to choose depending on your situation?
You have never assessed anything
Start with an audit: it lays the foundation and reveals simple high-impact fixes.
You have fixed things and want to verify
A pentest will confirm your defenses withstand a real intrusion attempt.
You are launching a new site or application
A pentest targeted at the application before launch avoids nasty surprises.
A client or insurer requires it
Clarify what is requested: audit, pentest or both, and with what scope.
Discover our detailed services: IT security audit and penetration testing.
