Penetration test or red team exercise?
A pentest finds as many flaws as possible within a scope; a red team exercise checks whether you detect and stop a realistic attack. Which do you need?
Penetration test
Defined scope (one app, external network, internal network), team often informed, goal: find and document as many weaknesses as possible. The right starting point for most organizations.
Red team
A specific objective (for example reaching financial data), all agreed techniques — technical, social and physical — and an unaware defence team. Useful when basics are solid and monitoring is in place.
Where to start
If you’ve never been tested, start with an external and internal test. Red teaming adds value when you want to measure detection and response.
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Further reading
Frequently asked questions
Do you run red team exercises?
Yes, on request, combining technical tests, social engineering and physical access, with written rules and management authorization.
Planning penetration testing?
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Updated 2026-11-05