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To maximize the effectiveness of a pentest and minimize risks, it is important to plan the timing carefully:
- Choose a Quiet Period: Schedule pentests during quiet periods when there are no major events or critical business processes.
- Stabilize the System First: Perform pentests after all major system changes have been completed and the system is stable.
- Communicate with Teams: Ensure all involved teams, such as IT, developers, and management, are aware of the planned pentest and prepared to quickly address any findings.
We advise against performing a pentest during critical periods or when the system is undergoing changes. Here are the main reasons why this is not advisable:
- Minimal Impact on Business Continuity
During critical periods, such as peak seasons, product launches, or important business events, a pentest can disrupt normal operations. Pentests often involve intensive scans and attack simulations that can cause system slowdowns or even temporary outages. This can affect application performance, leading to revenue loss or decreased customer satisfaction. - Accuracy of Test Results
When a system is undergoing changes, such as upgrades, migrations, or other test changes, configurations and system stability can fluctuate. This instability can affect the accuracy of pentest results, as vulnerabilities detected during this period may not be representative of the system's normal operation. - Risk of Unintended Disruption
Pentests can place a heavy load on systems and unintentionally cause disruptions, especially in an environment that is already undergoing changes or is not fully stabilized. The risk of system downtime or performance issues is higher during periods of change, potentially leading to negative impacts on user experience and business operations. - Limited Recovery Capabilities
During critical periods, the capacity to quickly respond to issues is often limited because focus and resources are needed elsewhere. The team may not be able to immediately address findings or disruptions caused by the pentest, increasing the potential damage. - Disruption of Testing Processes
When the system itself is undergoing test changes, performing a pentest can disrupt these testing processes. This can lead to inaccurate test results, both for the pentest and other ongoing tests. The complexity of simultaneously performing multiple tests can also lead to miscommunication and inefficiencies.
By considering these factors, you can minimize risks and maximize the benefits of pentesting without jeopardizing business continuity.