If you’re a cybersecurity expert, then ‘pentesting costs’ are certainly a familiar topic to you. Understanding and effectively planning for these costs is a crucial aspect of maintaining robust security measures in any organization. Let’s delve deeper into this important subject.
Why Do We Need Pentesting?
Safety is key in IT and OT. Hackers are always looking for a way in. Pentesting helps to keep them out. It finds the gaps in your defense before the bad guys do.
Pentesting cost factors
Factors that Impact Pentesting Costs
- Size of your business: Bigger firms have more systems. This means more time and effort to test them. So, the larger the business, the more the cost.
- Type of testing: There are different kinds of pentests. Each type has its own price. For example, a test for a web app differs from a test for a network.
- Depth of testing: How deep do you want the test to be? A surface test will cost less. A deep test will cost more.
- Expertise of the team: You are paying for the team’s knowledge. A more skilled team will cost more. But they will also find more flaws.
Pentesting cost estimates
Pentesting costs can vary widely based on the factors outlined earlier. As of 2021, here are some ballpark estimates:
| Company Size | Average Cost of Pentest |
|---|---|
| Small | $4,000 – $15,000 |
| Medium | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Large | $30,000 – $130,000 |
| Enterprise | $130,000+ |
Hourly rates for pentesters can also vary significantly based on location, experience, and the specific type of testing required. Below are some rough estimates:
| Country | Average Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| United States | $100 – $200 |
| Netherlands | €70 – €150 |
| Israel | ₪300 – ₪600 |
Remember, these numbers are just estimates and can vary widely depending on the specifics of the job and the pentesting company or individual pentester involved. Always make sure to do your own research and get multiple quotes before committing to a particular provider.
And remember, the lowest cost option may not provide the best value. The most important factor is the quality of the pentest, as this will help to ensure that your systems and data remain secure.
How to Plan for Pentesting Costs
Pentesting is a need, not a want. But you need to plan for it. Here are some tips to do that:
- Know your needs: Understand what you need from the test. This will help you pick the right team.
- Budget wisely: Have a clear budget for pentesting. Make it a part of your yearly plan.
- Value over cost: Cheaper is not always better. Pick a team for their skills, not their rates.
Read our guide on how to plan for pentesting costs here.
Why Invest in Pentesting
Pentesting may seem costly. But think of it as an investment. It saves you from bigger losses in the future. It protects your data. It builds trust with your clients. In short, it is good for your business.
To sum up, pentesting is vital. Yes, it comes with a cost. But the cost of not doing it is much higher. So, plan wisely and invest in it. Your business will thank you.
