diff --git a/methodology/scoping.md b/methodology/scoping.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..5d8a955 --- /dev/null +++ b/methodology/scoping.md @@ -0,0 +1,59 @@ +Certainly! Planning and scoping are critical steps in a penetration testing assessment to ensure that the test achieves its objectives while minimizing risks. Here's how you might go about it: + +### Planning Phase + +#### Initial Client Meeting +- **Objective**: Understand what the client aims to achieve with the penetration test. +- **Key Questions**: + - What are the key assets you're concerned about? + - What types of attacks or threats are you most concerned with? + - Do you have any compliance requirements (e.g., PCI-DSS, HIPAA)? + +#### Documentation Review +- **Objective**: Review existing documentation to understand the network topology, application architecture, and other relevant details. +- **Key Deliverables**: + - Network diagrams + - Application architecture diagrams + - Previous vulnerability assessments or pen test reports + +#### Legal and Compliance Checks +- **Objective**: Ensure that all legal requirements are met and permissions are granted. +- **Key Deliverables**: + - Signed contract + - Non-disclosure agreement (NDA) + - Permission to test forms + +### Scoping Phase + +#### Define Scope +- **Objective**: Clearly outline what is in-scope and out-of-scope. +- **Key Deliverables**: + - List of target IP addresses + - List of target applications + - User roles for testing authenticated areas + +#### Determine Timeframe +- **Objective**: Decide the duration of the test. +- **Key Questions**: + - When will the test start and end? + - Are there any blackout periods during which testing should not occur? + +#### Resource Allocation +- **Objective**: Decide who will perform the test and what tools will be used. +- **Key Deliverables**: + - Names and credentials of the penetration testers + - List of tools that will be used + +#### Success Criteria +- **Objective**: Define what will constitute a successful test. +- **Key Deliverables**: + - Expected outcomes + - Metrics for success (e.g., percentage of high-risk vulnerabilities identified) + +#### Finalize Plan +- **Objective**: Consolidate all the above information into a formal test plan. +- **Key Deliverables**: + - Penetration Test Plan document + - Client approval on the plan + +By spending ample time on planning and scoping, you're laying a solid foundation for a successful penetration test. This ensures that both the client and the testing team have clear expectations and guidelines, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings or scope creep.