Penetration testing is an authorized, simulated attack against systems, networks, or facilities to identify exploitable vulnerabilities before real adversaries do. Conducted by ethical hackers using reconnaissance, exploitation, and privilege-escalation techniques, it validates the effectiveness of defenses. Data center operators commission regular pen tests of infrastructure, applications, and sometimes physical security to satisfy compliance requirements and harden their environment against attack.
Category: Security & Compliance · Subcategory: Cybersecurity & Zero Trust · Part of the AIDC Technical Terminology reference.