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Do you need a Configuration Review, a Penetration Test – or both?

Understand the difference and choose the right assurance for your systems.

The right test at the right time

Every organisation needs assurance that their systems are secure – but the right assessment depends on where you are in your deployment. Configuration reviews and penetration tests each deliver valuable insight into your security posture, but they serve different purposes. Understanding when to use which ensures your investment delivers maximum impact.

Configuration Reviews: Building security in from the start

A configuration review assesses how securely your system has been built – from cloud platforms to firewalls and applications. It’s best performed during or immediately after deployment, identifying any misconfigurations, weak permissions, or control gaps before going live. This proactive step gives you confidence that your foundation is strong and aligned with best practice.

Configuration Reviews: Building security in from the start
Penetration Testing: Proving your defences under pressure
Penetration Testing: Proving your defences under pressure

Once your systems are live, a penetration test takes security validation further by simulating real-world attacks. It identifies vulnerabilities that could be exploited and shows how an attacker could move through your environment if access was gained. Penetration testing helps you understand the impact of an exploit – and prioritise fixes based on real risk.

Together, they deliver complete assurance

A configuration review checks your setup is secure before exposure. A penetration test validates how it stands up to attack once it’s live. Used together, they provide end-to-end confidence – ensuring you’re protected from build through to operation.

Together, they deliver complete assurance
How Secarma Delivers Value
Risk Reduction
We help you proactively fix misconfigurations before they are exploited, protecting critical assets from internal and external threats.
Baseline Enforcement
Ensure that every build, no matter where or when deployed, meets your security standards and is consistent across your organisation.
Tailored Recommendations
You’ll receive focused, practical advice based on your unique environment, not generic checklists.
Thorough, Manual Testing by Experienced Consultants
Gain deeper insight into real-world vulnerabilities that automated tools can’t detect, including logic flaws and privilege escalation issues.
Compliance and Standards Alignment
Meet the requirements of frameworks like OWASP Top 10, ISO 27001, and PCI DSS with comprehensive test coverage.
Post-Test Remediation Support
Access expert guidance to help fix issues quickly and efficiently, with optional retesting to confirm remediation.
Resources
Stay up to date with expert-written blogs, security labs, downloadable guides and more, all designed to support your journey.
Penetration Testing 101 – Why Human Expertise Still Matters
Identify Your Weakest Link – Security Risk Guide
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Get in touch
See how we’ve helped hundreds of businesses to improve their cyber security and regain their calm.

Alternatively, you can call us on 0161 513 0960

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