Top10 toppenetrationtestingcompanies.com
UPDATED FOR JANUARY 2026

The Top 10 Penetration Testing Companies Providers in 2023

The leading penetration testing companies

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Editor Researcher
Expert Editorial Team Riley Wilson
Penetration Testing Companies

150+

Companies Reviewed

About Top Penetration Testing Companies

Empowering organizations to make informed decisions by providing transparent rankings and reviews of top-tier penetration testing companies for essential cybersecurity protection.

Customer Reviews 40%
We analyze customer reviews from multiple trusted platforms to assess real-world satisfaction with Penetration Testing Companies providers.
Response Time 30%
Our team contacts providers directly to evaluate response times, professionalism, and service quality firsthand.
Licensing 20%
We verify licenses, certifications, and professional credentials to ensure Penetration Testing Companies providers meet industry standards.
Price Transparency 10%
We assess whether Penetration Testing Companies providers offer clear upfront pricing without hidden fees or surprise charges.

Our Approach

  • Editorial Independence: Rankings aren't influenced by paid placements.
  • Public Data: We aggregate reviews from multiple sources.
  • Regular Updates: Rankings are refreshed periodically.

The Top 10 List

Brought to you by the Editorial Board of Top Penetration Testing Companies

5-Star Service
#1
Prescient Security

Prescient Security

4.9 (142 reviews)
Specializes in PCI DSS Assessments and ISO 27001 Certification, providing robust compliance solutions that are highly sought after by large enterprises. Rapid turnaround of results typically within 48 hours, allowing clients to address vulnerabilities quickly and enhance their security posture. Team composed of US veterans and top-tier white hat hackers, which ensures a high level of expertise and reliability in penetration testing services.

Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #Trusted #CuttingEdge #Efficient

The Analysis

Pros
  • Specializes in PCI DSS Assessments and ISO 27001 Certification, providing robust compliance solutions that are highly sought after by large enterprises.
  • Rapid turnaround of results typically within 48 hours, allowing clients to address vulnerabilities quickly and enhance their security posture.
Cons
  • Pricing may be higher than competitors like ScienceSoft, which could deter smaller businesses or startups.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

Prescient Security provided me with outstanding bundled coverage for both my home and auto, making the process seamless and efficient.
I was impressed by the tailored dwelling coverage they arranged for my rental properties, showcasing their expertise in finding the best solutions for my needs.
Industry Leader
#2
ScienceSoft

ScienceSoft

4.6 (98 reviews)
Offers tailored penetration testing services with a focus on software development environments, leveraging their expertise in the field. Proactive customer engagement with readily available contact information, enhancing accessibility for client inquiries and support. Utilizes automated tools alongside manual testing methods to provide comprehensive security assessments, ensuring thorough coverage of potential vulnerabilities.

Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #CustomerCentric #CyberSecurityExperts #Reliable

The Analysis

Pros
  • Offers tailored penetration testing services with a focus on software development environments, leveraging their expertise in the field.
  • Proactive customer engagement with readily available contact information, enhancing accessibility for client inquiries and support.
Cons
  • Lacks extensive client testimonials or case studies on their website, making it difficult for potential clients to gauge their effectiveness and experience.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

Binmile exceeded our expectations with their expertise and dedication in mobile app development, truly enhancing our application's capabilities.
The team at Binmile demonstrated exceptional professionalism and creativity, making our project a success with their hard work and innovative solutions.
Expert
#3
Edgescan

Edgescan

4.5 (215 reviews)
Offers a unified platform that integrates External Attack Surface Management (EASM), Risk-based Vulnerability Management (RBVM), Application Security Testing (AST), API Security Testing, and Penetration Testing as a Service (PTaaS), providing a comprehensive security solution. Utilizes a three-step approach for continuous monitoring and prioritized remediation, which effectively reduces business risk by addressing vulnerabilities in a timely manner. Provides free training courses for developers to enhance their understanding of secure coding practices, fostering a culture of security within client organizations.

Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #Innovative #Trustworthy #Educational

The Analysis

Pros
  • Offers a unified platform that integrates External Attack Surface Management (EASM), Risk-based Vulnerability Management (RBVM), Application Security Testing (AST), API Security Testing, and Penetration Testing as a Service (PTaaS), providing a comprehensive security solution.
  • Utilizes a three-step approach for continuous monitoring and prioritized remediation, which effectively reduces business risk by addressing vulnerabilities in a timely manner.
Cons
  • Pricing may be higher than some competitors like Compass IT Compliance, which could deter smaller businesses or startups from engaging their services.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

The team at Edgescan is exceptional-knowledgeable, accommodating, and truly dedicated to their clients' needs. I wholeheartedly recommend their cost-effective services!
My experience with Edgescan was outstanding; their caring approach and expertise made all the difference in navigating my security needs.
#4
Compass IT Compliance

Compass IT Compliance

4.5 (86 reviews)
Offers a Virtual CISO (vCISO) service that provides businesses access to experienced security professionals at a lower cost compared to hiring in-house Has a strong compliance portfolio with expertise in navigating complex regulations such as PCI DSS, HIPAA, and GDPR, ensuring clients meet industry standards effectively Provides specialized services like Vulnerability Management and Penetration Testing, allowing for tailored security solutions that preemptively identify and mitigate risks

Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #TrustedPartner #CostEffective #ProactiveProtection

The Analysis

Pros
  • Offers a Virtual CISO (vCISO) service that provides businesses access to experienced security professionals at a lower cost compared to hiring in-house
  • Has a strong compliance portfolio with expertise in navigating complex regulations such as PCI DSS, HIPAA, and GDPR, ensuring clients meet industry standards effectively
Cons
  • Limited service availability primarily focused in the Northeast region of the United States, which may not cater to clients in other geographical areas

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

Compass IT Compliance consistently exceeds my expectations across multiple sites I manage; their expertise and service quality are truly impressive.
I couldn't be more satisfied with the exceptional support and professionalism provided by Compass IT Compliance; they are my go-to for all security needs.
#5
Tevora

Tevora

4.4 (54 reviews)
Over 20 years of experience in cybersecurity, resulting in a deep understanding of industry-specific challenges and solutions. A robust portfolio of more than 10,000 audits performed, demonstrating extensive practical knowledge and reliability. Offers a comprehensive suite of services that includes compliance and risk management, making it a one-stop shop for organizations looking for integrated cybersecurity solutions.

Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #ExpertSecurity #Adaptable #LongTermCommitment

The Analysis

Pros
  • Over 20 years of experience in cybersecurity, resulting in a deep understanding of industry-specific challenges and solutions.
  • A robust portfolio of more than 10,000 audits performed, demonstrating extensive practical knowledge and reliability.
Cons
  • Potentially higher pricing compared to competitors like Edgescan and Breachlock Inc., which may offer similar services at a lower cost.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

Tevora delivers high-quality services, but their pricing is on the higher side, which led us to choose a more budget-friendly option elsewhere.
As a cybersecurity student, I've found Tevora's expertise impressive, though I wish their rates were more competitive.
#6
NetSPI

NetSPI

4.3 (30 reviews)
Offers a comprehensive suite of penetration testing services, including web application, network, and cloud testing, tailored to various industries. Holds multiple industry certifications such as CREST, OSCP, and PCI DSS compliance, showcasing their expertise and commitment to high standards.
Get Quote

Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #ExpertiseDriven #CyberSecure #RelentlesslyResourceful

The Analysis

Pros
  • Offers a comprehensive suite of penetration testing services, including web application, network, and cloud testing, tailored to various industries.
  • Holds multiple industry certifications such as CREST, OSCP, and PCI DSS compliance, showcasing their expertise and commitment to high standards.
Cons
  • Pricing tends to be higher than competitors like Edgescan and Compass IT Compliance, which may deter smaller businesses.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

NetSPI has consistently exceeded our expectations with their thorough penetration testing services and exceptional customer support.
Working with NetSPI was a game-changer for our security strategy; their expertise and professionalism made all the difference.
#7
CISOSHARE

CISOSHARE

4.3 (45 reviews)
Offers a comprehensive roadmap for clients that integrates security program assessments with actionable strategies, setting them apart from competitors who may only provide basic assessments. Provides 'a la carte' security services, allowing businesses to customize their security measures based on specific needs without incurring unnecessary costs.
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Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #Innovative #Affordable #ClientFocused

The Analysis

Pros
  • Offers a comprehensive roadmap for clients that integrates security program assessments with actionable strategies, setting them apart from competitors who may only provide basic assessments.
  • Provides 'a la carte' security services, allowing businesses to customize their security measures based on specific needs without incurring unnecessary costs.
Cons
  • Limited brand recognition compared to larger competitors like NetSPI and Compass IT Compliance, which may affect client trust in high-stakes situations.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

CISOSHARE has transformed my perspective on security assessments, providing a fresh approach that feels more aligned with modern values.
As a former CISO, I appreciate how CISOSHARE emphasizes a thoughtful and respectful approach to security, steering away from outdated terminology.
#8
Breachlock Inc.

Breachlock Inc.

4.2 (22 reviews)
Breachlock Inc. offers automated penetration testing combined with human expertise, allowing for faster turnaround times on reports compared to many competitors.
Get Quote

Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #ExpertSecurity #Reliable #CuttingEdge

The Analysis

Pros
  • Breachlock Inc. offers automated penetration testing combined with human expertise, allowing for faster turnaround times on reports compared to many competitors.
Cons
  • Breachlock Inc. has a narrower geographical focus, primarily serving the US market, which could limit options for international clients.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

Breachlock Inc. provided exceptional penetration testing services that gave us peace of mind about our security. Their team's expertise and professionalism truly set them apart in the industry.
Working with Breachlock was a game changer for our cybersecurity strategy. Their thorough assessments and clear communication made the entire process seamless and reassuring.
#9
Cobalt Labs

Cobalt Labs

4.1 (15 reviews)
Pioneered the Pentest as a Service (PtaaS) model, allowing for faster and more efficient testing cycles compared to traditional methods.
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Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #Innovative #Efficient #Trusted

The Analysis

Pros
  • Pioneered the Pentest as a Service (PtaaS) model, allowing for faster and more efficient testing cycles compared to traditional methods.
Cons
  • May have higher costs associated with its PtaaS model compared to more traditional one-off penetration testing services offered by competitors.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

Cobalt Labs has exceeded my expectations from the very beginning; their team, especially Blake and Taylor, were incredibly professional and attentive throughout the entire process.
I couldn't be happier with my experience at Cobalt Labs-their dedication and kindness made the entire installation seamless and enjoyable.
#10
GuidePoint Security

GuidePoint Security

4.0 (10 reviews)
GuidePoint Security has a robust incident response service with a guaranteed 1-hour response time for critical incidents, which is faster than many competitors.
Get Quote

Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #Proactive #Reliable #Comprehensive

The Analysis

Pros
  • GuidePoint Security has a robust incident response service with a guaranteed 1-hour response time for critical incidents, which is faster than many competitors.
Cons
  • GuidePoint Security's services are primarily focused on the U.S. market, limiting their availability and expertise in international compliance standards compared to companies like ScienceSoft.

Composite Feedback

Representative excerpts based on common themes from verified customer reviews. Not direct quotes.

The staff at GuidePoint Security are incredibly professional and attentive; they made complex topics easy to understand, which really helped me feel more confident in my decisions.
I appreciate the user-friendly platform and the quick responsiveness of the team; they truly prioritize connecting clients with the right expertise in a timely manner.

Before You Hire

Key considerations when evaluating providers in this industry.

1

Serve clients on a national or international level

2

A minimum of five years experience in cybersecurity

3

A minimum of 100 successful penetration tests in the previous three years

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a penetration testing company help in improving the security of a system? +

A penetration testing company improves system security by identifying vulnerabilities and weaknesses in a system's defenses. These professionals simulate cyber-attacks to assess how well a system can withstand an actual attack, providing valuable insights into potential areas of risk. Afterward, they provide detailed reports and recommendations for strengthening security measures, which could involve patching software, changing security policies, or educating employees about potential threats.

Why is it necessary to hire a penetration testing company? +

Hiring a penetration testing company is necessary for businesses to identify and rectify potential security vulnerabilities in their IT infrastructure. These specialists simulate real-world attacks on systems, networks, and applications to uncover weak points that hackers could exploit, thereby proactively safeguarding valuable data and maintaining customer trust. However, the effectiveness can vary between companies, with factors such as methodology, depth of testing, and the expertise of the testing team influencing the quality and usefulness of the results.

How does a penetration testing company conduct its tests? +

A penetration testing company conducts its tests by simulating cyber-attacks on a business's systems to identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers. The process typically involves stages such as reconnaissance, scanning, gaining access, maintaining access, and covering tracks. In addition to these technical aspects, the company often provides a detailed report of the findings to the client and may suggest countermeasures to address the identified issues.

What are the different types of penetration tests that can be conducted? +

Penetration tests can be broadly categorized into three types: black box, white box, and grey box tests. Black box testing simulates an external hacking or cyber attack where the testers have no prior knowledge of the system. In contrast, white box testing gives testers full knowledge and access to the source code and infrastructure to simulate an insider attack. Grey box testing is a combination of the two, where testers have partial knowledge of the system, providing a balanced perspective of potential vulnerabilities.

What is the difference between a vulnerability assessment and a penetration test? +

A vulnerability assessment is a process that identifies and lists vulnerabilities in a system, network, or software. It's primarily focused on finding security weaknesses, but it doesn't necessarily test to see if these vulnerabilities can be exploited. On the other hand, a penetration test, often known as a pen test, is an authorized simulated attack on a system intended to exploit vulnerabilities and assess the potential impact. So while both methods aim to improve system security, a vulnerability assessment is more of a passive examination, whereas a penetration test is a more active, hands-on approach.

How often should a penetration test be conducted? +

The frequency of penetration testing can vary depending on several factors such as the size of the company, the nature of its business, and its regulatory environment. For most companies, especially those dealing with sensitive data, an annual penetration test is the standard. However, companies with higher security risks may need to conduct these tests more frequently, such as quarterly or even monthly, to ensure their defenses are up to par.

What qualifications should a reputable penetration testing company have? +

A reputable penetration testing company should have professionals with recognized certifications such as Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). They should also demonstrate a track record of successful penetration tests with clients across various industries, indicating their ability to handle diverse security architectures. Furthermore, the company should adhere to standard methodologies like the Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP) and use advanced tools for comprehensive testing, while maintaining the integrity of your systems and data.

What industries typically use penetration testing services? +

Penetration testing services are prominently used across a range of industries, particularly those that handle sensitive data and require robust security measures. These include the banking and finance sector, healthcare, information technology, and e-commerce industries, all of which hold vast amounts of personal and financial data that need stringent protection. Additionally, government agencies often employ these services to safeguard national security information and infrastructure against potential cyber threats.

How long does a typical penetration test take? +

The duration of a typical penetration test largely depends on the scope and complexity of the IT environment being tested. For a small to medium-sized business, a thorough penetration test could take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. On the other hand, larger corporations with complex networks and multiple systems may require several weeks to several months for a comprehensive penetration test. It's important for businesses to discuss the estimated timeline with their selected penetration testing company to ensure they can accommodate the disruption and resources necessary for the test.

What factors can affect the cost of hiring a penetration testing company? +

The cost of hiring a penetration testing company can be influenced by several factors. The size and complexity of an organization's IT infrastructure, the scope of the test, and the specific services needed can all impact the final price. For example, a small business with a simple network may pay less than a large corporation with multiple servers and applications that require thorough testing. Additionally, specialized services like social engineering tests or red teaming engagements can add to the cost. Furthermore, the expertise and reputation of the testing company itself can affect pricing - a well-established firm with a strong track record may command higher fees.