TL;DR
Hiring a pentester for your home network can reveal weaknesses you didn’t know existed, helping you improve your cyber security. This guide explains what to expect and how to use the results.
What Does a Pentest Cover?
A penetration test (pentest) simulates a real-world attack on your home network. It goes beyond basic vulnerability scans. A good pentester will look at:
- Routers & Firewalls: Checking for weak passwords, outdated firmware, and misconfigurations.
- Wireless Network (Wi-Fi): Assessing the strength of your encryption (WPA2/WPA3), looking for vulnerabilities like WPS flaws.
- Computers & Devices: Identifying unpatched software, malware, and weak security settings on laptops, phones, smart TVs, etc.
- Internet of Things (IoT) devices: Testing the security of cameras, thermostats, speakers – often overlooked but vulnerable.
- Cloud Services: If you use cloud storage or other services linked to your network, they may be included in scope.
Step-by-Step: What to Expect
- 1. Find a Reputable Pentester: This is crucial! Look for someone with good reviews and experience. Ask about their methodology and reporting style. Avoid anyone offering ‘guaranteed’ fixes – pentesting *finds* problems, fixing them is separate.
- Check online directories like CREST or Offensive Security Certified Professionals (OSCP) lists.
- Ask for references from previous clients.
- 2. Scope Definition: Clearly define what you want tested. This avoids unexpected costs and ensures the pentest focuses on your priorities.
- List all devices connected to your network (IP addresses are helpful).
- Specify any services or areas *not* to be included (e.g., don’t test a work laptop if you’re not allowed).
- Agree on the rules of engagement – what actions are permitted during the test.
- 3. The Pentest: The pentester will use various tools and techniques to identify vulnerabilities.
- This might involve scanning your network, attempting to crack passwords, or exploiting known software flaws.
- They should be discreet and avoid disrupting your normal internet usage as much as possible.
- 4. The Report: This is the most valuable part! A good report will:
- Summarise Findings: Provide a clear overview of all identified vulnerabilities, ranked by severity (High, Medium, Low).
- Detailed Explanations: Explain *how* each vulnerability was found and what impact it could have.
- Remediation Advice: Offer practical steps to fix the problems – this is where you’ll learn the most! For example:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade(This updates software packages on a Debian/Ubuntu system.)
- Proof of Concept (PoC): Some reports include PoCs demonstrating how an attacker could exploit the vulnerability. This can be eye-opening.
- 5. Understanding the Report & Taking Action: Don’t panic! Prioritise fixes based on severity and impact.
- High Severity Issues: Address these *immediately*. Examples include default passwords, critical software flaws, or open ports exposing sensitive services.
- Medium Severity Issues: Fix these as soon as possible. Examples might be weak encryption protocols or outdated firmware.
- Low Severity Issues: These are less urgent but should still be addressed eventually.
What You Might Learn (and How to Fix It)
- Weak Passwords: Change all default passwords on your router, devices, and online accounts. Use strong, unique passwords or a password manager.
- Outdated Firmware: Regularly update the firmware on your router and other devices. Check the manufacturer’s website for updates.
- Open Ports: Close unnecessary ports on your router’s firewall. Use port scanning tools (like nmap) to identify open ports:
nmap -p 1-65535 [your_router_ip] - Vulnerable Software: Keep all software up to date, including your operating system, web browsers, and applications.
- Poor Wi-Fi Security: Use WPA3 encryption if your devices support it. Disable WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) – it’s often vulnerable.
Cost
Home network pentests can range from £500 to £2,000+ depending on the scope and complexity of your network. It’s an investment in your cyber security.