Ideally, penetration testing should be done every year at least. This regular cadence is necessary to maintain consistent IT and network security. Remember, the testing will expose newly discovered threats that could be exploited by malicious hackers, so it’s important to run tests at least annually.
Some regulations require tests to be performed under specific circumstances, including when:
- Introducing new network infrastructure or applications.
- Implementing significant upgrades or modifications to existing infrastructure or applications.
- Establishing new office locations.
- Applying security patches.
- Modifying end-user policies.