As threat actors grow faster, stealthier, and more persistent, the approach to pentesting needs to keep evolving. Traditional, periodic assessments no longer keep up with rapidly changing attack surfaces. Static tests offer a snapshot, but attackers see a live stream. Security testing needs to shift testing models to mirror how real-world attackers operate.
At Sprocket Security, our Continuous Penetration Testing (CPT) solution is an always on, always active, and hybrid pentesting model.
In this article, we will compare the most common models — Point-in-Time Pentests, PTaaS, Bug Bounty Programs, Automated Tools, and Continuous Penetration Testing — to explore why CPT is emerging as the most effective model for proactive security teams.
The Current Landscape of Penetration Testing Options
Pentesting isn’t one size fits all. Thus, multiple models have emerged, each attempting to balance depth, speed, and coverage. But not all pentests are created equal.
Understanding how these approaches differ is critical to choosing the right offensive security strategy for your organization.
Below, we break down the five most common models by strengths, limitations, and where they fit in a proactive security program.
1. Point-in-Time Pentest
What it is: Scheduled manual tests, often annual or quarterly, focused on predefined scopes.
Strengths: Thorough, compliance-friendly, human-driven.
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