What is Internal Infrastructure Penetration Testing?
Infrastructure testing rigorously investigates internal networks to identify and exploit a wide range of security vulnerabilities. This enables organisations to determine whether assets such as sensitive data can be compromised, classify the risks posed to overall cyber security, prioritise vulnerabilities to address, and implement recommended actions to mitigate identified risks.
Assessments simulate real-world scenarios, such as a rogue employee, a compromised workstation following a successful phishing attack, or an attacker connected to a physical network port. Testing evaluates internal segmentation, Active Directory configurations, privilege structures, and system patch management to ensure core environments remain resilient.
Key Vulnerabilities Identified
Assessments systematically probe internal assets to locate security weaknesses that could facilitate unauthorised movement or domain compromise. Core focus areas include.
Active Directory and Domain Misconfigurations
Identifying insecure Group Policy Objects (GPOs), Kerberos protocol flaws (such as Kerberoasting or AS-REP Roasting), unconstrained delegation, and excessive domain privileges.
Privilege Escalation Vectors
Uncovering local administrator password reuse across endpoints, unpatched operating system vulnerabilities, and insecure service permissions that allow low-privilege users to gain root or administrator access.
Lateral Movement and Sensitive Data Exposure
Spotting unprotected internal network shares containing cleartext credentials, sensitive databases, or confidential business documents.
Deprecated Protocols and Network Weaknesses
Flagging insecure legacy protocols (such as LLMNR, NBT-NS, or NTLMv1) that allow attackers to capture network hashes or conduct man-in-the-middle attacks.
Unpatched Software and Legacy Systems
Identifying internal servers, network devices, and software running outdated firmware or end-of-life operating systems with known exploits.
A CREST-Accredited Methodology
Every corporate network architecture presents distinct operational challenges, requiring a tailored approach. Assessments blend advanced internal scanning tools with rigorous manual exploitation techniques to uncover complex, multi-stage attack paths that simple vulnerability scanners overlook.
As a CREST-accredited service provider, Cyber Security Specialists guarantees that testing is delivered by highly skilled professionals holding recognised technical certifications such as OSCP and CREST. All testing is conducted in accordance with industry-recognised standards such as CREST, OWASP, and PCI-DSS requirements.
Comprehensive Reporting and Remediation
Following the assessment, a detailed, actionable report is delivered to the internal technical team. This documentation establishes if sensitive assets can be compromised, classifies the risks posed to overall network security, prioritises vulnerabilities to be addressed, and provides clear, technical recommendations for remediation. IT and systems administration teams receive the exact guidance required to harden domain infrastructure and internal systems efficiently.
Secure Internal Networks Today
Penetration testing helps organisations identify and fix vulnerabilities before an attacker can exploit them, reducing risk and protecting core operational infrastructure.
To discuss your specific internal infrastructure penetration testing requirements, please get in touch with a member of the team by emailing info@cybersecurityspecialists.co.uk or calling 0161 706 0244.
