Ethical hacking, also known as penetration testing, involves authorized hackers using the same methods as black hat hackers to test network security. This helps identify vulnerabilities and prevent real attacks. Network security uses tools and policies to prevent unauthorized access to data or resources. Gray hat hackers work without permission and are considered criminals.
The basic connection between network security and ethical hacking is that white hat hackers can be used to test the integrity of a network. These ethical hackers use many of the same methods as criminal or black hat hackers, but operate with the permission of the network owner. This type of ethical hacking is sometimes referred to as penetration testing, as it can be used to simulate real attacks. By observing this type of tightly controlled hacking, any vulnerabilities in a network’s security can be identified and addressed before a real attack occurs. This can ultimately save an organization money, prevent theft of valuable information, and prevent disruption to services.
The concept of network security refers to preventing unauthorized access to data or system resources. A network administrator can use a variety of tools and policies to create a secure environment. Public and private networks can both use various forms of security, since any network that includes data not intended for public consumption typically requires some type of security. This can be anything from a password protected authentication system to a complex firewall. Network security can also include different layers of protection, such as a company allowing customers access to their Wi-Fi connection but not the contents of their computers.
Network security and ethical hacking are two closely related concepts, as one is essentially defined by the other. White hat hacking is considered ethical because it is authorized by the owner or operator of a network to test the limits of a security system. Unlike a black hat hacker who breaks into a system for personal gain or to harm an organization, ethical hackers are employed to identify vulnerabilities so they can be fixed. Penetration testing typically involves direct attacks on a network using various hacking techniques and tools, but it is also possible for an ethical hacker to use other methods such as phishing or even physically breaking into a data center.
There is also another type of hacker, called a gray hat. While network security and ethical hacking go hand-in-hand with permission from a network administrator, gray hat hackers work without such permission. Their activities can reveal network vulnerabilities before actual malicious attacks just like authorized penetration testing, but they are still considered criminals by most authorities.
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