Cybersecurity
How Much Does Penetration Testing Cost? A 2026 Breakdown
Penetration testing costs vary widely by scope, complexity, and tester qualification. Here is the honest 2026 price guide by test type.
Penetration testing is no longer a luxury reserved for banks and government agencies. Any business with a web application, API, or digital infrastructure that handles sensitive data should test it. The question most decision-makers ask first is: what does it actually cost?
What penetration testing is
A penetration test is an authorised, simulated cyberattack on a system, network, or application designed to identify vulnerabilities before a malicious actor does. Unlike automated vulnerability scanning (which runs scripts against known signatures), penetration testing involves skilled human testers who think creatively, chain vulnerabilities together, and attempt to achieve specific objectives.
Factors that determine cost
| Factor | Impact | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Scope (what is tested) | Largest single factor | Narrow: $3,000 / Broad: $50,000+ |
| Test type (black/grey/white box) | Significant | White box cheaper — more info given |
| Target complexity | High | Simple web app vs complex microservices |
| Tester seniority | Significant | Junior offshore: $50/hr. Senior onshore: $250+/hr |
| Certifications required | Medium | CREST or OSCP-certified testers command premium |
| Reporting requirements | Medium | Executive summary vs full technical remediation report |
| Retesting after remediation | Additional | 15-30% of initial test cost |
Penetration testing cost by type
Web application penetration test
The most common test type. A skilled tester attempts to exploit vulnerabilities: authentication bypass, SQL injection, XSS, IDOR, business logic flaws, API security issues.
- Simple web app (5-10 pages, basic authentication): $3,000-$8,000
- Medium complexity (e-commerce, SaaS with user roles): $8,000-$20,000
- Complex application (multiple APIs, payment processing): $15,000-$40,000+
API penetration test
Tests REST, GraphQL, or SOAP APIs for authentication weaknesses, authorisation flaws, and rate limiting bypass.
- Simple API (10-20 endpoints): $3,000-$8,000
- Complex API (50+ endpoints): $10,000-$25,000
Network penetration test
- Small internal network (<50 hosts): $5,000-$15,000
- Large enterprise network (500+ hosts): $20,000-$60,000+
Mobile application penetration test
- Single platform (iOS or Android): $5,000-$15,000
- Both platforms: $8,000-$25,000
What a penetration testing engagement includes
Defining the target, rules of engagement, test methodology, timelines, and communication protocols. Responsible testers will not begin without a signed authorisation document.
Gathering information about the target: exposed endpoints, technologies in use, user enumeration, third-party integrations.
Using automated tools and manual testing to identify potential vulnerabilities.
Attempting to exploit identified vulnerabilities to confirm exploitability and assess business impact.
Documenting findings with severity ratings, technical detail, proof-of-concept evidence, and remediation recommendations.
Answering questions about findings and clarifying remediation guidance during the fix process.
How to choose a provider
- Certifications: CREST membership (UK standard), OSCP, CEH indicate tested competency
- Methodology: follow OWASP Testing Guide for web apps, PTES for network testing
- Sample report: ask for a redacted sample — quality of writing determines whether your developers can remediate
- Immediate communication: testers should notify you of critical findings immediately, not wait for the final report
- No conflict of interest: avoid providers who also sell remediation services
A general-purpose pen tester may not know WordPress-specific vulnerabilities: plugin CVEs, wp-admin controls, XML-RPC exploitation, REST API exposure. If testing a WordPress site, ask specifically about WordPress security experience.
Need your web application or WordPress site security tested?
Simple Automation Solutions provides web application security reviews and connects clients with trusted penetration testing providers for specific requirements.
Frequently asked questions
How often should a business run penetration tests?+
At least annually, and after any significant application changes. Regulated industries may require more frequent testing. Run automated vulnerability scanning continuously between formal tests.
Is automated scanning the same as penetration testing?+
No. Automated scanners check known vulnerability patterns and are a valuable starting point, but they miss business logic flaws, complex authentication issues, and chained vulnerabilities that require human reasoning.
Can I test a website I do not own?+
No. Testing any system without explicit written authorisation from the owner is illegal in most jurisdictions regardless of intent. Always obtain a signed Statement of Work before beginning any testing.
