Introduction to Penetration Tester Roles Penetration testers are highly skilled cybersecurity professionals who employ hacking techniques to identify vulnerabilities within an organization's IT infrastructure. They simulate real-world cyberattacks, uncovering weaknesses in networks, applications, and systems before malicious actors can leverage them. Their role is crucial in proactively bolstering an organization's security posture and mitigating cybersecurity risks. Penetration testing engagements typically follow a structured methodology, often based on the Penetration Testing Execution Standard (PTES). This framework outlines the different phases of a penetration test, from planning and scoping to execution and reporting. Pen testers work closely with security teams and stakeholders throughout the process, ensuring a comprehensive assessment and clear communication of identified vulnerabilities. There are various specializations within the pen testing field. Some t