In the world of cybersecurity, the debate between Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) and traditional penetration testing is like comparing a high-tech drone to a trusty old bicycle. Sure, the bicycle has its charm, but the drone is just so much cooler and more efficient!
First off, let’s talk about the frequency. Traditional penetration testing is like that annual dentist visit – you know you need it, but you dread it, and it only happens once in a blue moon. CTEM, on the other hand, is like having a personal trainer who’s with you every step of the way, making sure you’re always in tip-top shape. With CTEM, you get continuous monitoring and real-time intelligence, so you’re never caught off guard by a cyber threat or exposure. Organisations that use CTEM report a 30% drop in cyber incidents due to its continuous nature in terms of assessment and visibility.
Now, imagine traditional penetration testing as a surprise pub quiz. It’s stressful, demanding and you only find out what you didn’t know after the fact, after the quiz is over. CTEM, however, is like having the answers to the test beforehand. It provides ongoing assessments and helps you address, validate and prioritise vulnerabilities before they become a problem. We see a reduction in remediation time of up to 55% when a CTEM approach is applied.
Then there’s the dynamism and adaptability factor; Traditional penetration testing is a bit like using a map from the 1800s to navigate modern-day Dublin – it’s outdated and static. It was correct one but is a point-in-time view and doesn’t account for the ever-changing landscape. CTEM, in contrast, is like having a GPS that updates in real-time, guiding you through the twists and turns of the cybersecurity world with ease.
And let’s not forget the cost. Traditional penetration testing can be a bit like buying a fancy suit you’ll only wear once or twice a year. CTEM, however, is more like investing in a wardrobe that keeps you looking sharp all year round. It’s cost-effective, reduces the resources required to maintain a robust posture and provides ongoing value. I’ve seen companies reduce overall security costs by up to 50% by implementing CTEM.
In conclusion, while traditional penetration testing has its place, CTEM is the way forward. It’s continuous, adaptable, and cost-effective – and let’s face it, who wouldn’t want a personal trainer for their cybersecurity? So, hop on the CTEM bandwagon and leave those outdated methods in the dust, reduce cost and improve security posture. What’s not to like?
Finally… What’s the difference between CTEM and ASPM (Application Security Posture Management)?
Key Differences
- Scope: CTEM covers a broader range of security postures, including networks, endpoints, and cloud environments, while ASPM is specifically focused on application security.
- Lifecycle: CTEM is a continuous process that spans the entire organisation’s security landscape, whereas ASPM is centred around the application lifecycle.
- Integration: ASPM integrates security into the SDLC, ensuring that applications are secure from the ground up. CTEM differs as it continuously monitors and manages threats across all aspects of the organisation’s infrastructure.
In summary, while both CTEM and ASPM are essential for a robust cybersecurity strategy, they serve different purposes. CTEM provides a holistic approach to managing threats across the entire organisation, whereas ASPM ensures that applications are secure throughout their lifecycle. Together, they form a comprehensive defence against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. Edgescan provides both due to its full stack approach; deep Web application and API assessments coupled with endpoint, cloud and network exposure management continuously.
