Internal Infrastructure Testing
Internal infrastructure testing is a targeted security assessment that focuses on the systems, devices and services inside your organisation’s network. It simulates what could happen if an attacker gained access to your internal environment through social engineering, a malicious insider or an external breach that moves laterally. This type of testing helps identify weaknesses that may not be visible from outside your network but could have serious consequences if exploited.
Why It Matters
Most businesses invest heavily in protecting their external facing assets but often overlook the risks that exist within their own network. Once inside, an attacker may encounter minimal resistance due to misconfigured systems, outdated software or poor access controls.
Internal infrastructure testing evaluates these risks in a realistic way. It helps you understand what an attacker could do if they had access to your internal systems and what information they might be able to reach. From accessing file shares, to escalating privileges or moving laterally across the network, the aim is to uncover the paths an attacker could take and close them before they are discovered by someone with malicious intent.
Key Benefits
Reduced Risk of Insider Threats
The test highlights vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious insiders or staff who unknowingly introduce risks into the environment.
Protection Against Lateral Movement
Identifies weak points that allow attackers to move between systems once inside the network which is a common tactic used in advanced attacks.
Compliance and Best Practice
Supports compliance with standards such as ISO 27001, Cyber Essentials Plus and NIS2 which often require regular internal security assessments.
Improved Network Hygiene
Exposes legacy systems, insecure protocols and poor password practices that could otherwise go unnoticed in day to day operations.
How It Is Carried Out
Internal infrastructure testing is usually performed on-site or via secure remote access. The tester begins by surveying the internal environment to identify systems, user accounts, open ports and network services. From there they will attempt to find weaknesses such as insecure configurations, missing patches or exposed administrative interfaces.
The assessment may include password cracking, privilege escalation, man in the middle (MiTM) techniques and lateral movement to simulate how an attacker could pivot through your network. Special attention is given to domain controllers, shared resources and devices with elevated privileges.
The process is designed to be non disruptive and findings are documented with clear risk ratings and remediation advice. You will receive a report outlining every issue found along with practical steps to resolve them.
Final Thoughts
Internal infrastructure testing is essential for understanding and managing the risks that exist within your organisation’s own walls. By assessing your internal systems you can reduce the likelihood of a successful attack from within and improve your overall security posture.
Whether you are preparing for an audit, securing a hybrid workforce or simply want peace of mind that your internal environment is not an easy target, this type of testing provides clear measurable value. It turns assumptions into facts and helps you take meaningful steps towards a more secure and resilient organisation.