Penetration testing (pen-testing) methodologies provide structured frameworks for assessing the security of systems, networks, or applications. These methodologies guide penetration testers through systematic approaches to identify vulnerabilities, exploit weaknesses, and assess the overall security posture of an organization.

structured approaches for identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities in a system.

• Open-Source Security Testing Methodology Manual.
• Open Web Application Security Project.
• Penetration Testing Execution Standard.
• Information System Security Assessment Framework.
• National Institute of Standards and Technology.