How to Become a Penetration Tester

As cybersecurity threats grow in complexity, organizations are increasingly turning to specialized professionals who can proactively identify and fix vulnerabilities before malicious hackers can exploit them.

This is where penetration testers, or "pen testers," come in. These experts simulate attacks on digital systems to uncover security weaknesses, making them vital to any robust cybersecurity strategy.

A career as a penetration tester offers a blend of technical challenge and problem-solving, with high demand across industries such as finance, healthcare, and government. This guide provides a clear roadmap on how to break into this exciting field, whether you're just starting or looking to transition from another area of IT.

Who Is a Penetration Tester?

A penetration tester is a cybersecurity professional who specializes in identifying security gaps by simulating attacks on networks, applications, and systems. Unlike malicious hackers, penetration testers are authorized to perform these tests, providing organizations with a detailed analysis of their vulnerabilities and how to fix them.

They play a crucial role in strengthening an organization's defences by uncovering weaknesses that could be exploited in real-world attacks. While often confused with ethical hackers, penetration testers focus specifically on the practical aspects of simulating cyberattacks, rather than the broader scope of security assessments that ethical hackers might perform.

How Much Does a Penetration Tester Earn?

Penetration testers can earn competitive salaries, especially as they gain experience and expertise. According to Glassdoor, entry-level penetration testers earn an average of $81,000 to $148,000 per year.

With several years of experience, this can rise to between $109,000 and $147,000. In senior roles, particularly in high-demand industries like finance and healthcare, salaries can exceed $200,000 annually.

Certifications, location, and the size of the organization also influence earnings, with cities like San Francisco and New York offering some of the highest compensation due to demand.