How can you build a network security testing team that is both technically skilled and business savvy?

1 Define the scope and goals of the team

Before you start recruiting and training your network security testing team, you need to define the scope and goals of the team. What are the specific types of tests that the team will perform? What are the expected outcomes and deliverables of each test? How will the team align with the overall network security strategy and policies of the organization? How will the team communicate and collaborate with other stakeholders, such as network engineers, system administrators, and business owners? By defining the scope and goals of the team, you can clarify the roles and responsibilities of each team member, as well as the skills and competencies required for each role.

2 Hire and train diverse and talented testers

Once you have defined the scope and goals of the team, you need to hire and train diverse and talented testers who can perform the tests effectively and efficiently. You need testers who have a strong foundation in network security concepts, such as protocols, encryption, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems. You also need testers who have hands-on experience and certifications in various network security testing tools and techniques, such as Nmap, Metasploit, Wireshark, and Burp Suite. Additionally, you need testers who have soft skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. You should also look for testers who have diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and specialties, such as web application security, wireless security, or cloud security. By hiring and training diverse and talented testers, you can create a team that can handle different scenarios and challenges, as well as learn from each other.

3 Establish a testing methodology and framework

To ensure consistency and quality in your network security testing team, you need to establish a testing methodology and framework that guides the team through the entire testing process. A testing methodology is a set of principles and best practices that define the objectives, scope, approach, and ethics of network security testing. A testing framework is a set of tools, templates, and standards that support the execution, reporting, and management of network security testing. For example, you can use the NIST SP 800-115 Technical Guide to Information Security Testing and Assessment as a reference for your testing methodology, and you can use the Open Source Security Testing Methodology Manual (OSSTMM) as a reference for your testing framework. By establishing a testing methodology and framework, you can ensure that your team follows a systematic and rigorous approach to network security testing.

5 Continuously improve and innovate the testing

Finally, to build a network security testing team that is both technically skilled and business savvy, you need to continuously improve and innovate the testing. You need to monitor and measure the performance and quality of the testing, and identify the strengths and weaknesses of the team. You also need to collect and analyze feedback and lessons learned from the testing, and implement changes and improvements accordingly. Furthermore, you need to keep up with the latest trends and developments in network security testing, and adopt new tools and techniques that can enhance the testing. Additionally, you need to encourage and foster a culture of learning and innovation within the team, and provide opportunities for training, mentoring, and professional development. By continuously improving and innovating the testing, you can ensure that your network security testing team stays relevant, competitive, and effective in the dynamic and complex network security landscape.