Every business that values data security knows the importance of regular penetration testing. But once the report lands in your inbox, the big question is — what do you actually do with it? Understanding and acting on penetration test results isn’t just about fixing vulnerabilities; it’s about building a stronger, more resilient cybersecurity framework for your business.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to interpret and act on penetration test results effectively, even if you’re not a technical expert. You’ll learn what’s inside a typical pen test report, how to prioritize fixes, and how companies like Atoro help businesses turn insights into measurable security improvements.
What Is a Penetration Test?
A penetration test (or “pen test”) is an ethical hacking exercise where cybersecurity professionals simulate cyberattacks to identify weaknesses in your system, applications, or network. The goal is simple — find the holes before real hackers do.
Why Businesses Conduct Penetration Tests
Penetration testing helps you:
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Detect vulnerabilities before attackers exploit them.
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Meet compliance requirements like SOC 2, ISO 27001, or GDPR.
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Build customer confidence by demonstrating strong cybersecurity.
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Reduce downtime and financial loss due to potential breaches.
Common Types of Penetration Tests
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Network Penetration Testing – Targets internal and external network security.
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Web Application Testing – Examines websites and apps for code-level vulnerabilities.
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Cloud Security Testing – Ensures cloud configurations and access controls are secure.
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API Penetration Testing – Identifies vulnerabilities in communication between applications.
What Is a Penetration Test Result Report?
A penetration test result report is the final document you receive after the testing is complete. It’s your roadmap for improving security. It outlines every vulnerability found, the risk it poses, and how to fix it.
The Role of Pen Test Reports in Cybersecurity
Pen test reports serve as a communication bridge between technical experts and business leaders. They help decision-makers understand the real-world impact of vulnerabilities.
Who Should Review the Report?
Both technical and non-technical stakeholders should review it:
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IT & Security Teams – For technical remediation.
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Executives / Founders – To understand business risks and compliance exposure.
Key Deliverables You Receive After a Pen Test
A comprehensive report usually includes:
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Executive Summary
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Technical Findings
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Vulnerability Severity Ratings
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Remediation Recommendations
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Supporting Evidence (screenshots, test logs, etc.)
Main Components of a Penetration Testing Result Report
Executive Summary
This section offers a high-level overview of the test objectives, overall risk score, and key findings. It’s written in plain English so non-technical teams can understand where the biggest risks lie.
Technical Findings
This section dives deeper, explaining how vulnerabilities were discovered, their potential impact, and how attackers could exploit them.
Risk Ratings and CVSS Scores Explained
Each vulnerability is assigned a CVSS (Common Vulnerability Scoring System) score, typically ranging from 0.0 (Low) to 10.0 (Critical).
These ratings help you prioritize remediation.
Vulnerability Severity Table
| Severity Level | CVSS Score Range | Risk Description | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Critical | 9.0 – 10.0 | Easily exploitable, high impact | Fix immediately |
| High | 7.0 – 8.9 | Serious threat, likely exploitation | Prioritize remediation |
| Medium | 4.0 – 6.9 | Limited impact, but fix soon | Schedule patch |
| Low | 0.1 – 3.9 | Minimal threat | Monitor and document |
| Informational | N/A | No direct risk, but useful info | Review periodically |
How to Interpret Penetration Test Results
Review the Executive Summary
Start here. Understand the overall findings and the number of vulnerabilities detected. This gives you a snapshot of your organization’s risk posture.
Verify Severity and Impact Levels
Don’t just rely on labels like “High” or “Medium.” Ask how each issue affects your business.
For example:
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Does it expose customer data?
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Could it disrupt key operations?
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Is it publicly exploitable?
Understand Root Causes
Identify why each vulnerability exists — misconfigurations, outdated software, weak passwords, etc. Fixing the root cause prevents recurrence.
Prioritize Based on Business Risk
A low-risk issue on your public website might be more important than a high-risk one on an internal tool, depending on business exposure.
Collaborate Across Teams
Encourage communication between IT, compliance, and leadership teams. Everyone needs to understand what’s at stake.
Acting on Pen Test Results
Develop a Structured Remediation Plan
Create a clear action plan outlining:
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Which vulnerabilities to fix first.
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Who is responsible for each fix.
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Estimated timelines for completion.
Assign Responsibilities and Timelines
Assign tasks to developers, network admins, or third-party vendors. Accountability ensures faster fixes.
Implement Fixes and Security Controls
Apply patches, update systems, and strengthen configurations. Document every step — it’s essential for compliance proof.
Validate and Retest Vulnerabilities
Once fixes are applied, conduct a retest to confirm that vulnerabilities are resolved. Many firms, like Atoro, include free retesting in their packages.
Maintain Continuous Security Improvement
Pen testing is not a one-time activity. Schedule regular tests and security audits to maintain ongoing protection.
Common Mistakes When Reviewing Penetration Test Reports
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Ignoring Low-Severity Vulnerabilities – Attackers often chain these together for major exploits.
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Delaying Fixes – Postponing remediation leaves systems exposed longer.
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Not Retesting – Without validation, you can’t be sure issues are truly fixed.
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Lack of Documentation – Always keep track of what was fixed, when, and how.
What Is the End Result of a Penetration Test?
When interpreted and acted upon properly, penetration test results deliver measurable benefits:
Strengthened Security Posture
You’ll reduce the risk of data breaches and cyberattacks significantly.
Compliance Readiness
Pen tests support SOC 2, ISO 27001, and GDPR requirements by proving you proactively manage risk.
Increased Client Trust
Demonstrating strong cybersecurity reassures customers and investors that their data is safe with you.
How Expert Partners Like Atoro Simplify Post-Test Actions
Atoro simplifies the entire post-assessment process through its expert penetration testing services, offering more than just vulnerability reports. The team provides tailored reporting and risk analysis designed for both technical and non-technical audiences, ensuring every stakeholder can take immediate, informed action. Throughout the testing process, Atoro maintains real-time collaboration via Slack, allowing for transparent communication and quicker decision-making.
Once vulnerabilities are fixed, clients benefit from free retesting and verification services to confirm all issues are fully resolved. Beyond testing, Atoro helps organizations create long-term security roadmaps that strengthen resilience and align with overall business goals — making it a trusted partner for businesses seeking continuous cybersecurity improvement.
How Atoro Helped Silktide Achieve SOC2 Compliance
Client: Silktide, a digital analytics platform helping website managers improve accessibility and performance.
The Challenge:
Silktide needed to achieve SOC2 compliance and prove to corporate clients that their systems met rigorous security standards. They required a comprehensive penetration test of their platform, API, and network by certified ethical hackers.
The Solution:
Silktide partnered with Atoro upon recommendation from Vanta. Atoro’s certified team conducted an in-depth assessment, identifying vulnerabilities and providing detailed remediation guidance. A standout feature was the real-time updates via Slack, keeping Silktide informed of every critical finding.
The Outcome:
Silktide successfully addressed all vulnerabilities and completed a complimentary retest with Atoro to validate their fixes. As a result, they were fully prepared for their SOC2 audit and gained stronger client confidence in their security posture.
Client Feedback:
“Atoro delivered on time, kept me informed throughout via Slack. I loved the more hands-on contact they gave. I chose them as I got the feeling they cared more about my project compared to larger corporations.”
— ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ John Doe, COO, Silktide
Read more here: Silktide Achieve SOC2 Compliance.
FAQs
1. What are the results of penetration testing?
The results of penetration testing reveal vulnerabilities in your systems, applications, and network. They include the severity of each issue, potential business impact, and recommendations for remediation to strengthen cybersecurity.
2. What is the penetration test result report?
A penetration test result report is a comprehensive document outlining discovered vulnerabilities, risk levels, technical findings, evidence of exploits, and step-by-step guidance for remediation. It acts as a roadmap for improving security.
3. What are the 5 stages of penetration testing?
The 5 stages of penetration testing are:
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Planning and Reconnaissance
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Scanning and Information Gathering
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Vulnerability Assessment
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Exploitation
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Reporting
4. What is the final stage of a penetration test?
The final stage is Reporting, where testers document all findings, risk assessments, and remediation recommendations for both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
5. What are the 7 phases of penetration testing?
The 7 phases are:
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Pre-engagement Interactions
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Intelligence Gathering
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Threat Modeling
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Vulnerability Analysis
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Exploitation
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Post-Exploitation
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Reporting and Recommendations
6. How to read a standard penetration test?
Start with the executive summary for a high-level overview. Then review technical findings, CVSS scores, and remediation guidance. Focus on risk severity and business impact to prioritize fixes.
7. What is the conclusion of penetration test?
The conclusion summarizes the overall security posture, highlights key vulnerabilities addressed, and provides actionable recommendations for continuous improvement.
8. Is penetration testing good or bad?
Penetration testing is good because it helps organizations proactively identify and fix vulnerabilities before attackers exploit them, reducing the risk of data breaches.
9. What is the grade of penetration test?
Grades or scores in penetration testing are usually determined by CVSS ratings (Critical, High, Medium, Low) or an overall risk score assigned to the organization’s security posture.
10. What is the main purpose of a penetration test?
The main purpose is to identify vulnerabilities, assess potential impacts, and guide remediation efforts to strengthen cybersecurity and ensure compliance with standards like SOC2, ISO 27001, and GDPR.
Conclusion
Interpreting and acting on penetration test results isn’t just about fixing bugs — it’s about fortifying your business against future threats. By understanding your vulnerabilities and taking structured, timely action, you protect your systems, reputation, and customers.
Partner with Atoro for expert penetration testing and post-assessment support — Contact us today.
Author: Thomas McNamara
Thomas McNamara is a Senior Security and Compliance Consultant at Atoro, specializing in SOC 2, ISO 27001, and data protection frameworks. With over 11 years of experience in cybersecurity and risk management, he has guided organizations across multiple industries to achieve compliance excellence and operational security.
Thomas has played a key role in projects like Silktide, K15t, GoCertify, Firemelon, and Heartpace, helping each company streamline audits and strengthen information security posture. His approach combines technical precision with practical business insight, ensuring clients meet regulatory standards efficiently and confidently.
His insights are grounded in real-world experience supporting global enterprises through complex compliance journeys.
Connect with Thomas on LinkedIn to explore more about SOC 2 and ISO 27001 success strategies.
