Penetration Testing Companies in the U.S. (2025 Guide)

Explore and Compare the Industry's Top Network and Application Penetration Testing Companies

penetration testing service provider
Penetration Testing Companies (2025)

Manual Penetration Testing Companies in 2025

Why Choosing the Right Partner Is Mission‑Critical

Manual penetration testing is a hands-on approach where experienced testers simulate real-world attacks to uncover critical vulnerabilities across networks, applications, and infrastructure. Unlike automated scans, manual testing delivers deep insights, proof-of-concept exploits, and actionable remediation guidance, making it a vital security layer in 2025’s evolving threat landscape.

First and Foremost, This guide features leading manual penetration testing companies including Rapid7, Secureworks, Core Security and Redbot Security.  These firms specialize in expert-led, controlled testing methodologies that go far beyond vulnerability scanning tools or junior-level service teams.

Table of Contents

Top Manual Penetration Testing Companies in the U.S. (2025)

Cyber Threats Are Rising, Is Your Business Prepared?

Cyber attacks have escalated dramatically in recent years. For starters, cybercriminals now rely on low‑cost, easily accessible tools to breach organizations of every size. While small businesses are often seen as “low‑hanging fruit,” increasingly, mid‑sized enterprises are becoming prime targets, and many are simply not equipped to fend off today’s sophisticated threats.

To counter this trend, one of the most effective ways to strengthen your security posture is through thorough penetration testing and Red Team assessments. By simulating real‑world attacks, these exercises reveal exactly how adversaries could exploit your systems, providing a clear, actionable picture of any defensive gaps.

Moreover, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) explains that penetration testing is invaluable, but only when performed with precision and expertise. Otherwise, poorly managed tests can disrupt operations or even damage critical systems. Consequently, NIST stresses the importance of highly skilled professionals leading the effort.

At its core, effective penetration testing depends on expert‑led execution. Specifically, seasoned cybersecurity teams with mature Red Team capabilities go far beyond surface‑level scans, delivering deep‑dive insights, detailed proof‑of‑concept reporting, and realistic attack simulations. Ultimately, this level of testing is vital for identifying and mitigating risks before threat actors can exploit them.

In short, selecting a trusted penetration‑testing provider with proven Red Team expertise isn’t optional, it’s essential.

Top Ten List of Penetration Testing Companies [Expanded]

To begin with, are you ready to move beyond standard, automated scans and invest in true, hands‑on security testing? In this expanded top‑ten list, we therefore spotlight leading U.S.-based manual penetration testing companies, each known for providing thorough, human‑led assessments rather than surface‑level vulnerability scans. As a result, these specialized firms offer a controlled, deep‑dive approach to uncovering potential weaknesses, going far beyond what automated tools can detect.

Consequently, if your organization needs a trusted cybersecurity partner staffed by seasoned professionals who deliver manual, real‑world penetration testing, this expanded lineup will, ultimately, guide you toward some of the most reputable service providers operating in the U.S. today.

1. Redbot Security

 
Trusted by Enterprises. Powered by Experts. Built for Results.
Redbot Security is a leading U.S.-based penetration testing company delivering expert-led, hands-on security testing for organizations that require more than just checkbox compliance. Specializing in manual penetration testing, Redbot is staffed exclusively by senior-level cybersecurity professionals with over 30 years of combined experience from elite security teams.

Manual Penetration Testing Excellence
Redbot’s core service focuses on deep-dive, manual penetration testing, identifying real-world vulnerabilities across web and mobile applications, internal and external networks, and OT/ICS environments. Each test includes comprehensive proof-of-concept reporting, helping clients understand, remediate, and prevent threats.

Enterprise-Grade Cybersecurity Services
Whether you’re a mid-market business or a Fortune 500 enterprise, Redbot delivers tailored security assessments aligned with your risk profile and compliance requirements. Redbot’s Red Team engagements, cloud security reviews, and firewall configurations provide a complete cybersecurity solution.

Continuous Testing with Redbot Sentry
For organizations seeking ongoing protection, Redbot Sentry offers a cost-effective continuous penetration testing platform that identifies low-hanging vulnerabilities in real time. It’s ideal for companies that want always-on visibility without the cost of repeated one-off tests.

Client-Focused, Expert-Driven
At Redbot, we prioritize transparency, direct access to engineers, and white-glove support throughout the engagement. No outsourcing. No juniors. Just trusted cybersecurity professionals who get the job done right.

Contact:  https://redbotsecurity.com/contact/

 

2. Rapid7

rapid7

Overview:

At Rapid7, we believe in simplifying the complex through shared visibility, analytics, and automation that unite your teams around challenges and successes of cybersecurity. Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive security platform, an assessment to better understand your security posture, or something in between, we’ve got your back.  

Contact

 

3. Secureworks 

SecureWorks

Overview:

Secureworks approaches every penetration test as unique to every organization. Our methodology is performed by the industry’s top security testers, leveraging our proprietary tactics and intelligence from the Secureworks Counter Threat Unit™. Both Penetration and Advanced Penetration Tests are designed to show how an attacker would gain unauthorized access to your environment by compromising in-scope systems and highlight pivoting opportunities from compromised hosts. Based on the findings, Secureworks pen-testing services will discuss the findings with all relevant audiences and provide a customized course of action for both leadership and technical audiences.

Contact: https://secureworks.com

4. FireEye

fireeye
Overview:

FireEye is providing security testing services  and products combat today’s advanced persistent threats (APTs). As an integral piece of an Adaptive Defense strategy, our state-of-the-art network security offerings protect against cyber attacks that bypass traditional signature-based tools such as antivirus software, next-generation firewalls, and sandbox tools. The company offers penetration testing through a 3rd party with additional support for remediation which has them join our Top Penetration Testing Company list. 

Contact: https://www.fireeye.com/

5. VeraCode 

veracode

Overview:

Veracode Manual Penetration Testing (MPT) complements Veracode’s automated scanning technologies with best-in-class penetration testing services to find business logic and other complex vulnerabilities in web, mobile, desktop, back-end and IoT applications. Using a proven process to ensure high customer satisfaction, Veracode MPT provides detailed results, including attack simulations, through the Veracode Application Security Platform, where both manual and automated testing results are assessed against your corporate policy. Developers can consult Veracode application security consultants on the findings and retest uncovered vulnerabilities to verify successful remediation.

Contact: https://www.veracode.com/

 

 6. NetSpi

NetSpi

Overview:

NetSPI is a penetration testing company that is transforming the cyber security testing industry with tech-enabled services and prevention-based cyber security techniques. Global enterprises choose NetSPI’s penetration testing service to test their applications, networks, and cloud infrastructure at scale and manage their attack surfaces.

Contact: https://www.netspi.com/

7. Netragard

Overview:
 
Real Time Dynamic Testing™ is an advanced penetration testing methodology that is unique to Netragard and derived from vulnerability research & exploit development practices. The methodology is highly extensible and often incorporates components from the OWASP, the OSSTMM, bleeding edge offensive tactics, and more. Real Time Dynamic Testing™ can be delivered entirely without automated vulnerability scanning.

Contact: https://netragard.com/

8. Rhino Security Labs

 Rhino Security

Overview:

Rhino Security Labs is a penetration testing company with a focus on network, cloud, and web/mobile application penetration testing services.

As a deep-dive security testing provider, we uncover vulnerabilities that put your organization at risk and provide guidance to mitigate them.  We bring together security research, proprietary technologies, and industry-leading security engineers to create the best penetration testing firm in the industry.  So whether your focus is the external network, complex web applications, in the AWS cloud, or social engineering testing, we have the specialists to fit your unique needs.

Contact: https://rhinosecuritylabs.com/company/


 

9. Coalfire

 Coalfire

Overview:

Coalfire helps organizations comply with global financial, government, industry, and healthcare mandates while helping build the IT infrastructure and security systems that will protect their business from security breaches and data theft. The company is a leading provider of IT advisory services for security in retail, payments, healthcare, financial services, higher education, hospitality, government, and utilities.

Contact: https://www.coalfire.com/about

10. Fortra’s Core Security

 CoreSecurity

Overview:

Fortra’s Core Security is a leading provider of cyber threat prevention and identity governance solutions that help companies proactively prevent, detect, test, and monitor risk in their business.

With more than 25 years of experience in cybersecurity and risk management, our team of experts and award-winning solutions empower organizations to stay one step ahead and intelligently safeguard critical data and assets—protecting what’s most important to their business. 

Contact: https://www.coresecurity.com/about

  Also Learn About  best red team companies

Choosing a Penetration Testing Company in 2025

  • Q: What industries need manual pen testing?
    A: All industries benefit, especially finance, healthcare, energy, and SaaS providers.

  • Q: How often should pen testing be performed?
    A: At least annually, or after major changes to systems or infrastructure.

  • Q: How is manual testing different from a vulnerability assessment?
    A: Manual testing simulates real attacks and provides proof-of-concept exploits, while assessments are scan-based and high-level.

Why Choose a U.S. Penetration Testing Company with Senior-Level Testers

Choosing a U.S.-based pen test company ensures data sovereignty, responsiveness, and local compliance alignment. Working with senior-level testers guarantees higher quality testing, reduced risk during engagement, and clear, actionable reporting that delivers value to both technical and executive teams.

Penetration Testing Company Location Security Platform
Redbot Security
Denver, CO USA
Rapid 7
Boston, Ma USA
Secureworks
Atlanta, GA USA
XDR
Mandiant (google cloud)
Reston, VA USA
Veracode
Burlington, MA USA
NetSpi
Lehi, Utah USA
Netragard
Marlborough, MA USA
None
Rhino Security
Seattle, WA USA
None
CoalFire
Westminster, CO USA
Core Security (fortra)
Eden Prairie, MN USA

List of Penetration Testing Companies Worldwide

Also Read : offensive security companies

Additional industry websites with pen-testing service provider reviews

Need More? Additional Penetration Testing Information below:

What is Penetration Testing?

To begin with, penetration testing, often called “pen testing”, is a proactive method of evaluating an organization’s defenses through a controlled, ethical‑hacking engagement. In practice, the scope of the test is clearly defined, and a penetration‑testing company then attempts to breach the target environment to expose and exploit network weaknesses.

Next, the process typically identifies a specific system (or group of systems) and sets measurable objectives. Once targets and goals are established, the testing team conducts reconnaissance and discovery, and then executes attacks designed to meet those objectives.

Depending on your security needs, a penetration‑test project can follow several models:

  • White‑box testing, where credentials and network details are shared, a common choice for insider‑threat assessments.

  • Black‑box testing, where no information is provided beyond, for example, a web‑app IP address, ideal for simulating an external attacker.

  • Gray‑box testing, which combines both approaches, sharing some, but not all, critical information.

Ultimately, a penetration test determines whether your systems are vulnerable to attackers, be they hackers, organized criminals, or nation‑state actors. More importantly, it pinpoints the potential business impact of each vulnerability and recommends targeted remediation steps. By delivering verified findings, often chained into realistic exploit scenarios complete with proof of concept, a thorough manual pen test gives your organization the clarity it needs to reduce risk effectively.

What are the different types of Penetration Testing?

There are several types of penetration tests, each focusing on different aspects and potential vulnerabilities. Some of the most common types include:

  1. Black Box Penetration Testing: The tester has no knowledge of the systems being tested, simulating an attack from a malicious outsider without prior knowledge of the target system.

  2. White Box Penetration Testing (or Clear Box): The tester has full knowledge of the systems being tested, including network diagrams, source code, and other critical details. This approach can uncover vulnerabilities that may not be detected in a black-box approach.

  3. Grey Box Penetration Testing: This is a combination of both black and white box testing. The tester has partial knowledge of the system, which helps in identifying vulnerabilities faster than in black box testing but still simulates a semi-informed attacker.

  4. External Penetration Testing: Focuses on vulnerabilities in external-facing assets like websites, DNS servers, email servers, etc. The objective is to identify vulnerabilities that external attackers could exploit.

  5. Internal Penetration Testing: Concentrates on what might happen if the defenses are breached or if an insider decides to attack. It simulates an internal threat.

  6. Red Team Testing: A more comprehensive approach where a team tries to simulate real-world attacks on an organization using any means possible to understand the organization’s security posture and readiness level. This is often more scenario-driven than traditional penetration tests.

  7. Blue Team Testing: The blue team is responsible for defending against the red team’s attempts. While not a type of penetration test in the traditional sense, blue-team activities complement red-team operations.

  8. Purple Team Testing: This is a collaborative approach that involves both red and blue teams working together to improve an organization’s security posture.

  9. Physical Penetration Testing: Focuses on testing physical security measures, such as bypassing door locks, tailgating employees into secured areas, or accessing secure server rooms.

  10. Social Engineering Testing:Aims to exploit human psychology rather than technical vulnerabilities. Methods can include phishing emails, baiting, tailgating, or any other technique that leverages human interaction.

  11. Web Application Penetration Testing: Specifically targets web-based applications, looking for vulnerabilities like SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and cross-site request forgery (CSRF), among others.

  12. Wireless Penetration Testing: Concentrates on wireless networks (Wi-Fi) and aims to exploit vulnerabilities associated with wireless protocols and configurations.

  13. Cloud Penetration Testing: Focuses on vulnerabilities in cloud environments, be it Infrastructure as a Service (PaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), or Software as a Service (SaaS) setups.

  14. IoT Penetration Testing: Focuses on vulnerabilities in Internet of Things devices, which can range from smart home appliances to industrial control systems.

 

What are the Benefits of Penetration Testing?

Penetration testing benefits your organization far beyond a single vulnerability scan: it pinpoints hidden weaknesses, drives rapid remediation, fortifies your security posture, proves compliance readiness, and sharpens employee cyber‑hygiene, all in one proactive engagement. In today’s threat‑laden landscape, investing in a manual pen‑test isn’t merely best practice; it’s the most cost‑effective way to stay one step ahead of attackers while satisfying regulators and stakeholders alike

  • First and foremost, identify security vulnerabilities: penetration testing uncovers weaknesses you may not be aware of gaps attackers could exploit to gain unauthorized access.
  • Next, fix those vulnerabilities: by revealing concrete issues, a pen test guides targeted remediation, thereby reducing the likelihood and impact of future attacks.
  • In turn, improve your overall security posture: closing confirmed gaps makes the organization more resilient and markedly less attractive to threat actors.
  • Moreover, meet compliance requirements: many industries mandate proof of ongoing security efforts, and a documented pen test demonstrates due diligence and regulatory alignment.
  • Finally increase employee awareness: the testing process, and the accompanying reports highlight real‑world risks, encouraging staff to adopt stronger security practices and minimize human error.

When should your organization perform a Penetration Test?

  • Seek Penetration Testing Services when you have network infrastructure, devices, or applications updates
  • Upgrades, Modifications, Patches, and Firewall Changes made to infrastructure and applications
  • When Policy, Compliance, and regulation change. its time to order a penetration test
  • New locations should be Pen-tested

Penetration Testing Services: Bridging Compliance Gaps

First and foremost, today’s heavily regulated landscape demands that organizations continuously gauge their compliance posture. Consequently, penetration‑testing services have become an invaluable supplement to traditional audits, shining a light on gaps that routine checklists may miss. For example, seasoned testers frequently breach a perimeter simply because one server missed a critical patch or a “temporary” device became a long‑term fixture, both clear indicators of non‑compliance. Moreover, most regulations explicitly require ongoing system auditing and security verification, making a well‑executed pen test doubly beneficial.

When evaluating U.S. penetration‑testing organizations, remember that scopes can vary widely. Therefore, define your objectives and expectations early. Otherwise, larger firms whose senior engineers focus on complex, time‑intensive engagements, may decline smaller projects. In Contrast, specialized providers often excel at targeted network and application penetration testing, delivering the deep‑dive insights needed to close compliance gaps and harden defenses.

What are the Questions to ask of a Penetration Testing Company?

  • Where are they located?  Is the Penetration Testing Company in the United States? 
  • Do they perform vulnerability scans or provide accurate manual testing?
  • Do they have proof of concept reporting?  (not a vulnerability scan, but actual testing results with screenshots of exploitation)
  • Do they use Full-time background-checked U.S. Employees, or do they use independent contractors ( not advised due to security of data )
  • Are their certifications and credentials verifiable?
  • What is their availability? 

Once you have identified the best penetration testing firm for your project, the report delivered is just as important as the test’s quality. Penetration Testing Reporting should include remediation recommendations, and vulnerabilities should be classified as Critical, High, Moderate, Low, and Informational. 

How to Plan for Penetration Testing

  • Are the engineers assigned to your project Senior Level or Junior Level
  • What is the time box for the testing period?
  • Is your budget in place
  • What are your goals for the test? (e.g., escalation of privileges, proof of defacement, evidence of critical system access
  • Compliance requirements
  • Report Audience ( Executive level reporting, technical reporting, Customer facing redacted Pen-test report)
  • Specialty Penetration testing (ICS/SCADA, IoT)
  • Retesting requirements ( are retests built into service/ statement of work)
  • Penetration Testing Services – is the Vendor Full-Service? (can they help with remediation and offer additional cybersecurity services)
  • Recurring Penetration Test (is the penetration testing company a one-off or a potential ongoing security partner)
  • Penetration Testing ROI

Conclusion

We hope this penetration testing guide has been useful in your search to find the right company for your project. Finding the best penetration testing firm, specifically for your project is not challenging if you do your homework. There are many Penetration Testing Service Providers based in the USA that provide controlled Penetration Testing Services. You should consider experience, credentials, scoping documentation, and customer service quality to identify the best penetration testing firm for your project. Below, you will find additional information that contains questions to ask a penetration testing company, along with additional helpful information.

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Penetration Testing References

NIST states: “Penetration testing services can be invaluable, but it is labor-intensive and requires great expertise to minimize the risk to targeted systems. Systems may be damaged or otherwise rendered inoperable during the course of penetration testing, even though the organization benefits in knowing how a system could be rendered inoperable by an intruder. Although experienced penetration testers can mitigate this risk, it can never be fully eliminated. Penetration testing should be performed only after careful consideration, notification, and planning.”

NIST 800 Warns “that caution should be exercised when performing physical security testing—security guards should be made aware of how to verify the validity of tester activity, such as via a point of contact or documentation. Another nontechnical means of attack is the use of social engineering, such as posing as a help desk agent and calling to request a user’s passwords, or calling the help desk posing as a user and asking for a password to be reset. “

NIST SP 800-115

“Penetration testing can be useful for determining:

  • How well the system tolerates real-world-style attack patterns
  • The likely level of sophistication an attacker needs to successfully compromise the system
  • Additional countermeasures that could mitigate threats against the system
  • Defenders’ ability to detect attacks and respond appropriately.

Penetration testing can be invaluable, but it is labor-intensive and requires great expertise to minimize the risk to targeted systems. Systems may be damaged or otherwise rendered inoperable during the course of penetration testing, even though the organization benefits in knowing how a system could be rendered inoperable by an intruder. Although experienced penetration testers can mitigate this risk, it can never be fully eliminated. Penetration testing should be performed only after careful consideration, notification, and planning”

Supplemental guidance for the RA controls can be found in the following documents:

  • NIST SP 800-30 provides guidance on conducting risk assessments and updates [79].
  • NIST SP 800-39 provides guidance on risk management at all organizational levels [20].
  • NIST SP 800-40 provides guidance on handling security patches [40].
  • NIST SP 800-115 provides guidance on network security testing [41].
  • NIST SP 800-60 provides guidance on determining security categories for information types [25].
  • NIST SP 800-100 provides guidance on information security governance and planning [27].

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