Cloud penetration testing refers to the automated or manual exploitation of vulnerabilities identified by a vulnerability assessment scanner or a security expert that mimics hacker behavior to find weaknesses.
Identifying vulnerabilities enables cloud providers and customers to prioritize data security, helping prevent breaches like the February 2024 23andMe incident, 700+ million users’ private information. As such, to help you get started, our experts have curated 14 cloud penetration testing tools to help secure your cloud environments.
14 Best Cloud Penetration Testing Tools
- Astra Pentest
- Intruder
- Nessus
- Scout Suite
- Pacu
- Nmap
- AWS Inspector
- CloudBrute
- MicroBurst
- SkyArk
- BurpSuite
- Qualys
- Sophos
- Guidepoint Security

Why Astra is the best in Cloud Pentesting?
- We’re the only company that combines artificial intelligence & manual pentest to create a one-of-a-kind pentest platform.
- Runs 180+ test cases based on industrial standards.
- Integrates with your CI/CD tools to help you establish DevSecOps.
- A dynamic vulnerability management dashboard to manage, monitor, assign, and update vulnerabilities.
- Award publicly verifiable pentest certificates which you can share with your users.
- Helps you stay compliant with SOC2, ISO27001, PCI-DSS, HIPAA, etc.
- Trusted by the brands you trust like Agora, Spicejet, Muthoot, Dream11, etc.

Factors in Choosing the Right Cloud Pentesting Tool
Cloud security companies are aplenty; thus, choosing the right third-party cloud testing tools for pentests can be difficult. Here are some factors to keep in mind and why you must do so:
- CI/CD Integration: The cloud pentesting tool should be easily integrated into your system for automated scanning after every update.
- Experience and Reputation: The company’s expertise in conducting the pentest is very important, as the skill of the pentesters and the range of tests conducted by the company are determined by it.
- Compliance Checks: What compliances do you want to achieve, and does the pentest service provide compliance-specific scanning?
- Tailored Requirements: Cloud pentest companies should be able to tailor the pentest according to your organizational demands and its assets.
- Pricing and Scalability: Are the prices offered affordable and within budget? Does it provide an option to scale up its services based on your growing demands?
- Advanced Functionalities: Features like scan-behind-login, customizable reports, and business logic error detection are not offered by every company but are required for high-quality pentesting.
Detailed Review of Best Cloud Penetration Testing Tools
Evaluation Criteria: Our evaluation criteria for choosing these cloud penetration testing tools centers around cloud provider coverage (AWS, Azure, GCP), ensuring support for multi-cloud environments. We prioritized tools offering a combination of automated scanning and specialized penetration testing techniques, such as those targeting serverless functions or cloud-specific misconfigurations. Actionable reporting, remediation guidance, and seamless integration with existing security workflows were also key considerations. Finally, we balanced functionality with pricing, including open-source options, to cater to various budgets and organizational needs.
1. Astra Pentest

Astra Pentest is a leading provider of continuous cloud pentesting services, combining both manual and AI-powered pentesting solutions to run various tests and compliance-specific scans such as GDPR, ISO 27001, SOC2, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS.
With tests covering Azure, GCP, and AWS infrastructures, we aid in cloud vulnerability management to ensure a seamless pentesting experience with zero false positive assurance, a CXO-friendly dashboard, and an easy-to-navigate interface. With real-time reporting, a detailed list and analysis of all the CVEs, along with their CVSS scores and remediation steps, is shared with your team.
Pros
- Carries out scans-behind-logins and detects business logic errors.
- Has a comprehensive vulnerability scanner with an option to rescan once vulnerabilities are fixed.
- It provides gap analysis for companies to find gaps in their security measures.
- All-around customer care is provided, and queries are answered via email or phone if necessary.
- Astra Pentest Certificate provided upon remediation of found vulnerabilities.
- CI/CD integration is possible, allowing the move from DevOps to DevSecOps.
Cons
- Trial available at $7
Why did we choose Astra Pentest?
Astra Pentest is known for its comprehensive approach to cloud penetration testing, combining AI-powered automation with manual expertise. Their coverage of major cloud providers (Azure, GCP, and AWS), compliance-specific scans, and assured zero false positives make it a strong choice for organizations with diverse cloud environments and stringent regulatory requirements. The real-time reporting, detailed CVE analysis, and remediation guidance further streamline the vulnerability management process.
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2. Intruder

As one of the cloud security testing tools, Intruder is available for Azure, GCP, and AWS. It continuously performs incredibly thorough scans that can identify weaknesses.
Organizations may take action on vulnerabilities depending on their severity rating and monitor their attack surfaces for any changes or flaws that can expose them online.
Pros
- Helps with cloud vulnerability management in Azure, GCP, and AWS.
- Provides real-time intruder alerts.
Cons
- The reports could be more detailed.
- The Integrations could be widened.
3. Nessus

Nessus is a cloud-based security and security testing tool that aids businesses in finding gaps in their security systems. This vulnerability assessment tool provides point-in-time analysis, simplifying and expediting detection and treatment.
Pros
- Notifies users in real-time when a new vulnerability is discovered
- A vulnerability scan’s configuration can be greatly altered to meet the demands of the target.
- Aids in maintaining PCI compliance.
Cons
- Several customization options with very minute differences make it difficult to choose based on needs.
- Time-consuming scans.
- It’s expensive when compared to other options.
Why did we choose Nessus?
Nessus is a vulnerability assessment tool that extends its capabilities to the cloud. We included it as it provides point-in-time analysis and has customizable scanning options. While its customization can be complex and scans can be time-consuming, Nessus’s real-time notifications and PCI compliance support are valuable assets.
4. Scout Suite

This open-source multi cloud penetration testing tool can conduct security tests on cloud platforms. Scout Suite looks for configuration data and provides an overview of the attack surface and cloud-specific vulnerabilities.
This data can be perused for manual inspection to develop detailed remediation plans.
Pros
- Provides free trials.
- Easy-to-use interface.
- Provides a free version with good features for cloud penetration testing.
Cons
- The paid version has more specifications.
- Services can be a bit slow.
Why did we choose Scout Suite?
Scout Suite’s open-source nature and multi-cloud support make it a good option for organizations exploring cloud security testing. Its ability to identify configuration data and provide an overview of the attack surface is helpful for manual inspection and remediation planning. The free version offers a good starting point for cloud penetration testing.
5. Pacu

Pacu is an open-source cloud testing platform available for free on GitHub. It automates vulnerability detection in the AWS cloud platform. This framework allows penetration testers to find and target configuration flaws in an AWS environment, such as privilege escalation.
Pros
- Capable of detecting AWS vulnerabilities
- It helps in quick scanning of the AWS cloud environment for user permissions.
Cons
- Does not offer as many features as its commercial counterparts.
Why did we choose Pacu?
Pacu is a specialized open-source tool focused on AWS cloud penetration testing. Its ability to automate vulnerability detection and target configuration flaws, such as privilege escalation, makes it a valuable asset for security professionals working within the AWS ecosystem.
6. Nmap

Nmap is an open-source vulnerability scanner and one of the most popular ethical cloud hacking tools that helps with cloud network discovery, management, and monitoring. It is designed to scan large cloud networks but works fine against singlet networks.
Pros
- Shows open ports, running serves, and other critical facets of a network
- Freely available.
- Usable for large and small networks alike
Cons
- The user interface can be improved.
- It might show different results each time.
Why did we choose Nmap?
Nmap’s inclusion is based on its versatility as a network discovery and monitoring tool, extending its utility to cloud environments. Its ability to scan large networks, identify open ports and running services, and its open-source availability make it a valuable asset for cloud network analysis.
7. AWS Inspector

This automated vulnerability management service helps by continuously scanning the automatically detected AWS workloads for vulnerabilities and unintentional exposures.
After a few easy steps to enable its services, AWS Inspector can be used across all your AWS accounts.
Pros
- Discovers EC2 instances and images.
- Assess the plastic container registry for flaws and areas of exposure.
- Contextualized risk scores
Cons
- Does not provide a classification of individual findings.
- Billing can be a bit tricky.
Why did we choose AWS Inspector?
AWS Inspector is a natural choice for organizations heavily invested in the AWS ecosystem. Its automated vulnerability management service, continuous scanning of AWS workloads, and contextualized risk scores make it an essential tool for maintaining AWS cloud security.
8. CloudBrute

CloudBrute helps you find key elements like open buckets, apps, and data by performing brute-force attacks on cloud environments. It targets the company’s infrastructure and files, making black box cloud pentesting easier.
CloudBrute looks for vulnerabilities like incorrect file storage, outdated endpoints, and lack of proper concurrency.
Pros
- It works with multiple service providers like Amazon, Windows, and more.
- Brute force attack based on a pre-defined word list.
- Black-box cloud penetration tests were provided.
Cons
- It’s not as extensive as its commercial counterparts.
Why did we choose CloudBrute?
CloudBrute’s focus on brute-force attacks to uncover vulnerabilities like open buckets and outdated endpoints makes it a valuable tool for black-box cloud penetration testing. Its multi-cloud support is also a plus.
9. MicroBurst
This freely available tool kit, created by Karl Fosaaen, can be used to carry out cloud-based penetration tests for the Azure cloud platform. It aims to identify weak configuration audits and allows for post-exploitation steps like credential dumping.
Pros
- Open-source penetration testing tool.
- Offers Azure Services discovery and weak configuration auditing.
- Post-exploitation actions like credential dumping.
Cons
- Does not offer many features like commercial tools.
Why did we choose MicroBurst?
MicroBurst is a specialized open-source toolkit for Azure cloud penetration testing. Its ability to identify weak configurations and perform post-exploitation actions, such as credential dumping, makes it a valuable resource for Azure security assessments.
10. SkyArk
Available for Azure and AWS, this cloud infrastructure testing tool is useful for identifying additional attack surfaces and specializes in combating the risk of cloud shadow admins. It helps detect these shadow admins that could be present in any cloud environment and safeguards companies against them.
Pros
- Detects the presence of shadow cloud admins.
- Helps in assessing entities in AWS and Azure.
Cons
- Not available for the Google Cloud platform.
Why did we choose SkyArk?
SkyArk’s focus on detecting shadow cloud admins and identifying additional attack surfaces makes it a unique tool for cloud infrastructure testing in AWS and Azure. This specialized functionality addresses a critical security concern in cloud environments.
11. BurpSuite

BurpSuite is a constantly evolving vulnerability scanning tool that provides integrations for easy ticket generation. Now, it also provides scope for testing out cloud environments and testing for misconfigurations in S3 buckets.
Pros
- Provides advanced automated pentesting services.
- Provides step-by-step advice for every vulnerability found.
- Can crawl through complex targets with ease based on URLs and content.
Cons
- Advanced solutions are commercialized and can be expensive.
- Does not provide expert customer service and assistance.
Why did we choose Burp Suite?
Burp Suite’s inclusion is due to its evolving capabilities, extending to cloud environments, including S3 bucket testing. Its comprehensive web application testing features and cloud-specific functionalities make it a versatile tool for cloud security assessments.
12. Qualys

Qualys provides continuous monitoring and compliance solutions and manages vulnerabilities in web application firewalls, making it a top contender in the best cloud security remediation software.
Pros
- Well-designed and easy-to-navigate user interface.
- Constant updates ensure the current security measures for the cloud environment.
Cons
- Limited scheduling options.
- Scans do not apply to all applications.
Why did we choose Qualys?
Qualys is a strong contender for cloud security remediation and continuous monitoring. Its focus on vulnerability management across web application firewalls and its well-designed user interface makes it a good choice for organizations seeking comprehensive cloud security.
13. Sophos

Sophos Cloud was founded in 1985 and offers enterprise-level cloud security architectural solutions, such as native protection, security automation for DevOps, and round-the-clock threat detection.
Pros
- Available for GCP, AWS, and Azure.
- Helps with automating security by employing DAST, SAST, and SCA code analysis.
- Intuitive, user-friendly dashboard.
Cons
- It can be expensive.
- Difficult to set up.
- Customer support could be better.
Why did we choose Sophos?
Sophos Cloud offers enterprise-level cloud security solutions, including native protection, security automation for DevOps, and threat detection. Its support for major cloud providers and its integrated approach to security makes it a valuable option for organizations seeking comprehensive cloud protection.
14. Guidepoint Security
Guidepoint Security offers detailed cloud security assessments that assess security strategies, migration readiness, and cloud health checks to determine any issues. They provide AWS, Microsoft, Google, and Oracle cloud security services.
Pros
- Provides customized, innovative solutions.
- Examines cloud environment against standard frameworks.
Cons
- It can be more expensive compared to other options.
- Could have a better user interface.
Why did we choose Guidepoint Security?
Guidepoint Security provides detailed cloud security assessments, covering security strategies, migration readiness, and cloud health checks. Its customized solutions and framework-based approach make it a good choice for organizations seeking in-depth cloud security evaluations.
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Key Features of Robust Cloud Penetration Testing Tools
1. Zero False Positives
A zero false positive assurance with vulnerability detection refers to automated scans being vetted by security experts to ensure that the scanner isn’t flagging any vulnerabilities that either aren’t there or aren’t relevant to the company/industry. Every vulnerability found should be legitimate.
2. CI/CD Integrations
Ensure that the cloud penetration testing tools you have narrowed down can be integrated into your organization’s CI/CD pipeline with applications like Slack, Jira, GitHub, and GitLab. Such integration allows your organization to shift from a DevOps model to a DevSecOps model, thus giving more priority to security.
3. Comprehensive Vulnerability Scanner
A vulnerability scanner that detects business logic errors, conducts scans behind login pages, and features customizable reports should be chosen for high-quality pentesting. Such scanners should be capable of detecting all known vulnerabilities based on intel, CVEs, and vulnerabilities mentioned in other standards, such as OWASP, NIST, and SANS Top 25.
4. Compliance-Specific Scans
The cloud pentesting tool should also provide compliance-specific scans to help organizations that store their confidential data comply with various industry-specific regulatory standards for data protection like GDPR, SOC2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS.
5. Detailed Reports
A good cloud penetration testing tool generates a comprehensive report detailing the test scope, scanned assets, found vulnerabilities, and attack methods used with customizations, for example, high-level summaries for executives and in-depth technical details for security engineers.
As such. the post-audit report should prioritize vulnerabilities by risk or CVSS score and include clear remediation steps, enabling swift action.
6. Pentest Certificate
The pentesting company should provide a penetration testing certificate upon completing a penetration test and successfully remedying the flaws found. This can be double-checked by conducting a re-scan. Providing a publicly verifiable pentest certificate strengthen customer trust and boost sales acting as a hook for potential cloud customers.
7. Customer Support
A good penetration testing company provides 24/7 customer service through calls and emails to clear any queries arising during the penetration testing process. Knowledgeable experts should provide customer support to ensure a seamless query clearance.
Benefits of Cloud Penetration Testing
Organizations with sensitive data and apps in the cloud and cloud service providers might benefit from tools for cloud penetration testing. Cloud penetration testing supports the shared responsibility framework that most cloud providers impose between their clients and themselves by:
- Finding Vulnerabilities: Identifying vulnerabilities by carrying out cloud penetration tests ensures quick fixing. Comprehensive scanners can pick up even the most minute vulnerabilities, which is crucial as they help in the immediate remediation before hackers exploit them.
- Enhancing Security: Another benefit of cloud penetration testing is that it helps constantly update security measures. If any security gaps are found, it helps improve the existing security measures.
- Improving Reliability: Carrying out periodic cloud pentests increases the reliability and trustworthiness attributed to the cloud providers. This can bring in more clients owing to the security-conscious nature of the cloud provider while keeping the existing clients happy with the level of protection available for their data.
Final Thoughts
Cloud computing is taking over the business by storm due to its ease of use and storage. Therefore, it becomes the responsibility of users and providers to ensure that their customers’ data is always safe, as even the cloud is prone to getting hacked.
Choose the right cloud penetration testing tools based on their features, pros, and cons. Look for features like CI/CD integration, compliance-based testing, affordable pricing, customization, and pentesting company reliability.
Our top three picks to keep your cloud safe and sound include Astra Pentest, Intruder, and Nessus. Opt for the right tool to suit your needs!
FAQs
1. What are the top three cloud platforms?
The top 3 well-known and used cloud platforms are AWS by Amazon, Azure by Microsoft, and GCP by Google.
2. Top 3 cloud penetration testing methodologies?
The top 3 cloud penetration testing methodologies are:
1. Black box: In this pentesting methodology, the pentester is unaware of any target details and has to start to exploit from scratch—true hacker-style testing.
2. White box: In this type of pentesting, the testing knows all the relevant information about the exploitation. Also known as clear-box testing.
3. Gray Box: In this type of testing, details regarding the system are divulged partially.
3. What is AWS penetration testing?
This refers to exploiting the AWS platform service you use to find vulnerabilities within its security. AWS penetration testing is subject to its policies.
4. What is the Shared Responsibility Model?
The shared responsibility model splits cloud security between provider and customer. Each is liable for their part. Azure and AWS use this, with providers handling holistic security and customers responsible for their specific services. Responsibility increases from SaaS to PaaS to IaaS.