With 7.78M attacks in the first 6 months of 2024, generative AI-fuelled attacks and continuous threat exposure have made the threat landscape even more turbulent in the United Kingdom.
Moreover, even with Zero-Trust infrastructure, human error and zero days can expose your organization to an AI-powered hacker. This is where penetration testing steps in, but with 50+ penetration testing companies in UK or elsewhere, who can you trust?
As such, our security experts have curated a list of the top 10 providers, focusing on essential criteria such as qualified testers, robust management platforms, login bypass capabilities, insightful reports, compliance expertise, clear timelines, and competitive pricing.
List of Top 10 Penetration Testing Companies UK
- Astra Pentest
- Invicti
- SecurityHQ
- ThreatSpike Red
- Sencode
- Redscan
- Aardwold Security
- Dhound
- CyberQ Group
- Acunetix
What is Penetration Testing?
Penetration testing is a proactive security measure that combines automation, AI, and human expertise to pinpoint, analyze, and prioritize vulnerabilities and zero days in your digital infrastructure.
Moreover, the ideal pentester equips a detailed report with exhaustive analysis, compliance alerts, recreation steps, and remediation guidance for each vulnerability. In addition to the general GDPR, HIPAA, PCI, and UK GDPR, there are a few other compliance and regulatory standards that govern cybersecurity explained later in this article in detail.
Why Astra is the best in pentesting?
- We’re the only company that combines automated & manual pentest to create a one-of-a-kind pentest platform.
- Vetted scans ensure zero false positives.
- Our intelligent vulnerability scanner emulates hacker behavior & evolves with every pentest.
- Astra’s scanner helps you shift left by integrating with your CI/CD.
- Our platform helps you uncover, manage & fix vulnerabilities in one place.
- Trusted by the brands you trust like Agora, Spicejet, Muthoot, Dream11, etc.
How Much Does a Pentest Cost in the UK?
The cost of a pen test in the UK can vary depending on the complexity of your needs but typically ranges from £500 to £3,000 per day for third-party penetration testing platforms and experts.
Some factors that may affect the final cost include the size and complexity of your organization, the scope of the testing, the methodology to be used, and the level of expertise required.
Top Penetration Testing Companies UK Compared
| Features | Astra Pentest | Invicti | SecurityHQ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pentest Capabilities | Web and Mobile Applications, Cloud Infrastructure, API, and Networks | Web applications and APIs | Applications, network, API, and cloud |
| Accuracy | Zero false positives (Assured with Vetted Scans) | False positives possible | False positives possible |
| Scan Behind Logins | Yes | No | No |
| Compliance scans | GDPR, PCI-DSS, HIPAA, SOC2, and ISO 27001 | PCI-DSS, HIPAA, OWASP, ISO 27001 | CREST and ISO 27001 |
| Expert Remediation | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Publicly Verifiable Certification | Yes | No | No |
| Workflow Integrations | JIRA, GitHub, GitLab, Slack, CI Circle, and Jenkins | JIRA, GitHub, GitLab, Kenna, and Bitbucket | Cloudflare, Microsoft Sentinel, IBM QRadar and more |
| Cost | Starting at $1999 per year | Available on quote | Available on quote |
Top 10 Penetration Testing Companies in the UK
1. Astra Pentest
Key Features:
- Pentest Capabilities: Web and Mobile Applications, Cloud Infrastructure, API, and Networks
- Accuracy: Zero false positives (Assured with Vetted Scans)
- Scan Behind Logins: Yes
- Compliance Scans: GDPR, PCI-DSS, HIPAA, SOC2, and ISO 27001
- Expert Remediation: Yes
- Publically Verifiable Certification: Yes
- Workflow Integrations: JIRA, GitHub, GitLab, Slack, CI Circle, and Jenkins
- Cost: Starting at $1999 per year
Astra Pentest stands out as one of the leading penetration testing companies UK. We combine the efficiency of automation with the in-depth analysis of manual testing, run 9,300+ tests and compliance checks by security veterans with over 50 years of combined experience, and ensure a comprehensive security assessment.
Going beyond just numbers, our expert-vetted scans eliminate false positives, saving you valuable time and resources. Our in-depth manual testing, conducted with a hacker’s mindset, uncovers critical vulnerabilities like payment gateway hacks and business logic errors.
Catering to a diverse customer base across industries and borders, we leverage industry-specific AI test cases, a world-class GPT-powered chatbot for streamlined communication, and customizable reports to ensure a smooth experience and save your organization millions of dollars in potential security breaches.
Pros:
- Pentest by security experts with OSCP, CEH & CVEs under their name
- Continuous proactive pen testing available via vulnerability scanner
- Customized executive and engineer-friendly reporting
- Scan behind logged-in pages
Limitations:
- 1-week trial available at $7
Lock down your security with our 9300+ AI-powered test cases.
Discuss your security needs
& get started today!
2. Invicti
Key Features:
- Pentest Capabilities: Web applications and APIs
- Accuracy: False positives possible
- Scan Behind Logins: No
- Compliance Scans: PCI-DSS, HIPAA, OWASP, ISO 27001
- Expert Remediation: Yes
- Publically Verifiable Certification: No
- Workflow Integrations: JIRA, GitHub, GitLab, Kenna, and Bitbucket
- Cost: Available on quote
With its headquarters in London, Invicti has earned a reputation as one of the leading automated application and API penetration testing solutions for enterprises in the UK. Its scalable, multi-user platform with holistic integration is designed to facilitate DevSecOps.
With comprehensive customization toggles, proof-based scanning helps reduce false positives, while graphical representations of vulnerability analyses improve data presentation. , compliance assistance, and a very transparent way of presenting data
Pros:
- Can assist with several compliances.
- Quick and easy installation.
Limitations:
- API endpoint scanning can be improved.
- Slows down while scanning large applications.
3. SecurityHQ
Key Features:
- Pentest Capabilities: Applications, network, API, and cloud
- Accuracy: False positives possible
- Scan Behind Logins: No
- Compliance Scans: CREST and ISO 27001
- Expert Remediation: Yes
- Publically Verifiable Certification: No
- Workflow Integrations: Cloudflare, Microsoft Sentinel, IBM QRadar and more
- Cost: Available on quote
Based in London, as one of the penetration testing companies in the UK, SecurityHQ offers an end-to-end vulnerability scanner and manager. Its intelligence analytics and action-first reports provide clear remediation steps to foster a proactive security culture.
Designed to support scaling organizations, it is an excellent fit with OSCP, GPEN, GWAPT, CEH qualified security experts to ensure comprehensive testing.
Pros:
- User-friendly and easy to set up.
- Offers multiple deployment option on Windows, Linux, and SaaS.
Limitations:
- Can be a little expensive
4. ThreatSpike Red
Key Features:
- Pentest Capabilities: Web app and network
- Accuracy: False positives possible
- Scan Behind Logins: No
- Compliance Scans: OWASP, ISO 27001, SOC 2. and PCI-DSS
- Expert Remediation: Yes
- Publically Verifiable Certification: No
- Workflow Integrations: None
- Cost: Starting from $7,000 per year
Adding to the list, ThreatSpike Red is another London-based UK penetration testing company well known for its unlimited offensive security testing packages. Using a blend of automation and manual testing, it offers detailed reports.
Starting with vulnerability scans, they go beyond traditional pentest to conduct red team exercises, segment analysis, and threat simulations to ensure holistic security.
Pros:
- Quick turnaround by the customer support team.
- Offers additional functionality outside of pure EDR.
Limitations:
- Need a web interface to display reports and findings.
5. Sencode
Key Features:
- Pentest Capabilities: Web application, network, mobile app, and API
- Accuracy: False positives possible
- Scan Behind Logins: No
- Compliance Scans: CREST and GDPR
- Expert Remediation: Yes
- Publically Verifiable Certification: Yes
- Workflow Integrations: None
- Cost: Available on quote
Located in Durham, Sencode conducts exhaustive penetration tests for various assets ranging from applications to networks. Conducted by OSCP and CREST qualified personnel, it offers free retesting with every pentest they conduct.
Most importantly, they offer a testing certificate to help you demonstrate your commitment to security.
Pros:
- Provides detailed reports with executive and business risk summaries.
- Designed as per OWASP guidelines.
Limitations:
- Needs more transparency in pricing plans.
6. RedScan
Key Features:
- Pentest Capabilities: Applications, Cloud, and Network
- Accuracy: False positives possible
- Scan Behind Logins: Yes
- Compliance Scans: CREST, OWASP, PCI-DSS, ISO,
- Expert Remediation: Yes
- Publically Verifiable Certification: No
- Workflow Integrations: JIRA, ZenDesk, ServiceNow and more
- Cost: Available on quote
Based out of the capital, RedScan offers extensive cybersecurity services under the KROLL umbrella. In addition to the traditional assets, it helps manage human risk with social engineering penetration testing services.
Redscan’s CEH, CREST, CISA, and CISM-qualified security experts conduct annual and continuous pentests with minimal business operation disruption.
Pros:
- Ease of deployment and enrollment.
- Conducted by CREST-certified experts.
Limitations:
- Customer support turnaround can be slow at times.
7. Aardwolf Security
Key Features:
- Pentest Capabilities: Applications, Cloud Infrastructure, API, and Networks
- Accuracy: False positives possible
- Scan Behind Logins: No
- Compliance Scans: GDPR & OWASP
- Expert Remediation: No
- Publically Verifiable Certification: No
- Workflow Integrations: None
- Cost: Available on quote
As a company in Buckinghamshire, Aardwolf Security offers various cyber essential and penetration testing services in UK. Designed primarily to target the OWASP Top 10, it covers a variety of approaches and targets.
Furthermore, Aardwolf offers database reviews, social engineering, and actionable reports that help ease remediation.
Pros:
- Quick and detailed communication for transparency.
- Offers GDPR compliance.
Limitations:
- Do not offer transparency in pricing packages.
- All compliances are not covered.
8. Dhound
Key Features:
- Pentest Capabilities: Web and mobile applications
- Accuracy: False positives possible
- Scan Behind Logins: No
- Compliance Scans: GDPR, SOC2, HIPAA, PCI DSS
- Expert Remediation: No
- Publically Verifiable Certification: No
- Workflow Integrations: WordPress
- Cost: Available on quote
Established in Leeds, Dhound specializes in UK web and mobile application penetration testing services. Equipped with CEH, CISSP, OSWE, and other certifications, their security experts conduct hacker-like pentests.
Known for its simple yet effective reports, Dhound provides complimentary retesting of vulnerabilities and patches rolled out.
Pros:
- Supports compliance-based penetration testing.
- Offers a smart alerting system.
Limitations:
- The speed of the software can be improved.
9. CyberQ Group
Key Features:
- Pentest Capabilities: Applications, cloud, and data structure (internal and external)
- Accuracy: False positives possible
- Scan Behind Logins: Yes
- Compliance Scans: CREST & ISO27001
- Expert Remediation: Yes
- Publically Verifiable Certification: No
- Workflow Integrations: None
- Cost: Available on quote
Established in Birmingham, CyberQ Security offers a variety of services, from Cyber Due Diligence and Managed SOC to Penetration Testing and 365 Audits on demand. They cover internal and external infrastructure, as well as web apps, and help pinpoint potential CVEs.
Moreover, CyberQ offers fixed pricing plans with easy scaling, CREST certification, and compliance support. However, they are only available on a quote, depending on your individual needs.
Pros:
- Ensures thorough penetration testing of your digital infrastructure
Limitations:
- Pricing can be more transparent.
10. Acunetix
Key Features:
- Pentest Capabilities: Web applications
- Accuracy: False positives possible
- Scan Behind Logins: Yes
- Compliance Scans: OWASP, ISO 27001, PCI-DSS, NIST
- Expert Remediation: Yes
- Publically Verifiable Certification: No
- Workflow Integrations: ira, GitHub, GitLab, DevOps, and Mantis
- Cost: Available on quote
Acunetix, a product under the Invicti umbrella, is also based in London. The automated penetration testing tool seamlessly integrates with your firm’s CI/CD pipeline and GRC platforms to streamline workflow.
It tests for 4500+ vulnerabilities and offers detailed reports to empower your developers with steps for re-creation and clear remediation guidance.
Pros:
- Easy to schedule scans.
- Quality user interface of web app and reports.
Limitations:
- LFI and reconnaissance may require more inceptions.
- Login sequencing can generate errors.
Astra Pentest is built by the team of experts that helped secure Microsoft, Adobe, Facebook, and Buffer
Factors to Consider While Choosing a Penetration Testing Company UK
1. Expertise and qualifications:
Look for a penetration testing service with a team with industry-recognized certifications like CREST or OSCP to demonstrate its expertise in testing methodologies and ethical hacking techniques.
Pro Tip: Choose a team with sector-specific knowledge so testers can laser-focus and identify vulnerabilities relevant to your threatscape.
2. Methodology:
Understand the various testing methodologies available in the market, such as black-box, white-box, and grey-box, and which is the ideal choice for you. Employ a UK penetration testing company that specializes in the above.
Pro Tip: To minimize damage and inconvenience, get a list of the tools and techniques being used and any possible impact they may have on business operations.
3. Communication and Reporting:
Ensure that the pentest company of your choice provides clear and concise communication throughout the engagement, with regular updates on the testing progress. Evaluate the reporting format to ensure it meets the needs of all the stakeholders involved.
Pro Tip: Look for detailed, technical, yet easy-to-understand reports that clearly outline vulnerabilities and exploit details and provide actionable remediation steps.
4. Compliance:
Ensure the company has experience performing tests aligned with your industry’s compliance needs (e.g., SOX, ISO, PCI DSS, HIPAA, and more). A CREST/ CHECK accreditation also ensures an ethical yet thorough assessment.
Pro Tip: Look for companies and teams with previous experience, especially in your industry, in addition to accreditation, to leverage their experience and mitigate potential roadblocks.
5. Cost & Timelines:
Penetration testing costs vary based on engagement scope, testing methodology, and team size. Obtain quotes from various agencies, but remember to consider value over just price—the most expensive/affordable option isn’t always the best fit.
Pro Tip: Discuss project timelines and turnaround time in the quotation process. Understand the estimated assessment time, including reporting and post-test communication.
Still not sure? Check out what WireMock CTO Tom Akehurst has to say!
Compliance & Regulations for Pentesting UK
Data Protection Act, 2018
Designed to complement the UK GDPR, while not directly a cybersecurity regulation, DPA 2018 focuses on how organizations handle personal data. It requires organizations to implement appropriate measures to secure personal data, including practices that mitigate cyber risks like unauthorized access or data breaches.
Network and Information Systems (NIS) Regulations
UK’s NIS Directive, scheduled to be replaced by NIS 2 in October’24, mandates energy, transport, and healthcare companies to improve cybersecurity by reporting attacks, managing risk, and developing backup plans in case of attacks.
Telecommunications (Security) Act 2021
The given act strengthens UK’s telecommunications infrastructure by empowering authorities to tackle threats, manage vulnerabilities, and impose sanctions on operators that fail to comply with cybersecurity requirements.
PECR (Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations)
PECR safeguards user privacy in electronic communications (emails, marketing messages) and combats spam. Though not purely cybersecurity, it helps prevent malicious actors from misusing these channels with non-compliance, incurring fines going up to £500,000.
UK eIDAS (Electronic Identification and Trust Services for Electronic Transactions Regulations 2016)
An extension of the EU’s eIDAS framework, it establishes standards for electronic identification (eID) and trust services like digital signatures to ensure the security and reliability of electronic transactions, making them less susceptible to cyber fraud.
Digital Technology Assessment Criteria
The DTAC framework is used within the National Health Service (NHS) to assess the cybersecurity of digital health technologies using vulnerability management and secure development practices to ensure the safety of data in the healthcare sector.
Final Thoughts
Cybersecurity threats are relentless, and the burden often falls disproportionately on CISOs. However, choosing the right penetration testing company in the UK can be daunting.
Focus on the key criteria: expertise, methodology, communication, compliance, cost, and timelines. Look for qualified testers, a clear testing approach, and detailed reports with actionable recommendations.
Most importantly, the most expensive or affordable option is not always the most effective fit for your needs.
FAQs
Does the UK have cyber security?
Yes, the UK has a national cyber security strategy led by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). The NCSC works to protect critical services, manage cyber incidents, and offer advice to businesses and citizens.
Which cyber security certification is best in the UK?
Depending on your need on their needs, for a baseline defense against common threats, you can consider Cyber Essentials. For a broader information security framework, ISO 27001 is a strong choice. For senior leadership, certifications like CISSP or CISM can demonstrate expertise in managing an enterprise security program.
