NIST SP 800-115: A Technical Guide to Security Testing and Assessment

 NIST SP 800-115

NIST SP 800-115, titled "Technical Guide to Information Security Testing and Assessment", is a foundational document published by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). It provides a structured yet flexible framework for conducting technical security assessments, including penetration testing, vulnerability scanning, and security reviews.

Purpose of NIST SP 800-115

The guide helps organizations:

• Plan and execute security testing and assessments
• Analyze findings
• Develop mitigation strategies. It is not a comprehensive testing program but rather a framework of best practices for conducting technical security evaluations.

Core Components of the Framework

NIST SP 800-115 outlines a four-phase process for penetration testing and security assessments:

1. Planning Phase

• Define scope and objectives
• Establish rules of engagement
• Address legal and ethical considerations
• Finalize documentation and consent

2. Discovery Phase

• Information Gathering: Collect data on systems, IPs, ports, and services
• Vulnerability Analysis: Compare findings against known vulnerabilities (e.g., NVD)

3. Attack Phase

• Gaining Access: Exploit vulnerabilities to access systems
• Privilege Escalation: Attempt to gain deeper control
• Data Compromise: Explore what sensitive data can be accessed
• Persistence Simulation: Leave behind artifacts to demonstrate impact

4. Reporting Phase

• Summarize findings
• Provide actionable recommendations
• Prioritize remediation efforts

Techniques Covered

The guide includes a wide range of testing techniques:

• Documentation Review
• Log Analysis
• System Configuration Review
• Network Sniffing
• File Integrity Checking
• Password Cracking
• Social Engineering
• Wireless Scanning
• Vulnerability Validation

Benefits of Using NIST SP 800-115

• Ensures consistency and quality in security assessments
• Helps meet compliance and audit requirements
• Provides a common language for security professionals
• Supports risk-based decision-making