Primary definition
A test methodology in which assessors, typically working under specific constraints, attempt to circumvent or defeat the security features of an information system. Source: NIST SP 800-53 Rev 4
Also known aspen testing · pentest · ethical hacking · security testing · red teaming · vulnerability assessment
9 sources cited2 related termsReviewed Aug 9, 2026
— Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015View source
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CNSSGC
A test methodology in which assessors, typically working under specific constraints, attempt to circumvent or defeat the security features of an information system. Source: NIST SP 800-53 Rev 4
Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015 · 2024
Cite this term
Permanent URL · stable across revisions
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Penetration Testing. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 20, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/penetration-testing
Sources
9 cited · last checked Aug 9, 2026
01
Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015
Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015
High consensus
02
The State and Local Election Cybersecurity Playbook
The State and Local Election Cybersecurity Playbook
Multi-source
03
Electronic Voting Glossary
Electronic Voting Glossary
Multi-source
04
March 2020 CSC Report
March 2020 CSC Report
Multi-source
05
EAC Glossary of Terms
EAC Glossary of Terms
Multi-source
06
EAC Information Technology Terminology
EAC Information Technology Terminology
Multi-source
07
NICCS Glossary
NICCS Glossary
Multi-source
08
NIST Election Glossary
NIST Election Glossary
Multi-source
09
The Cyber Glossary
The Cyber Glossary
Multi-source
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