Penetration testing is a simulated cyber attack on a computer system, network, or web application to identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious actors. This process involves ethical hackers, known as penetration testers, who use various tools and techniques to assess the security of the target. The goal is to uncover weaknesses before they can be exploited by real attackers. After conducting the tests, penetration testers provide a detailed report outlining the vulnerabilities found, the methods used to exploit them, and recommendations for improving security. This proactive approach helps organizations strengthen their defenses and protect sensitive data from potential breaches.