A Statement of Work (SOW) template for penetration testing helps organizations define the scope, methodology, and deliverables for security assessment projects.
Using standardized templates reduces planning time, ensures consistency, and helps maintain compliance with security standards.
This guide outlines key components and practical templates for creating effective penetration testing SOWs.
Essential SOW Components
- Project Overview
- Scope Definition
- Testing Methodology
- Timeline & Milestones
- Deliverables
- Technical Requirements
- Legal Considerations
Project Overview Section Template
Project Name: [Name] Client: [Organization Name] Start Date: [Date] Duration: [Timeframe] Testing Type: [Black Box/White Box/Gray Box]
Scope Definition Elements
- IP ranges and domains to be tested
- Applications and services in scope
- Testing environment details
- Excluded systems or networks
- Testing hours and restrictions
Testing Methodology Section
List specific testing frameworks (OWASP, PTES, NIST) that will guide the assessment.
- Reconnaissance phase details
- Vulnerability scanning approach
- Manual testing procedures
- Exploitation methods
- Post-exploitation activities
Timeline & Deliverables Structure
| Phase | Duration | Deliverable |
|---|---|---|
| Planning | 1-2 days | Kick-off document |
| Testing | 5-10 days | Status reports |
| Reporting | 3-5 days | Final report |
Legal & Compliance Requirements
- Non-disclosure agreements
- Testing authorization forms
- Insurance requirements
- Incident reporting procedures
- Data handling protocols
Communication Protocol Template
Primary Contact: [Name, Role] Emergency Contact: [Name, Phone] Escalation Path: [Details] Progress Updates: [Frequency]
Reporting Requirements
- Executive summary
- Technical findings
- Risk ratings
- Remediation recommendations
- Supporting evidence
- Raw scan data
Next Steps for Implementation
Download our sample SOW template to start customizing for your penetration testing project.
Contact [email protected] for template assistance or customization needs.
Remember to review and update your SOW template annually to align with evolving security standards and testing methodologies.
Quality Assurance Measures
- Peer review requirements
- Testing validation procedures
- Documentation standards
- Client approval checkpoints
- Performance metrics
Risk Management Guidelines
Define specific procedures for handling critical findings and potential system disruptions during testing.
- Critical vulnerability discovery protocol
- System disruption mitigation steps
- Real-time reporting thresholds
- Recovery procedures
- Incident response coordination
Resource Requirements
| Resource Type | Description | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|
| Technical Staff | Senior penetration testers | Testing firm |
| Tools | Testing software and hardware | Testing firm |
| Access | Credentials and permissions | Client |
Success Criteria Definition
- Coverage metrics
- Finding severity thresholds
- Report quality standards
- Client satisfaction measures
- Compliance validation points
Building Your Secure Testing Foundation
A well-structured SOW serves as the foundation for successful penetration testing engagements. Regular updates and customizations ensure its continued effectiveness in meeting evolving security challenges.
- Review templates quarterly
- Incorporate industry feedback
- Update methodology references
- Maintain compliance alignment
- Document lessons learned
FAQs
- What essential components should a penetration testing Statement of Work (SOW) include?
A penetration testing SOW must include scope definition, testing methodology, timeline, deliverables, pricing structure, legal considerations, confidentiality agreements, and remediation guidelines. - How should the scope be defined in a penetration testing SOW?
The scope should specify target IP ranges, domains, applications, number of systems, testing boundaries, excluded systems, and whether social engineering is included. - What testing methodologies should be specified in the SOW?
The SOW should outline whether black box, grey box, or white box testing will be used, along with specific frameworks like OWASP, PTES, or NIST guidelines being followed. - What liability and insurance requirements should be included in the SOW?
The SOW must specify professional liability insurance coverage, limitation of liability clauses, indemnification terms, and incident response procedures in case of unintended system impacts. - How should the reporting requirements be structured in a penetration testing SOW?
Reporting requirements should include executive summary, technical findings, risk ratings, remediation recommendations, raw scan data, and timeline for delivering draft and final reports. - What confidentiality and data handling provisions are necessary in the SOW?
The SOW must include NDA terms, data handling procedures, requirements for secure storage of test results, and protocols for disposing of sensitive information after project completion. - How should testing windows and scheduling be addressed in the SOW?
The SOW should specify testing hours, blackout periods, notification requirements, emergency contact procedures, and coordination protocols with IT teams. - What credentials and clearance requirements should be included in the SOW?
The SOW must outline required certifications (CEH, OSCP, etc.), background check requirements, and any specific clearance levels needed for the testing team. - What should be included regarding post-testing support and retesting?
The SOW should specify the duration of post-testing support, number of included retests, timeline for verification testing, and additional costs for out-of-scope retesting. - How should rules of engagement be documented in the SOW?
Rules of engagement should detail allowed testing techniques, prohibited actions, escalation procedures, and communication protocols during testing.
