2026 Comparison
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Data last verified: January 2026

Security Audit vs Penetration Test: What's the Difference?

Audits assess policies and compliance. Pentests actively test technical controls.

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Pricing verified Q1 202645+ vendor interviews127+ data sourcesUpdated monthly

Side-by-Side Comparison

FactorSecurity AuditPenetration Test
FocusPolicies, processes, complianceTechnical vulnerabilities
ApproachDocumentation review, interviewsActive exploitation
OutputCompliance gaps, recommendationsExploited vulnerabilities
FrameworksSOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAAOWASP, PTES, OSSTMM
DeliverableAudit reportTechnical findings report

Our Verdict

Both serve different purposes. Audits for compliance, pentests for technical validation.

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Research Methodology

Pricing data compiled from 127+ vendor quotes, 45+ customer interviews, and public RFP responses. Reviewed by security industry experts with 20+ years combined experience.

Last verified: January 2026 • Next update: April 2026

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