In cybersecurity, understanding your weaknesses before attackers do is crucial. Organizations rely on various tools to assess and strengthen their defenses, but with so many options available, choosing the right approach can be overwhelming. Two popular testing methods are Automated Penetration Testing and Breach & Attack Simulation (BAS). While they are often seen as alternatives, the truth is they serve different purposes and, when used together, create a far stronger security posture.
At first glance, both approaches aim to test an organization’s defenses, but they do so in fundamentally different ways. Automated penetration testing focuses on finding and exploiting vulnerabilities in systems, much like a real attacker would. It helps uncover weaknesses that could be used to gain unauthorized access or disrupt operations. Breach & Attack Simulation (BAS), on the other hand, takes a broader perspective—it continuously tests an organization’s ability to detect, respond to, and prevent attacks across the entire security infrastructure.
Finding the Gaps vs. Validating the Defense
Imagine penetration testing as a skilled thief trying to break into your house. It will look for weak locks, open windows, or hidden flaws in the security system - so called vulnerabilities. If it finds a way in, it proves that a vulnerability exists—but it doesn’t necessarily tell you whether your alarm system would detect the break-in or how your security team would respond.
BAS, in contrast, doesn’t just try to break in—it simulates a variety of attacks in a controlled manner to test whether your alarm rings, whether security cameras record the event, and whether the police arrive in time. It provides ongoing, repeatable insights into whether your security measures are actually working as intended.
From One-Time Tests to Continuous Validation
Automated penetration tests are typically performed on a scheduled basis—weekly, monthly, or quarterly—depending on an organization’s risk appetite. While they provide valuable insights at a specific point in time, they do not account for how security controls perform against evolving threats on a daily basis.
BAS, however, is designed for continuous execution in a safe and controlled simulation environment . By running attack scenarios regularly, it ensures that security improvements are tested, regressions are detected, and real-world attack techniques are proactively addressed—all without disrupting business operations.
Final Thoughts
Automated penetration testing and BAS serve different but complementary purposes. If the goal is to find and exploit specific vulnerabilities, penetration testing is an essential tool. However, for continuous validation of security controls and a holistic view of security posture, BAS is the better choice.
For a truly resilient cybersecurity strategy, combining both methodologies ensures a proactive and robust defense.
Download Nemesis' technical comparison between Automated Penetration Testing and Breach and Attack Simulation below.
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