A testing methodology or framework is a structured set of guidelines that outlines the processes, techniques, and tools used to conduct a penetration test. This guides the tester through a series of steps designed to simulate real-world cyberattacks, identify vulnerabilities, and assess the security posture of a system, network, or application.
Methodologies and frameworks tend to be used interchangeably. This could confuse the reader. Therefore, we make a clear distinction in this report, as defined below.
A methodology is more process-oriented, but it’s not limited to governance. It’s a systematic approach to accomplishing a task or solving a problem. Methodologies provide guidelines, principles, and practices for how to approach work. They often include defined phases, activities, and deliverables.
While frameworks can be technical, they’re not exclusively so. A framework is a supporting structure or a basic system that can be built upon or customized. It provides a foundation or skeleton for developing something more complex. Frameworks can be conceptual or practical, including both ideas and tools.
| Property | Methodology | Framework |
| Purpose | guide “what and how” to do something | provide a structure for “what” to build upon |
| Scope | typically broader, covering entire processes | may focus on specific technical aspects or components |
| Application | applied to processes and workflows | applied to, and structure technical aspects |
| Flexibility | tend to be more prescriptive | often more flexible and customizable |