GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN)
GIAC
The GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN) certification validates a practitioner's ability to properly conduct a penetration test using best-practice techniques and methodologies. GPEN certification holders have the knowledge and skills to conduct exploits, engage in detailed environmental reconnaissance, and utilize a process-oriented approach to penetration testing projects.
Format
Hybrid
Skills developed through this program
- Use advanced methods to attack password hashes and authenticate
- Obtain and attack password hashes and other password representations
- Understand Azure applications and the attacks against them including federated and single sign-on environments and Azure AD authentication protocols
- Understand Entra ID implementation fundamentals, common Entra ID attacks, and Azure authentication techniques
- Understand the design, application, and use of Command and Control (C2) and common C2 frameworks
- Understand common Windows privilege escalation attacks and Kerberos attack techniques used to consolidate and persist administrative access to Active Directory
Occupations this program prepares you for
Credentials this program stacks toward
No pathways.
Detailed information about this program
Areas Covered - Comprehensive Pen Test Planning, Scoping, and Reconnaissance - In-Depth Scanning and Exploitation, Post-Exploitation, and Pivoting - In-Depth Password Attacks and Azure Overview, Integration, and Attacks Who is GPEN for? - Security personnel responsible for assessing network and systems - Penetration testers - Ethical hackers - Red Team members - Blue Team members - Defenders, auditors, and forensic specialists who want to better understand offensive tactics GPEN with CyberLive GIAC knows that cyber security professionals need: - Discipline-specific certifications - Practical testing that validates their knowledge and hands-on skills In response to this industry-wide need, GIAC developed CyberLive - hands-on, real-world practical testing. CyberLive testing creates a lab environment where cyber practitioners prove their knowledge, understanding, and skill using: - Actual programs - Actual code - Virtual machines Candidates are asked practical questions that require performance of real-world-like tasks that mimic specialized job roles. Exam Format 1 proctored exam 82 questions 3 hours Minimum passing score of 73% Note: GIAC reserves the right to change the specifications for each certification without notice. Based on a scientific passing point study, the passing point for the GPEN exam has been determined to be 73% for all candidates receiving access to their certification attempts on or after July 12th, 2025. To verify the format and passing point of your specific certification attempt, read the Certification Information found in your account at https://exams.giac.org/pages/attempts. Delivery NOTE: All GIAC Certification exams are web-based and required to be proctored. There are two proctoring options: remote proctoring through ProctorU, and onsite proctoring through PearsonVUE. Click here for more information. GIAC certification attempts will be activated in your GIAC account after your application has been approved and according to the terms of your purchase. Details on delivery will be provided along with your registration confirmation upon payment. You will receive an email notification when your certification attempt has been activated in your account. You will have 120 days from the date of activation to complete your certification attempt.
What you need to earn this credential
No requirements listed.
Eligible funding programs
No funding information available.
Scholarships
No scholarships listed.