The cost of penetration testing in Pakistan varies from PKR 100,000 to PKR 8,100,000, depending on the scope, type, and depth of assessment provided by IdealSolutions, a trusted cybersecurity leader since 2016.
Evaluate Overall Penetration Testing Cost Based on Multiple Factors
| Service Type | Business Type | Scope & Complexity | Duration | Pricing Model | Estimated Cost (PKR) | Testing Coverage | Deliverables | IdealSolutions Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Web Application Penetration Testing | Small to Mid Business | Static / CMS Website | 5–7 Days | Fixed Price | 100,000 – 300,000 | OWASP Top 10, Manual & Automated Scans | Detailed Report + Fix Suggestions | Best for small websites and startups securing first-time deployments. |
| Web Application Penetration Testing | Enterprise / E-commerce | Dynamic / Payment Integrated | 10–15 Days | Project Based | 300,000 – 500,000 | Advanced Vulnerability Simulation + Business Logic Flaws | Comprehensive Attack Surface & Remediation Plan | Recommended for high-traffic and payment systems requiring deep analysis. |
| Mobile Application Penetration Testing | Startup / SME | Single Platform (Android or iOS) | 5–7 Days | Fixed Price | 100,000 – 250,000 | API, Storage, and Communication Testing | Findings Report with CVSS Ratings | Ideal for apps before Play Store or App Store launch. |
| Mobile Application Penetration Testing | Enterprise | Multi-Platform / Backend Integration | 10–20 Days | Time-Based | 300,000 – 500,000 | Server-side, Authentication, and Encryption Audits | Technical Report + Exploitation Proof | Essential for businesses handling financial or user data. |
| Cloud Penetration Testing | Corporate / SaaS Provider | AWS, Azure, Google Cloud | 10–15 Days | Project Based | 250,000 – 400,000 | Identity Misconfigurations, Access Control, Policy Testing | Cloud Risk Summary & Compliance Report | Recommended for organizations using multi-cloud infrastructures. |
| Network Penetration Testing | Enterprise / Government | External + Internal Networks | 7–12 Days | Project Based | 200,000 – 600,000 | Firewall, Router, and Endpoint Security Tests | Risk Matrix & Mitigation Roadmap | Ideal for IT-heavy environments and secured infrastructure mapping. |
| API / SaaS Penetration Testing | Enterprise / FinTech / SaaS | Multiple APIs & Endpoints | 15–25 Days | Project Based | 1,350,000 – 8,100,000 | Authentication, Authorization, and Rate-Limit Tests | Attack Surface Report + Exploit Demonstration | Best for platforms with sensitive transaction or user data. |
| Source Code Review | Software Development Firms | Custom Web / Mobile Applications | 7–15 Days | Per LOC (Lines of Code) | From 150,000 Upwards | Static & Dynamic Code Analysis | Line-by-Line Vulnerability Review | Ideal for development teams ensuring secure deployment pipelines. |
| Vulnerability Assessment | All Business Sizes | Comprehensive System Scan | 3–5 Days | Subscription / One-time | 75,000 – 200,000 | Surface Level and Configuration Weakness Detection | Executive Summary + Quick Fix Guide | Best suited for regular maintenance and quick compliance checks. |
| Red Team Penetration Testing | Enterprise / Government | Full-Scope Offensive Simulation | 15–30 Days | Project Based | 500,000 – 2,000,000 | Social Engineering + Network Breach Testing | Comprehensive Breach Simulation Report | Essential for large organizations testing real-world resilience. |
| Wireless Network Penetration Testing | Corporate / Retail | Wi-Fi, Access Points, IoT Devices | 4–6 Days | Fixed Price | 120,000 – 250,000 | Encryption Strength, Rogue AP Detection | Security Audit + Remediation Plan | Recommended for offices and public networks handling customer access. |
| IoT Device Penetration Testing | Manufacturers / Smart Tech | Device Firmware and Protocol Testing | 10–20 Days | Project Based | 250,000 – 600,000 | Firmware Reverse Engineering & Exploit Tests | Detailed Firmware and Interface Report | Crucial for IoT product companies and automation systems. |
| Annual Security Audit with Penetration Testing | Corporate / SME | Full IT Environment | Annual Contract | Subscription | 500,000 – 1,000,000 / year | Comprehensive Testing Cycle + Continuous Monitoring | Quarterly Reports + Year-end Audit Certificate | Ideal for businesses aiming for ISO 27001 or PCI DSS compliance. |
| Compliance-based Penetration Testing | Healthcare / Finance / SaaS | HIPAA, PCI DSS, GDPR | 10–15 Days | Project Based | 350,000 – 900,000 | Regulation-specific Exploitation Scenarios | Compliance Verification Report | Recommended for regulatory-driven industries. |
the Real Cost of Penetration Testing
Penetration testing is more than a technical audit; it’s a financial decision about risk, protection, and business continuity. In Pakistan, companies invest anywhere between PKR 100,000 and PKR 500,000 for standard web or mobile penetration testing. Larger enterprises with complex infrastructures or cloud ecosystems often spend PKR 300,000 and beyond to ensure complete coverage and compliance.
Each rupee invested returns measurable value — preventing data breaches that could cost millions. That’s why businesses choose IdealSolutions, a company registered under SECP and PSEB, recognized for transparent pricing and results-driven testing.
Web Application Penetration Testing Price Overview
Basic web penetration testing usually starts around PKR 100,000, ideal for small business websites or startups. For e-commerce platforms or dynamic web systems, prices typically range from PKR 200,000 to PKR 500,000, depending on the number of pages, user roles, and integrations.
The pricing reflects manual and automated testing processes, use of real-world exploit simulations, and post-test remediation guidance — ensuring your site is resilient against cyberattacks.
Mobile Application Penetration Testing Cost Range
Mobile app security testing generally costs between PKR 100,000 and PKR 500,000. Factors such as app size, user base, and framework (iOS, Android, or cross-platform) influence the overall budget. IdealSolutions specialists focus on in-depth testing of APIs, backend logic, and encryption protocols, providing a clear vulnerability-to-cost balance.
Cloud Penetration Testing Pricing Insights
Cloud infrastructure assessments typically cost around PKR 300,000. However, this may rise with multi-cloud environments or hybrid configurations. Evaluations include identity misconfigurations, privilege escalations, and real-time data exposure testing. Businesses leveraging AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud often prioritize cloud testing as part of annual compliance budgets.
Network and API Penetration Testing Cost Breakdown
Network penetration testing varies according to internal and external scope. While no fixed rate applies, project-based pricing ensures flexibility for small networks or enterprise-level infrastructure.
For API and SaaS testing, pricing can reach PKR 1,350,000 to PKR 8,100,000, converted from global benchmarks of $5,000 to $30,000 USD. These assessments require advanced simulation tools and certified ethical hackers, such as those at IdealSolutions, led by Zubair Khan, an EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker.
Factors Influencing Penetration Testing Prices
Penetration testing pricing depends on numerous variables:
- Type of test: web, mobile, API, cloud, or network.
- Depth of analysis: black-box, gray-box, or white-box approaches.
- Number of assets: websites, applications, servers, or APIs.
- Testing duration: hourly or fixed project-based engagement.
- Compliance standards: ISO 27001, PCI DSS, GDPR, HIPAA.
Organizations planning yearly audits often allocate PKR 300,000 to PKR 1,000,000 for combined testing packages — an investment that aligns with both risk mitigation and regulatory readiness.
Average Penetration Testing Price in Pakistan
Across Pakistan, the average penetration testing cost falls between PKR 200,000 and PKR 500,000 for small and mid-sized organizations. Larger entities, including banks, telecoms, and SaaS platforms, allocate between PKR 1 million and PKR 8 million for comprehensive red-team exercises and continuous monitoring.
Compared globally, local pricing remains competitive while offering world-class expertise through firms like IdealSolutions, operating from Islamabad near Centaurus Mall, with international branches in the USA, Spain, and Dubai.
Budgeting for Penetration Testing Effectively
Building a cybersecurity budget is not about cost-cutting; it’s about cost optimization. Smart organizations treat penetration testing as a recurring operational expense rather than a one-time project. Regular testing reduces the chance of financial and reputational loss.
By allocating at least 5–10% of their annual IT security budget to penetration testing, businesses maintain resilience and compliance with evolving cyber regulations.
ROI of Penetration Testing for Businesses
Every rupee spent on penetration testing saves multiples in potential losses. A single breach could cost a company PKR 10 million to PKR 50 million in damages, while proactive testing at PKR 500,000 prevents such incidents.
This return-on-security-investment (ROSI) approach highlights why clients choose IdealSolutions — not just for affordability but for measurable outcomes in reduced risk and long-term trust.
Penetration Testing Pricing Models
IdealSolutions offers flexible pricing models based on business needs:
- Fixed-price model: ideal for well-defined scopes and compliance audits.
- Hourly rate model: suitable for ongoing vulnerability assessments.
- Subscription model: monthly or quarterly retests to maintain continuous security posture.
Average hourly rates range from PKR 10,000 to PKR 25,000, depending on tester expertise and project complexity.
Cost Comparison: Local vs International Providers
International penetration testing firms may charge between PKR 1.3 million and PKR 13 million, making local providers like IdealSolutions a cost-effective alternative without compromising quality. With a certified ethical hacking team and partnerships with FIA and PTA, the company delivers global-grade cybersecurity at competitive local rates.
Final Thoughts
Now you understand penetration testing costs in Pakistan, so get your website or business application secured with professional penetration testing services. If you have any questions or want to avail cybersecurity services with free consultancy, feel free to contact IdealSolutions—leading Pakistan cybersecurity firm.
Additional Resources
- Network vs Web Application Penetration Testing: Key Differences
- Internal vs External Penetration Testing: Comprehensive Guide
- Mobile App vs Web App Penetration Testing Comparison
- Cloud Penetration Testing vs Traditional Methods
- Website Penetration Testing: Specialized Security Approach
- Network Penetration Testing Fundamentals and Scope
- Penetration Testing vs Vulnerability Assessment Explained
- What is Mobile App Penetration Testing? Complete Overview
- How to Perform Mobile App Penetration Testing: Step-by-Step
- Different Types of Mobile App Penetration Testing Methods
- Essential Mobile App Penetration Testing Tools
- Common Mobile App Vulnerabilities and Security Risks
- Mobile App Pen Testing vs Vulnerability Assessment
- Static vs Dynamic Analysis in Mobile App Security Testing
- Black Box, Grey Box & White Box Testing Methodologies
- Android vs iOS Penetration Testing Approaches
- Ethical Hacking vs Malicious Hacking: Key Differences
- Red Team vs Blue Team Cybersecurity Strategies
- Top Ethical Hackers and Security Experts in Pakistan
- Leading Cybersecurity Companies to Work For in Pakistan
- Best Cybersecurity Tools for Comprehensive Protection
- Different Types of Cybersecurity Measures and Solutions
- Information Security vs Cybersecurity: Core Differences
- Manual penetration testing versus automated penetration
- What is penetration testing in Urdu?
FAQ
Why do penetration testing prices vary among different cybersecurity companies?
Penetration testing prices vary because every organization has unique systems, goals, and compliance requirements. A simple web application test costs much less than a full-scale red team assessment involving network, cloud, and API layers. IdealSolutions evaluates factors like technology stack, test duration, and reporting depth to offer the most relevant and transparent pricing structure.
How can I get an affordable penetration testing service without compromising quality?
Affordable doesn’t mean low quality when it comes to cybersecurity. Companies like IdealSolutions provide budget-friendly penetration testing options with professional-grade results. By choosing a local provider, you save costs compared to international firms while still benefiting from certified ethical hackers, advanced tools, and complete after-test consultation.
Which type of penetration testing is the most cost-effective?
Web application and mobile app penetration testing are among the most cost-effective types, as they target high-risk entry points that are directly exposed to the public internet. For small businesses and startups, starting with these core areas through IdealSolutions is a practical way to maximize security returns without overspending.
Can penetration testing costs be customized according to project size?
Yes, IdealSolutions offers customized penetration testing packages designed around project size and business type. Whether you’re testing a small website or a large cloud infrastructure, the pricing is flexible and tailored, ensuring that you only pay for the depth and coverage you actually need.
Does penetration testing include post-assessment support in its price?
A professional penetration testing package often includes a post-assessment review, report briefing, and remediation guidance. At IdealSolutions, post-test consultation is part of the standard service, ensuring that every finding is understood and resolved effectively, without extra hidden charges.
Is it possible to calculate penetration testing cost online?
Penetration testing cost calculators can provide rough estimates, but for accurate pricing, it’s better to get a professional evaluation. Online tools can’t fully measure factors like internal systems, application logic, or data sensitivity. IdealSolutions provides cost estimations after an initial scoping session for clarity and transparency.
What are the hidden costs in penetration testing that clients should be aware of?
Hidden costs can include retesting after remediation, extended reporting, or additional environment access. However, IdealSolutions provides complete transparency in pricing with clear deliverables upfront, ensuring that the client pays only for agreed services with no surprise fees.
Can small businesses in Pakistan afford professional penetration testing?
Absolutely. With pricing starting at PKR 100,000, small businesses can easily access professional-grade penetration testing services in Pakistan. IdealSolutions provides scaled solutions to meet different business needs, ensuring even startups get enterprise-level security at manageable costs.
Why is investing in penetration testing more cost-effective than dealing with a breach?
Because a single data breach can cost a business millions in loss, downtime, and brand damage, while penetration testing costs only a fraction of that. Spending PKR 500,000 on proactive testing can prevent a PKR 50 million security incident, making it a financially strategic investment.
Can I request a detailed penetration testing cost breakdown from IdealSolutions?
Yes, you can request a full cost breakdown showing service categories, hours, and scope coverage. IdealSolutionsbelieves in clear, itemized proposals so you can understand where their investment goes and what results to expect.
What makes IdealSolutions better in terms of cost-to-quality ratio?
IdealSolutions maintains a balance between affordability and global standards. Its certified team, partnerships with FIA and PTA, and advanced testing methodologies provide the same depth as international providers at locally competitive prices, ensuring superior ROI.
Is it possible to bundle multiple penetration testing services at a discounted rate?
Yes, combining services such as web, mobile, and network testing under one package often reduces the total cost. IdealSolutions offers bundled options that help clients secure multiple layers of their infrastructure while saving on overall expenditure.
Do penetration testing costs include compliance certifications or reports?
Penetration testing reports prepared by IdealSolutions are formatted to align with international compliance standards. Although certification costs are separate, the detailed report supports audits for ISO 27001, GDPR, PCI DSS, and HIPAA, helping organizations save money during compliance processes.
How can I justify penetration testing costs to company executives?
Executives respond best to risk-to-cost comparisons. Presenting penetration testing as a measurable financial safeguard — where spending PKR 300,000 prevents potential losses in the millions — makes the investment clear. IdealSolutionsprovides executive-level summaries and visual reports to help decision-makers see the direct business value of every test.
