A penetration test (also known as a "pentest") is a simulated cyber attack on a computer system, network, or web application to evaluate the security of the system. The goal of a penetration test is to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in the system in order to gain unauthorized access or perform other malicious actions. Penetration testing is typically performed by ethical hackers or security professionals who use a combination of manual and automated techniques to identify and exploit vulnerabilities.
A cyber security assessment, on the other hand, is a broader evaluation of an organization's overall security posture. It typically includes a review of the organization's policies, procedures, and technical controls to identify potential vulnerabilities and areas for improvement. A cyber security assessment may also include vulnerability scanning, penetration testing, and compliance testing. However, unlike a penetration test, the goal of a cyber security assessment is not to exploit vulnerabilities but rather to identify and prioritize risks to the organization and provide recommendations for mitigating those risks.
In summary, penetration testing is a simulated cyber attack that is used to evaluate the security of a specific system or application. A cyber security assessment, on the other hand, is a broader evaluation of an organization's overall security posture that includes a review of policies, procedures, and technical controls.