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NodeZero® Host

The NodeZero Host is a critical component of the NodeZero solution, enabling internal penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities within your network.

What is a NodeZero Host?

A NodeZero Host is a dedicated system that facilitates internal penetration testing within your network. It serves as the entry point for NodeZero’s automated security assessments, allowing organizations to identify vulnerabilities inside their infrastructure. Unlike external tests that evaluate internet-facing assets, a NodeZero Host is essential for internal pentests, where threats originate from within a corporate network.

Features

  • Performs internal pentests by simulating real-world attacks from within your network.
  • Executes automated security assessments to uncover misconfigurations, weak credentials, and exploitable vulnerabilities.
  • Communicates with the NodeZero Portal to deliver test results and remediation insights.
  • Operates securely within your environment, ensuring data privacy during assessments.

Use Cases

  • Test internal security controls, such as Active Directory or internal applications.
  • Simulate insider threats or compromised employee devices.
  • Validate network segmentation and access control policies.
  • Ensure compliance with security frameworks (e.g., PCI-DSS, HIPAA, NIST).

Deployment Strategy

The effectiveness of your NodeZero Host depends on its Placement and Intent, which determine the scope and focus of your pentest:

  • Placement: Specifies the host’s location within your network.
  • Intent: Sets the scope and objectives of the test.

Explore the Deployment Strategy page for a comprehensive overview of strategies to optimize your pentesting approach.

verified_user Deployment Strategy chevron_right
Plan your NodeZero Host’s placement and intent to identify vulnerabilities.

Methods to Deploy

Deploy your NodeZero Host using one of two methods: the NodeZero OVA (recommended) for quick setup in virtual environments, or manual installation on a Linux system. The OVA method offers a streamlined installation with automatic updates, while manual installation provides more control for Linux users.

Our Quickstart guides provide step-by-step instructions for installing and configuring your NodeZero Host:

deployed_code Preconfigured OVA chevron_right
Recommended
Use a Preconfigured Open Virtual Appliance (OVA) VM image for quick deployment in virtual environments (e.g., VMware, VirtualBox).
  • Includes a utility to keep the NodeZero Host updated.
  • Includes NodeZero Command Line Interface (CLI).
build Manual Installation chevron_right
Install the NodeZero Host manually on Linux for more control. This method requires dependency setup and configuration.
  • Direct setup on a Linux-based system.
  • Install using a script or manual package setup.