Software · 0 agencies
IT security agencies in Cologne compared
IT security can't be bolted on afterward, but it can absolutely be tested before something happens. These agencies run penetration tests, security audits, and hardening projects, sorted by proof, minimum budget, and specialization.
No agencies in this category yet in Cologne. List your agency →
Guide
What IT security agencies actually do
A penetration test simulates a real attack on your systems to find vulnerabilities before someone else does. A security audit systematically checks configuration, processes, and permissions against recognized standards. Beyond that, many agencies support ISO 27001 implementation or industry-specific requirements like TISAX, train staff on security awareness, or take on ongoing monitoring that detects attacks in real time instead of after the fact.
What to look for when choosing a provider
Certified testers, for instance holding OSCP or comparable recognized qualifications, are an important signal, but no guarantee of quality. Ask for anonymized reports from past projects to gauge the actual depth of the work.
Clarify the scope precisely before starting: a penetration test can be limited to a single web application or cover the entire infrastructure, with correspondingly different effort and price. A vaguely worded engagement leads to unpleasant surprises on the invoice.
It also matters how discovered vulnerabilities are handled: a good report prioritizes by actual risk and delivers concrete recommendations, not a bare list of technical findings without context. And ask for a written authorization that legally covers the test. Without that sign-off, a penetration test operates in a legal gray zone.
What IT security costs
€150 to €250 per hour is common for specialized security experts. A penetration test of a single web application costs €5,000 to €15,000. A comprehensive test of the entire infrastructure runs €15,000 to €60,000. Support through an ISO 27001 certification costs, depending on company size, €20,000 to €80,000 across the full certification process.
Typical security projects
Penetration testing before launching a new web application. Security audit of existing infrastructure after an incident at a competitor. Support through ISO 27001 or TISAX certification. Building continuous monitoring for attack detection.
Compare testing providers
Ranked by score, ads marked as such. In the search tool, filter by proof such as ISO 27001 or TISAX, or submit a request.
Frequently asked questions
IT security agencies: questions and answers
What does a penetration test cost?
A test of a single web application costs €5,000 to €15,000, a comprehensive test of the entire infrastructure €15,000 to €60,000. Specialized security experts charge €150 to €250 per hour.
How often should a penetration test be repeated?
At least once a year, and after every major change to security-relevant systems. Attack methods keep evolving, and a test from a year ago says little about current vulnerabilities.
What's the difference between a penetration test and a security audit?
A penetration test simulates an active attack to actually exploit specific vulnerabilities. A security audit systematically checks configuration, processes, and documentation against a standard, without actively attacking anything. The two complement each other: an audit uncovers structural gaps, a penetration test shows which of them are actually exploitable.
Do I need a penetration test as a small company?
Yes, as soon as you process sensitive customer data or run a publicly reachable application. Company size doesn't protect you from attacks. Automated attack tools don't distinguish between small and large targets. A simple, focused test of your most important systems is often possible on a manageable budget.