What is typically included in a List of Tools section of a penetration test report?

In a penetration test report, the List of Tools section serves to provide an inventory of the various tools and technologies that were utilized during the testing process. This section highlights not only the names of the tools but often includes a brief description of their specific purposes or roles in the assessment.

Including this information is crucial for several reasons. It allows stakeholders to understand the methods and technologies applied during the testing, ensuring transparency in the process. Additionally, documenting the tools used can serve as a reference for subsequent assessments, helping future teams replicate or understand the testing methodologies employed.

While summaries of vulnerabilities, descriptions of network topology, and guides to incident response are important components of a comprehensive report, they are not suited for this particular section. The focus of the List of Tools is clearly on the tools themselves, making it distinct from other report sections that might deal with findings or recommendations.