Pre-test checklist: What to do before starting a test for your web application
Before starting a penetration test, take a few minutes to verify your configuration. This helps ensure the test runs successfully and produces accurate results.
1) Verify the application details
Before launching a test, confirm that:
- The correct application has been selected.
- The target URL is accurate and accessible.
- You’re testing the intended environment (for example, production, staging, or development).
- Choose the test type as well: gray box testing or black box testing
2) Configure authentication (if required)
If your application requires users to log in, configure authenticated testing before starting the test.
Beagle Security supports multiple authentication methods, including:
- Recorded login
- Login
- Signup
- Third-party login
Configuring authentication allows Beagle Security to test protected areas of your application that aren’t accessible to anonymous users.
3) Review your test configuration
Before starting the test, review your test settings to ensure they match your testing requirements.
For example, verify that any required exclusions, authentication settings, or other test options have been configured correctly.
4) Check application availability
Ensure the application is online and accessible before starting the test. If the application is unavailable or unreachable, Beagle Security won’t be able to crawl or test it successfully.
5) Inform your team (recommended)
If you’re testing a production application, let your development or operations team know in advance. This helps avoid confusion if increased traffic or security alerts are observed while the test is running.
6) Start the test
Once you’ve completed the checklist, you’re ready to start your penetration test.
After the test finishes, review the results dashboard to analyze identified vulnerabilities, understand your application’s security posture, and prioritize remediation efforts.
Updated on: 02/07/2026
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