Performing Kubernetes Penetration Testing

Overview

Kubernetes penetration testing systematically evaluates cluster security by simulating attacker techniques against the API server, kubelet, etcd, pods, RBAC, network policies, and secrets. Using tools like kube-hunter, Kubescape, peirates, and manual kubectl exploitation, testers identify misconfigurations that could lead to cluster compromise.

When to Use

• When conducting security assessments that involve performing kubernetes penetration testing
• When following incident response procedures for related security events
• When performing scheduled security testing or auditing activities
• When validating security controls through hands-on testing

Prerequisites

• Authorized penetration testing engagement
• Kubernetes cluster access (various levels for different test scenarios)
• kube-hunter, kubescape, kube-bench installed
• kubectl configured
• Network access to cluster components

Core Concepts

Kubernetes Attack Surface