Calling all cybersecurity gurus: What's the cost for VAPT in India?

How Much Does VAPT Really Cost in India?

A Breakdown Cybersecurity Firms Won’t Advertise"

"A surprising yet practical insight has emerged on the real-world costs of Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) services in India. This exclusive community-verified information reveals a wide spectrum of pricing, strategies, and vendor practices, particularly useful for startups, SMEs, and tech decision-makers.


:light_bulb: Core Takeaways (compiled from multiple sources):

:small_blue_diamond: Freelancers or small firms often offer VAPT services in India starting as low as ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 per website or small application. This typically includes basic OWASP Top 10 vulnerability scans and reporting.

:small_blue_diamond: For medium-sized projects or organizations needing more comprehensive assessments (e.g., networks, APIs, web apps), costs typically range from ₹25,000 to ₹1,00,000, depending on complexity.

:small_blue_diamond: Enterprise-grade penetration tests, especially those with compliance needs (e.g., ISO 27001, PCI-DSS), can go beyond ₹2,00,000. This includes manual testing, in-depth reporting, retesting, and remediation support.

:small_blue_diamond: Some educational or open-source communities offer free or deeply discounted assessments, especially for non-profits or student startups—though these are rare and often informal.


:pushpin: Popular Trusted Vendors Mentioned:


:magnifying_glass_tilted_left: Tips for Getting the Best Deal:

  1. Bundle services: Many firms offer discounts when VAPT is bundled with SOC audits, firewall configuration, or incident response packages.
  2. Opt for annual contracts instead of one-time tests—they often reduce per-test costs significantly.
  3. Ask for methodology: Always demand a clear explanation of the testing framework (e.g., PTES, OSSTMM, OWASP) and deliverables.

:brain: Pro Tip: If you’re on a tight budget but still want solid testing, consider hiring certified freelancers (OSCP, CEH, etc.) via platforms like Upwork or Fiverr—many offer white-label services to agencies at reduced prices.


Final Word: VAPT in India has become increasingly affordable and competitive—if you know where to look. While top-tier services still command a premium, smart negotiation and vendor vetting can unlock serious value for both startups and established companies."

TOPIC MARKED AS SOLVED! :white_check_mark:

3 Likes