Test recurrence and depth
Last updated: May 6, 2026
The Strike platform lets you configure testing around two key variables: depth and recurrence.
These two dimensions define the level of coverage, how often assessments run, and how well risks can be detected over time.
Testing depth
Depth defines the level of analysis applied to each asset, shaping how much time, context, and complexity go into its evaluation.
There are three levels:
Deep
Exhaustive testing with maximum coverage and accuracy.
Technical features:
Extended reconnaissance with attack path discovery
Advanced exploit chaining, combining lower-severity findings into high-impact scenarios
In-depth evaluation of business logic and complex multi-step attacks
Longer execution time per target, prioritizing thoroughness over speed
👉 Ideal for critical assets, pre-launch reviews, and high-value targets.
Medium
Balanced analysis focused on the most exposed attack surface.
Technical features:
Targeted reconnaissance on the main entry points
Validation of known vulnerabilities and common attack patterns
Coverage of critical flows (authentication, sensitive endpoints, etc.)
Tuned for faster response times without losing depth on key areas
👉 Ideal for regular security checks and relevant assets.
Superficial
Automated assessment to validate the overall security posture.
Technical features:
Automated scan based on detection of known vulnerabilities
Identification of insecure configurations and common exposures (CVEs, misconfigurations)
Broad coverage focused on catalogued risks
Fast, scalable execution across multiple assets
👉 Ideal for low-criticality assets and continuous monitoring.
Testing recurrence
Recurrence defines how often an asset is evaluated.
Typical options:
Monthly
Quarterly
Bi-annual
Annual
👉 The recommended frequency depends on:
The asset's criticality
How often it changes
Its level of exposure
💡 FAQ
Can recurrence be turned on or off?
Yes. Recurrence can be turned off at any time.
Doing so stops future executions on the asset. However, this doesn't free up the assigned capacity — it simply pauses the next execution until recurrence is turned back on.
👉 When you turn it back on, testing resumes according to the defined setup.
How they work together
Final coverage comes from how depth and recurrence are combined.
For example:
Critical asset → Deep + high recurrence
Stable asset → Medium + lower frequency
👉 This lets you adapt testing to the real context of the business.
Why recurrence matters
In dynamic environments, systems are constantly changing.
That means:
New vulnerabilities can surface at any moment
A one-off test quickly loses relevance
👉 Continuous validation helps detect risks as they emerge.
Business impact
Configuring depth and recurrence well lets you:
Detect vulnerabilities earlier
Shorten the exposure window
Prioritize security resources
Keep up with the pace of change
👉 It's not about testing more — it's about bringing risk down over time.
Combining depth and recurrence is how you build a testing strategy that's aligned with the business, ensuring continuous coverage and early risk detection.