In this article, we will be talking about the “Ethical Hacking Learning Path - Complete Roadmap,” which will help you to find the best path to start your career in the ethical hacking domain.
1. Fundamentals:
- Computer Networks: Understand basic network protocols, OSI model, sub-netting, and VPN.
- Computer Skills: Familiarity with basic computer operations, file systems, and structures.
- Operating Systems: Knowledge of Windows, Linux, and macOS. Focus more on Linux — commands, file system, permissions, and scripting.
2. Basic Security Techniques:
- Cryptography: Understand encryption & decryption, public key infrastructure, SSL, and hashing algorithms.
- Basic Malware Analysis: Learn about different types of malware and their behavior.
- Basics of Cyber Laws: Familiarize yourself with prevailing cyber laws in your region.
3. Setting up Lab:
Before delving into hacking, set up a controlled environment to practice:
- Virtualization: Learn to use platforms like VMware or VirtualBox.
- Install Vulnerable Systems: Metasploitable, DVWA (Damn Vulnerable Web Application), WebGoat, etc.
4. Learning about Tools:
- Nmap & Zenmap: For port scanning and network mapping.
- Wireshark: For network traffic analysis.
- Metasploit: For vulnerability discovery and exploit.
- John the Ripper & Hydra: For password cracking.
- Burp Suite & OWASP ZAP: For web application vulnerability assessment.
5. Developing Specialization:
- Web Application Security: SQL injection, XSS, CSRF, session management issues, and more.
- Network Security: Man-in-the-middle attacks, ARP spoofing, DoS/DDoS, etc.
- Wireless Security: Cracking WEP/WPA/WPA2, rogue access points, evil twin attacks.
- Malware Analysis & Reverse Engineering: Analyzing malicious software behavior, code, and intent.
- Cloud Security: Vulnerabilities in cloud infrastructure, misconfigured S3 buckets, etc.
6. Advanced Topics:
- IoT Security: Learn about vulnerabilities in connected devices.
- Mobile Security: Focus on Android & iOS vulnerabilities, mobile malware.
- Forensics: Digital forensics tools and techniques for evidence recovery.
- Incident Response: How to manage, mitigate, and recover from security incidents.
7. Hands-on Experience:
- Capture The Flag (CTF) Challenges: Sites like Hack The Box, CTFTime, and TryHackMe.
- Bug Bounty Programs: Platforms like HackerOne, Bugcrowd, and Open Bug Bounty.
8. Certifications:
- CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)
- OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional)
- CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)
- CompTIA Security+
9. Continuous Learning:
Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field. Stay updated with:
- Blogs & News: Websites like KrebsOnSecurity, The Hacker News, and Dark Reading.
- Forums & Communities: Join platforms like Stack Exchange’s Information Security, Reddit’s r/netsec.
- Conferences: Attend DEF CON, Black Hat, and local security meet-ups.
10. Soft Skills:
- Ethics: Always follow the ethical guidelines. Unauthorized hacking is illegal.
- Problem-Solving: Think like an attacker to find vulnerabilities.
- Communication: Ability to clearly convey findings and recommendations.
Remember, becoming proficient in ethical hacking requires persistence, hands-on experience, and continuous learning. Start with the basics, build strong foundational knowledge, and progress to more advanced topics over time.
