How to Hack?
To begin with, a solid foundation in Linux and networking is crucial. Additionally, proficiency in various programming languages such as Bash, Python, C, PHP, and Ruby is highly beneficial. Familiarity with tools like Metasploit and vulnerability scanners can greatly enhance your skill set. Knowledge of Active Directory is also essential, given its ubiquitous presence in most corporate environments. The following guide provides a basic outline to get you started. While it may not be perfectly suited to everyone's needs, it should serve as a helpful starting point in your journey towards improving your hacking skills.
Begin by setting up a home lab and familiarizing yourself with various operating systems, including Linux, Mac, and Windows. Acquire a solid understanding of networking fundamentals. At this point, it's crucial to devise a learning strategy. Are you planning to use books, enroll in courses, or perhaps a combination of both? Start by setting achievable goals, such as mastering the basics of the Linux command line and directory navigation. As for certifications, consider starting with A+ and CompTIA Network+ to validate your foundational knowledge and skills
Fundamentals
Once you've mastered the basics and feel confident in your abilities, it's time to delve deeper into the technical aspects and methodologies of penetration testing. Concentrate on acquiring new techniques and tools, and establish a professional testing schema. At this stage, report writing and note-taking should become integral parts of your process. You should also be comfortable tackling basic vulnerable machines, such as the easy boxes on HackTheBox. As for certifications, consider pursuing ones like CompTIA Security+ or its equivalent to further validate your skills and knowledge.
Intermediate
At this stage, you can delve into more advanced topics such as exploit development, web and mobile app testing, digital forensics and incident response (DFIR), threat hunting, malware analysis, and reverse engineering. It's a time of self-discovery; you'll know when you've found your niche. Some might be drawn to bug bounty hunting, while others might not. Regardless of the path you choose, remember to acknowledge your progress and give yourself a pat on the back. For those interested in bug bounty hunting, consider exploring resources like HackerOne. As for certifications, you might want to consider CompTIA PenTest+ or a similar qualification to further enhance your credibility in the field.
Advanced
For those with existing penetration testing experience, this stage is dedicated to gaining advanced and in-depth knowledge of the most potent and prevalent attack vectors. It's at this level that you might begin to explore malware development. For an introduction to malware development, consider resources like Sektor7. Writing your own custom exploits becomes a regular practice at this stage, allowing you to tailor your approach to specific vulnerabilities and systems. This level of expertise involves not only advanced penetration testing but also the creation of custom shellcode, further enhancing your ability to exploit vulnerabilities.
Professional
At this stage, you've established a robust foundation in networking, internet protocols, IT security issues, and penetration testing concepts. You've also developed the ability to read, write, and understand code. Your focus should now shift towards obtaining professional certifications, such as the Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP). By now, your path should be clear. Many individuals at this level choose to pursue the OSCP, a highly respected certification in the field, to further validate their expertise and dedication to the craft.