Web Application
Penetration Tester
Roadmap
An in-depth guide on becoming a proficient web
application penetration tester.
Myself
. M. Faruk Ahmed
SSP, CC, CISA, CDCP, ITAF Reviewer
Sc in CSE (IU), M.Sc in SE, CEMBA, DAIBB
ofessional Details:
eam Lead, IT Audit & Cyber Security
nior Principal Officer (Senior Programmer),
pali Bank Limited.
om Feb, 2012 – Till now
linkedin.com/in/gmfaru
oject: CBS, DC, DR, ICT Security Policy, BCP
ftware Engineer Youtube.com/learnsplac
EADS Corporation Limited
om Dec, 2008 to Feb, 2012
https://www.gmfaruk.c
oject: Core Banking Solution
Agenda
1 2 3
Introduction Getting Started Learning
Programming
4 5 6
Networking Operating Systems Introduction to
Fundamentals Knowledge Cybersecurity
7 8 9
Sensitive Data Tools for Pentesting Web Application
Exposure Firewalls (WAF)
10 11 12
Career Path Options Conclusion Soft Skills
Development
13 14 15
Cross-Site Request Broken Access Security
Forgery (CSRF) Control Misconfigurations
Introduction
Overview of web application penetration testing.
Importance and growing demand in cybersecurity.
25 26
Certifications Penetration Testing
Methodologies
Getting Started
Fundamental skills and prerequisites.
Basic understanding of networks, OS, and cybersecurity concepts.
Learning Programming
Recommended languages: Python, JavaScript, and SQL.
Role of coding skills in penetration testing.
Networking Fundamentals
Understanding TCP/IP, HTTP/S, DNS.
Network layers and protocols vital for testing.
Operating Systems Knowledge
Familiarity with Linux, Windows, and macOS.
Basics of command-line interfaces.
Introduction to Cybersecurity
Concepts like CIA triad, risk management, and encryption.
Basic security protocols and frameworks.
Web Application Basics
Understanding web architecture, servers, and databases.
Common platforms: Apache, Nginx, SQL databases.
Setting Up Lab Environment
Using virtual machines and Docker.
Testing tools: Burp Suite, OWASP ZAP, Metasploit.
Web Technologies
Familiarity with HTML, CSS, JavaScript.
Backend languages: PHP, Python, Ruby, Node.js.
Authentication & Session Management
Understanding login mechanisms and session cookies.
Common vulnerabilities in authentication.
Input Validation
Importance of sanitizing inputs to prevent injections.
Introduction to SQL and command injection vulnerabilities.
Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
Understanding XSS and its types (Reflected, Stored, DOM).
Techniques for detecting and exploiting XSS.
Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)
How CSRF attacks occur and their impacts.
Mitigation techniques and prevention strategies.
Broken Access Control
Testing access control flaws in web applications.
OWASP guidelines for proper access management.
Security Misconfigurations
Identifying and fixing security misconfigurations.
Examples: error messages, default settings, open ports.
Sensitive Data Exposure
Importance of encrypting sensitive data.
Techniques to detect unencrypted data and mitigate risks.
Tools for Pentesting
Overview of Burp Suite, Nmap, Nikto, and more.
Using automated tools for vulnerability detection.
Web Application Firewalls (WAF)
Role of WAFs in protecting web apps.
Testing bypass techniques for WAFs.
API Security Testing
Testing REST and SOAP APIs.
Common API vulnerabilities: improper authentication, rate limiting.
Bug Bounty Programs
Getting started with bug bounty platforms.
Practicing and gaining real-world experience.
OWASP Top 10
Understanding and testing OWASP Top 10 vulnerabilities.
Why these vulnerabilities are prioritized.
Reporting Findings
Importance of clear and concise reporting.
Creating executive summaries and detailed technical reports.
Maintaining Confidentiality
Ethical considerations and legal implications.
Non-disclosure agreements and client privacy.
Continuous Learning
Staying updated with the latest vulnerabilities and tools.
Joining cybersecurity communities and forums.
Certifications
Recommended certifications: CEH, OSCP, GWAPT.
Importance of certifications in career growth.
Penetration Testing Methodologies
Popular methodologies: PTES, OWASP Testing Guide.
Following structured approaches in tests.
Soft Skills Development
Communication, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
Importance of presenting findings effectively.
Career Path Options
Different roles: security analyst, consultant, researcher.
Average salaries and growth potential.
Conclusion
Summary of skills and steps to become a web application penetration tester.
Encouragement for continuous improvement and ethical responsibility.
Thank You!
linkedin.com/in/
linkedin.com/in/gmfaruk/
