Hacking Roadmap: Beginner to Advanced
1. Prerequisites (Foundational Knowledge)
✅ Computer Networking – Learn TCP/IP, HTTP/HTTPS, DNS, and VPNs.
✅ Linux Basics – Master CLI, bash scripting, and common commands.
✅ Programming – Python (automation), Bash (scripting), C (memory exploits).
✅ Operating Systems – Windows, Linux (Kali, ParrotOS), Mac security.
✅ Cybersecurity Fundamentals – OWASP Top 10, CIA triad, encryption, hashing.
2. Beginner Level (Ethical Hacking Basics)
🔹 Essential Tools: Nmap, Wireshark, Metasploit, Burp Suite.
🔹 Footprinting & Reconnaissance: OSINT, Google Dorking, WHOIS lookup.
🔹 Scanning & Enumeration: Network scanning, vulnerability scanning.
🔹 Exploitation Basics: Understanding exploits, gaining initial access.
3. Intermediate Level (Pentesting & Exploits)
🛠 Web Application Hacking – SQL Injection, XSS, CSRF, IDOR.
🔓 Wireless Hacking – WPA2 cracking, MITM attacks, Evil Twin.
🎭 Social Engineering – Phishing, pretexting, impersonation.
🔑 Privilege Escalation – Linux & Windows priv-esc techniques.
💾 Reverse Engineering & Malware Analysis – Debuggers, disassemblers.
4. Advanced Level (Specialization & Real-World Testing)
🕵️♂️ Bug Bounty Hunting – Hunting for zero-days, fuzzing, writing PoCs.
🔗 Active Directory Exploitation – Kerberoasting, Pass-the-Hash, Lateral Movement.
🌐 Cloud Security – AWS, Azure, GCP pentesting.
🔒 Red Teaming & Blue Teaming – Offense & defense strategies.
5. Certifications & Career Path
🎓 Certifications: CEH, OSCP, PNPT, CISSP, eJPT.
💼 Career Options: Penetration Tester, Security Analyst, Red Team, SOC Analyst.