Roadmap to Become a Powerful Ethical Hacker
Phase 1: Computer & Networking Basics (1-2 months)
Goal: Understand how computers and the internet work
What to Learn:
- Operating Systems (Windows, Linux basics)
- How the internet works
- IP address, DNS, HTTP/HTTPS, ports
Time: 1 hour daily - Finish in 1-2 months
Resources:
- YouTube: "Computer Networking Basics for Beginners"
- Book: "Computer Fundamentals"
- Website: geeksforgeeks.org
Phase 2: Programming Basics (3-4 months)
Goal: Learn Python to build tools and scripts for hacking
What to Learn:
- Python (variables, loops, functions, etc.)
- File handling, socket programming, requests module
- Basic bash scripting (for Linux automation)
Time: 1.5 hours daily - 3-4 months
Resources:
- w3schools.com/python
- YouTube: CodeWithHarry - Python Series
- TryHackMe: "Intro to Python for Hacking"
Phase 3: Linux Mastery (1-2 months)
Goal: Learn how to use Linux and its terminal like a pro
What to Learn:
Roadmap to Become a Powerful Ethical Hacker
- How to install and use Kali Linux (or Parrot OS)
- Terminal commands, file navigation
- Permissions, users, services
Time: 1 hour daily - 1-2 months
Resources:
- YouTube: "Kali Linux for Beginners"
- Practice in VirtualBox or USB boot
Phase 4: Web Development Basics (2-3 months)
Goal: Understand how websites work (very important for bug bounty)
What to Learn:
- HTML, CSS, JavaScript (Basics only)
- How websites work (client-server, forms, cookies)
Time: 1.5 hours daily - 2-3 months
Resources:
- freecodecamp.org
- YouTube: CodeWithHarry - Web Dev Series
Phase 5: Ethical Hacking & Tools (4-5 months)
Goal: Learn real-world hacking tools and techniques
What to Learn:
- Tools: Nmap, Burp Suite, Wireshark, Metasploit
- Web attacks: SQLi, XSS, CSRF, IDOR, RCE
- Start solving CTF challenges (beginner level)
Time: 2 hours daily - 4-5 months
Platforms:
- TryHackMe
- Hack The Box (Beginner level)
Roadmap to Become a Powerful Ethical Hacker
Phase 6: Bug Bounty Hunting (6+ months)
Goal: Hack real websites legally and earn rewards
What to Learn:
- Deep understanding of web vulnerabilities
- Writing bug reports (Proof of Concept, Impact)
- Real programs: HackerOne, Bugcrowd, Intigriti
Time: 2+ hours daily - Ongoing (6+ months)
Resources:
- PortSwigger Web Security Academy
- YouTube: NahamSec, InsiderPhD
- Read real writeups
Bonus Phase: Advanced Topics (1+ year)
What to Learn:
- Malware analysis, Reverse engineering
- Red Teaming, Exploit development
- Advanced certifications (OSCP, CEH, etc.)
Start this when you're intermediate level
Total Estimated Time
If you study 1.5-2 hours daily:
You can become an expert ethical hacker in 1.5 to 2 years.