Roadmap to Become an Ethical Hacker
Roadmap to Become an Ethical Hacker
Phase 1: Build the Foundations (4-6 months)
1. Networking Basics:
- Learn how the internet and computer networks work.
- Topics to Cover:
- TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP/HTTPS
- Subnetting, NAT, Firewalls, VPN
- Resources:
- Book: "Computer Networking: Principles, Protocols, and
Practice" by Olivier Bonaventure
- Online Course: "Networking Fundamentals" by Cisco (via
NetAcad)
2. Operating Systems Knowledge:
- Master Linux (preferred for hacking) and Windows.
- Topics to Cover:
- Command line (Linux: bash, Windows: PowerShell)
- File systems, permissions, and basic administration.
- Resources:
- Linux: "Linux for Hackers" by OccupyTheWeb
- Practice on Virtual Machines: Use VirtualBox/VMware.
3. Programming/Scripting:
- Learn a programming language for automation and exploitation.
- Languages to Learn:
- Python (essential for scripting and automation)
- Bash (for Linux commands and scripting)
- JavaScript (for web-related vulnerabilities)
- Resources:
- Python: Codecademy or "Automate the Boring Stuff with Python"
by Al Sweigart
- Bash: TutorialsPoint or OverTheWire (Bandit Challenge)
Phase 2: Learn Cybersecurity Basics (4-6 months)
1. Understand Security Concepts:
- Topics to Cover:
- Basics of cybersecurity (CIA triad: Confidentiality, Integrity,
Availability)
- Encryption, hashing, and authentication mechanisms.
- Resources:
- Course: "Introduction to Cybersecurity" by Coursera (offered by
Cisco).
2. Ethical Hacking Basics:
- Study the 5 Phases of Ethical Hacking:
1. Reconnaissance
2. Scanning
3. Gaining Access
4. Maintaining Access
5. Covering Tracks
- Resources:
- Book: "The Hacker Playbook 3" by Peter Kim
- Tool Practice: Nmap, Metasploit, and Wireshark.
3. Vulnerabilities and Exploits:
- Learn about common vulnerabilities: SQL injection, XSS, CSRF,
etc.
- Resources:
- OWASP Top 10: owasp.org
Phase 3: Hands-On Practice (6-8 months)
1. Set Up a Lab Environment:
- Use VirtualBox/VMware with Kali Linux, Metasploitable, and
Windows VMs.
- Learn and practice using tools:
- Reconnaissance: Nmap, Maltego
- Exploitation: Metasploit, SQLmap
- Web Hacking: Burp Suite, OWASP ZAP
- Resource: "Kali Linux Revealed" by Kali Linux Team.
2. Use Online Platforms for Practice:
- Beginner-Friendly Platforms:
- TryHackMe (Beginner to Intermediate levels)
- Hack The Box (Advanced scenarios)
- CTF Challenges:
- PicoCTF
- OverTheWire (Bandit, Narnia)
- VulnHub
Phase 4: Earn Certifications (3-6 months)
1. Beginner-Level Certifications:
- CompTIA Security+: Intro to cybersecurity principles.
- EC-Council CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker): Industry-standard for
ethical hacking.
- Resources:
- CEH Official Course Material
- "Certified Ethical Hacker All-in-One Exam Guide" by Matt Walker.
2. Advanced Certifications (Optional):
- OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional): Focuses on
penetration testing.
- Resources:
- OSCP labs and "Penetration Testing: A Hands-On Introduction to
Hacking" by Georgia Weidman.
Phase 5: Real-World Application
1. Bug Bounty Programs:
- Join platforms like HackerOne, Bugcrowd, and Synack to find
vulnerabilities in real-world applications.
2. Freelancing or Internships:
- Work as a freelance penetration tester or intern with cybersecurity
firms.
3. Build a Portfolio:
- Document your projects, tools you have built, and vulnerabilities
you have identified.
Tools You Will Use Regularly:
1. Kali Linux Tools: Metasploit, Burp Suite, Wireshark, Nmap, Hydra.
2. Web Exploitation Tools: SQLmap, DirBuster.
3. Password Cracking: John the Ripper, Hashcat.
Estimated Timeline:
- Total Duration: 1.5 to 2 years (with consistent effort).
- Daily Commitment: 2-4 hours.
