Combating cyber warfare threats has become a matter of concern for individuals as well as organizations. More commonly referred to as white-hat hackers, ethical hackers are invaluable in stemming the tide allowing bad actors to infiltrate systems before they can. Thus, if you are interested in problem solving and cybersecurity, there is not going to be a problem embracing a profession of an ethical hacker.
What is Ethical Hacking?
Ethical hacking on the other hand involves the legal use of hacking methods in prospecting the weaknesses in the computer systems, application and the network in order the owner to prevent cyber criminals from exploiting these weaknesses. Incident work includes: Penetration testing or finding vulnerabilities in software or an organizational structure’s protocols. Below are the recommendations that help a beginner get started.
Step 1: Networking & Security – Get to Know the Basics
To pursue any profession, one must know how that career functions. Therefore ensure you have adequate knowledge on how computer systems and networks work, concepts such as IP addresses and DNS, concepts such as firewalls, TCP/IP and much more.
Learn the basics of cybersecurity: encryption, for the two main types of malware, and for the various forms of defense. Good knowledge of the areas mentioned above is vital for that purpose.
Step 2: Learn about Operating Systems and Software
Many hackers do their operations in special OSs. It is important to master the Linux operating system particularly Kali Linux as well as the windows operating systems. Also, begin to use hacking tools; favorite one, tool which is rather popular all over the world: Nmap, Metasploit, Wireshark, etc. In order to use them for gaining active experience in controlled environments like virtual labs.
Step 3: Certifications Are the Best Way to Build up Your Skills
Certifications gives an assurance on the given skills and as well enhances credibility within the given field. Feel free to start with certifications like:
*CompTIA Security+: Sometimes they outline fundamental cybersecurity concepts.
*Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Aims at the hacking methodologies and resources.
*Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP): Covers practical exercises on penetration testing.
These certifications does not only increase ones expertise but also improve your employment opportunities with an organization.
Step 4: Practice in Safe Environments
As with every skill, it also takes time to get into the nitty-gritty of ethical hacking. You can only polish your skills in safe environment. Connect with Hack The Box and TryHackMe for instance, they offer hacking environments where you practice hacking exercises and do not break the law. Some firms, including Google and Microsoft, haveBug Bounty Programs in which hackers such as Julian are welcome to identify the loopholes in exchange for being paid.
Step 5: Stay Updated and Network
Cybersecurity is a dynamic subject of study. Make sure you read and follow relevant blogs, forums and do not miss out on conferences. Sharing experiences with other ethical hackers that are involved in the practice on online forums will be useful.
The Path Ahead
Ethical hacking brings with it a number of requirements these include time, curiosity and education. While following this blueprint and keeping the ethical grounds robust, you can help make this digital world a safer place, and, at the same time, earn yourself a well-rewarded career.
