This roadmap provides a structured approach to learning ethical hacking. It covers various domains including mobile, computer, laptop, and server systems, as well as essential languages, tools, and concepts.
- Understanding Ethical Hacking: Learn about ethical hacking, its legal implications, and how it differs from malicious hacking.
- Legal and Ethical Issues: Study laws, regulations, and ethical guidelines in cybersecurity. Familiarize yourself with the legal aspects of hacking and the importance of consent.
- Networking Concepts: Learn about the OSI model, TCP/IP stack, subnets, and network protocols.
- Common Protocols: Study HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, SMTP, POP, IMAP, DNS, DHCP, and how they operate.
- Operating Systems: Gain knowledge about different operating systems like Windows, Linux, and macOS. Understand their file systems, user management, and security features.
- System Architecture: Learn about CPU, RAM, storage, and how these components interact with the OS.
- Python: Essential for scripting and automating tasks. Learn libraries like Scapy, Requests, and BeautifulSoup.
- Bash/Shell Scripting: Useful for automating tasks on Unix/Linux systems.
- JavaScript: Understand client-side scripting, especially for web application security.
- C/C++: Learn these for understanding low-level operations and vulnerabilities like buffer overflows.
- SQL: Essential for understanding SQL injection and database security.
- Reconnaissance Tools:
- Nmap: Network scanning and vulnerability discovery.
- Wireshark: Network traffic analysis.
- Shodan: Internet of Things (IoT) and device discovery.
- Vulnerability Assessment:
- Nessus: Comprehensive vulnerability scanner.
- OpenVAS: Open-source vulnerability scanning tool.
- Exploitation Frameworks:
- Metasploit: Exploitation framework with numerous modules for penetration testing.
- Burp Suite: Web application security testing.
- Password Cracking:
- John the Ripper: Password cracking tool.
- Hashcat: Advanced password recovery tool.
- Social Engineering:
- Social Engineering Toolkit (SET): Tool for social engineering attacks.
- Wireless Security:
- Aircrack-ng: Suite of tools for wireless network security.
- Kismet: Wireless network detector and sniffer.
- Reverse Engineering:
- Ghidra: Software reverse engineering framework.
- IDA Pro: Disassembler and debugger.
- Forensics:
- Autopsy: Digital forensics platform.
- Sleuth Kit: Collection of command-line tools for forensic analysis.
- Android Security: Learn about Android architecture, common vulnerabilities, and tools like Apktool and JADX.
- iOS Security: Understand iOS security features and tools like Cydia Impactor and Frida.
- OWASP Top 10: Study the top vulnerabilities in web applications such as SQL Injection, Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), and Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF).
- Web Security Testing: Learn how to use tools like Burp Suite and OWASP ZAP for web application security testing.
- Denial of Service (DoS): Understand DoS and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks.
- Man-in-the-Middle (MitM): Learn about MitM attacks and how to detect and prevent them.
- Privilege Escalation: Study methods for gaining elevated privileges on systems.
- Penetration Testing Process: Understand the phases of penetration testing: reconnaissance, scanning, exploitation, and reporting.
- Report Writing: Learn how to document findings and create detailed reports.
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Entry-level certification for ethical hacking.
- Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP): Advanced certification for penetration testing.
- CompTIA Security+: General cybersecurity certification.
- Labs and Practice: Engage in hands-on labs and practice environments like Hack The Box, TryHackMe, and CTF (Capture The Flag) challenges.
- Build a Home Lab: Set up your own lab with virtual machines to practice and test your skills in a controlled environment.
- Continuous Learning: Stay informed about the latest vulnerabilities, exploits, and security trends by following blogs, forums, and cybersecurity news.
- Books:
- "The Web Application Hacker's Handbook" by Dafydd Stuttard and Marcus Pinto
- "Hacking: The Art of Exploitation" by Jon Erickson
- Websites:
Becoming an ethical hacker requires a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. This roadmap covers the essentials, but always remember to use your skills responsibly and ethically.