Penetration Testing Roadmap for Beginners
1. Learn the Basics of Networking and Operating Systems
Before diving into pen testing, it’s important to have a strong understanding of
how networks and operating systems work.
- Networking Concepts: Study how data flows through networks, common
protocols (TCP/IP, HTTP, DNS, etc.), and network devices (routers, firewalls,
switches).
- Resources:
- Books: "Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach" by Kurose & Ross.
- Courses: Cisco's CCNA course (good for network fundamentals).
- Operating Systems: Focus on learning Linux (especially distributions like Kali
Linux and Parrot OS) since most pen testers use Linux tools. Understanding
Windows systems is also crucial.
- Linux Basics:
- Books: "Linux Basics for Hackers" by OccupyTheWeb.
- Courses: Online tutorials for Linux (Try Ubuntu, then move to Kali Linux).
2. Understand Cybersecurity Fundamentals
Develop a foundational understanding of information security, including key
principles like confidentiality, integrity, and availability (CIA triad).
- Security Concepts: Encryption, authentication, access control, firewalls, VPNs,
etc.
- Resources:
- Books: "The Web Application Hacker’s Handbook" by Dafydd Stuttard and
Marcus Pinto.
- Courses: Cybrary’s Security+ or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) introductory
courses.
3. Learn Scripting and Programming
Understanding scripting and coding will help you automate tasks, write exploits,
and modify scripts for pen testing.
- Languages to Learn:
- Python: Widely used in cybersecurity for scripting.
- Bash: For automating Linux tasks.
- JavaScript: Useful for web application testing.
- SQL: Learn basic SQL to understand database vulnerabilities.
- Resources:
- Python: "Automate the Boring Stuff with Python" (book or free course).
- SQL: Codecademy SQL course.
- Bash: "Bash Scripting for Beginners" (free tutorials).
4. Explore Penetration Testing Methodologies
Start by learning the phases of penetration testing:
- Reconnaissance: Gathering information about the target (open-source
intelligence gathering).
- Scanning: Identifying vulnerabilities (port scanning, network scanning).
- Exploitation: Exploiting vulnerabilities to gain access to the system.
- Post-Exploitation: Maintaining access, escalating privileges, extracting data.
- Reporting: Documenting vulnerabilities and providing recommendations.
- Resources:
- OWASP Penetration Testing Guide.
- "The Hacker Playbook" series by Peter Kim (great for practical scenarios).
5. Hands-On Practice (Lab Environments)
Setting up and practicing in a lab environment is crucial.
- Kali Linux: Install this pen-testing distribution and learn the tools (like Nmap,
Wireshark, Metasploit).
- Practice on Platforms:
- Hack The Box: A popular platform where you can legally practice hacking.
- TryHackMe: Beginner-friendly tutorials and labs.
- VulnHub: Virtual machines with vulnerabilities for practice.
- OverTheWire: Wargames that teach Linux and network security.
6. Learn Web Application Penetration Testing
A lot of penetration testing involves web applications. You’ll need to be familiar
with web vulnerabilities like:
- Common Vulnerabilities: SQL Injection, Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), Cross-Site
Request Forgery (CSRF).
- Tools: Burp Suite, OWASP ZAP.
- Resources:
- OWASP’s Web Security Testing Guide.
- "The Web Application Hacker's Handbook".
7. Explore Network Penetration Testing
Network pen testing focuses on finding vulnerabilities in network configurations.
- Tools: Nmap (network scanning), Wireshark (network packet analysis),
Metasploit (exploitation framework).
- Resources:
- Books: "Nmap Network Scanning" by Gordon Fyodor Lyon.
- "Mastering Metasploit" by Nipun Jaswal.
8. Learn Exploit Development (Advanced)
As you advance, you can start learning exploit development to understand how to
exploit software vulnerabilities.
- Concepts: Buffer overflows, shellcoding, reverse engineering.
- Languages: C/C++, Assembly.
- Resources:
- Books: "Hacking: The Art of Exploitation" by Jon Erickson.
- "The Shellcoder’s Handbook".
9. Get Certifications (Optional but Beneficial)
Once you’ve gained confidence, certifications can validate your skills to
employers.
- CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker): Good for foundational knowledge.
- OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional): The gold standard for
penetration testers.
- Other Certifications:
- GPEN (GIAC Penetration Tester).
- eLearnSecurity Junior Penetration Tester (eJPT).
10. Stay Updated
Cybersecurity is constantly evolving, so staying updated is essential.
- Follow Communities: Twitter, Reddit, and cybersecurity forums.
- Read Blogs: Follow well-known security researchers.
- Bug Bounty Programs: Sites like HackerOne and Bugcrowd allow you to
participate in real-world pen testing for rewards.
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Sample Learning Path:
1. Month 1-3: Learn Linux, networking basics, and security fundamentals.
2. Month 4-6: Start scripting (Python, Bash), set up labs (Hack The Box,
TryHackMe).
3. Month 7-9: Practice web app and network penetration testing.
4. Month 10-12: Dive deeper into exploit development, advanced tools, and
certifications.
Would you like more details on any of these steps or resources to get started?
