Starting your journey in ethical hacking can be daunting, but with the right resources and approach, you can build a strong foundation. Here are some of the best resources and tips recommended by Redditors to help you get started:

Foundational Skills

Before diving into ethical hacking, it's crucial to build a solid understanding of fundamental concepts:

• Networking: "Learn networking first, read/watch Network+ or CCNA material."

• Linux: "learn linux, properly, and networking, that base will give you the skills to move towards your goal"

• Programming: "start with python then batch script then bash script go to linux 2 months go learn C and C++ on linux do alot of projects learn networking also understand it from then you will understand how to make hack tools"

• Computer Architecture: "You start with understanding networking and computer architecture."

Certifications

Certifications can provide structured learning and validate your skills:

• CompTIA Trifecta: "If you’re serious, start with the CompTIA Trifecta (A+, Network+ and Security+)."

• eJPT and OSCP: "If you're looking for a certification that would actually prepare you for ethical hacking and help you land a job I'd strongly recommend getting these two certs: eJPT and OSCP."

• CYSA: "Best certification to actually get in the 3 is net +, if you're serious avoid sec + and go take cysa."

Learning Platforms

These platforms offer structured courses, hands-on labs, and practical exercises:

• TryHackMe: "Tryhackme is a good way to start although it can be useful if you try the subscription as your learning would be more guided..."

• Hack The Box: "Hack the box, all day erry day"

• PortSwigger Web Security Academy: "The 3 platforms I covered: 1. PortSwigger Web Security Academy 2. TryHackMe 3. Hack The Box"

• Cisco NetAcad: "Cisco has a free EH course online"

• Overthewire.org: "Practice on Overthewire , Tryhackme , Hackthebox, Pico , Vulnhub , Portswigger & etc"

Tools and Simulators

Get hands-on experience with these tools and simulators:

• Anonymous Hacking Simulator: "Are you a gamer? Buy 'Anonymous hacking simulator' on STEAM."

• Kali Linux: "DO NOT use Kali Linux... start from the scratch , use Linux debain and start building your own tools on VM" – Note: Some redditors recommend avoiding Kali Linux initially to understand the underlying tools better.

General Advice

• Start with Basics: "See this subs pinned post... Research is one of the main skills for this area. Please don't be a r/masterhacker and start with the fundamentals of computing."

• Keep it Fun: "It can still be fun, just don't fall for the endless certification marathon the commercialization of hacking brought with it. Hacking is about curiosity, creativity and even rebellion."

AI Tools

For custom script development and advanced queries:

• Claude and Replit: "Claude is the best for generic questions and replit for creating tools."

Subreddits for Further Learning

• r/Hacking_Tutorials

• r/cybersecurity

• r/bugbounty

• r/hackthebox

• r/tryhackme

By following these recommendations and consistently practicing, you can build a strong foundation in ethical hacking and cybersecurity. Good luck on your journey!