Unlocking the Secrets to a Successful Cybersecurity Career: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

If you’re excited by cybersecurity, hacking, bug bounty, or penetration testing, and want to get into it full-time, this guide is for you. Focus on how to make yourself more valuable in cybersecurity by hacking and coding, not through certifications or degrees.

Get Savvy with Linux and Bash Scripting

Linux is one of the most popular operating systems for servers and is widely used in the cybersecurity field. Bash scripting is a powerful tool for automating tasks and is a common skill among cybersecurity professionals.

Learn to Code

Rust, Go, and Python are all popular programming languages in the cybersecurity field. Start with any of these languages and build practice tools or even hacking tools to learn.

Hacking Labs

Learn by hacking labs that purposefully have vulnerabilities to exploit. Start with the easiest ones with a vulnerability class that interests you:

Hack Bug Bounty Programs

Bug bounty programs are a way for companies and organizations to reward individuals for finding and reporting security vulnerabilities in their systems.

This is a great way to gain experience hacking real targets “in the wild” and get recognition for your skills. You can also make significant money depending on what you find. Be sure to read the rules of the program and follow them.

Read Cybersecurity Blogs and Watch YouTube Videos

There is a wealth of information available online about cybersecurity, from blogs, tutorials, and YouTube videos. Read everything you can and test the techniques yourself on labs or bug bounty targets.

Figure Out What’s Fun for You

Different people learn in different ways, and it’s important to find what works best for you. Some people prefer hands-on learning, while others prefer to read and watch videos. Identifying your learning style will help you make the most of your time and resources.

Personally, I learn best on real targets because there are stakes involved to make it more exciting. This is why I started with bug bounty.

Find a Mentor

Connecting with someone in the industry that’s willing to help you can be a game changer. They can give you valuable real-world insight and introduce you to other pros in the field.

Remember, when reaching out to a mentor, always be respectful of their time and show them appreciation for their help.

Cybersecurity Conferences - Defcon, BSides

Going to conferences like Defcon and BSides is a great way to meet other hackers and learn about the latest techniques. The energy at these events is also extremely infectious and will get you hyped about hacking.

https://defcon.org/

Twitter and LinkedIn

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the world of cybersecurity and connect with other like-minded individuals, following hackers on social media, participating in online forums and discussions, and sharing your own knowledge and experiences are great ways to do it.

Not only will you learn from others, but you’ll also have the opportunity to contribute and make valuable connections.

Some good accounts to follow:

https://twitter.com/Jhaddix/

https://twitter.com/brutelogic

https://twitter.com/AdamJSturge

Also follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TakSec

Join Discord Communities

Hang out in hacker Discord servers to connect with like-minded individuals and swap tips and tricks.

Pivot from Other Roles

Pivoting into a career in cybersecurity from other roles can be a great way to break into the field. If you tell your management that you’re passionate about cybersecurity, you may be able to pivot internally. Take on security-related side projects every chance you get to prove yourself.

Some easy roles to pivot from:

1. Developer
2. IT support
3. DevOps
4. Other technical roles where cybersecurity is important

Apply for Jobs

The best way to land a new role is through people you’ve met so far. Referrals can be powerful and if you can find out about a role before it opens officially, it can give you an edge.

If you’re not having any luck with someone you know personally, you can still apply like everyone else online.

Use your bug bounty accomplishments, any tools you’ve built, and blog posts you’ve written as proof of your abilities. When I’m hiring, I care much more about real projects than degrees or certifications.

I personally like LinkedIn because most places will post there, and they make it easy to apply. If you add Burp Suite or other tools to your search, it’s more likely to match your niche skillset.

https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/search/?keywords=burp%20suite

Getting into cybersecurity in 2023 requires a combination of hands-on training, professional development, and community engagement. If cybersecurity excites you, you already have what you need to start.

Hack the Planet!