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

Foundational Skills

Before diving into ethical hacking, it's crucial to master some fundamental skills:

• 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: "I would recommend a Python or JavaScript course, of which there are a ton online."

Learning Platforms

These platforms offer structured courses, labs, and challenges to help you practice ethical hacking in a safe environment:

• TryHackMe: "Start at TryHackMe and progress from there bro. THM has labs, walkthrough rooms and much more"

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

• PortSwigger Academy: "Port swigger is the best!"

Courses and Certifications

For structured learning and certifications, consider these options:

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

• TCM Academy: "TCM academy. Worth every penny. They also have certs."

• RedFox Academy: "Yes, I have taken 2 courses so far, and started with the 3rd one. To be honest, I think in terms of theory, there are lots of resources available for free as well but the practical learning in the courses and the support is hands-down the best so far."

• Boston Institute of Analytics (BIA): "I ended up choosing boston institute of analytics. Their ethical hacking + cybersecurity diploma was more balanced imo"

Methodologies and Guides

Understanding the methodologies used in ethical hacking is crucial:

• OWASP: "You can look at how threat actors operate using Mitre Att&ck, but it won't mean much to you... Learn about the different phases of a pentest (recon, initial access, etc.) and if you can test things on virtual machines."

• MITRE ATT&CK: "You can look at how threat actors operate using Mitre Att&ck"

• Pentesting Workflow: "Repeatable workflow: recon -> map -> test -> PoC -> report."

Books and Additional Resources

For in-depth learning, consider these books and additional resources:

• "The basics of hacking and penetration testing" by Patrick Engebretson: "A great and easy-read book i recommend is 'The basics of hacking and penetration testing' by Patrick Engebretson."

• "Kali Linux 2018: Assuring Security by Penetration Testing Fourth Edition": "Another one that is a bit longer and more in-depth is 'Kali Linux 2018: Assuring Security by Penetration Testing Fourth Edition'"

Subreddits for Further Learning

To connect with a community and get additional help, consider these subreddits:

• r/Hacking_Tutorials

• r/ethicalhacking

• r/cybersecurity

• r/learnprogramming

By combining these resources and following a structured learning path, you can effectively start your journey in ethical hacking and cybersecurity. Good luck!