Learning ethical hacking can be a daunting task, but there are numerous free and paid resources available to help you get started. Here are some of the best resources recommended by Redditors:

Online Platforms and Courses

• TryHackMe: Great for beginners with structured learning paths and hands-on labs. "TryHackMe has a nice free path that makes it easy to grasp fundamentals of cybersecurity so check it out"

• Hack The Box: Offers a variety of challenges and labs, including beginner-friendly options. "Hack the box, all day erry day"

• PortSwigger Web Security Academy: Focuses on web hacking with detailed labs and tutorials. "PortSwigger Web Security Academy"

• Cisco Networking Academy: Provides free courses on networking and cybersecurity. "Cisco has a free EH course online"

Books and Blogs

• "Hacking: The Art of Exploitation": A classic guide to hacking concepts. "Hacking: The Art of Exploitation"

• "Linux Basics for Hackers": Essential for understanding Linux in a hacking context. "Linux Basics for Hackers"

• "Ghost in the Wires" by Kevin Mitnick: A thrilling memoir that covers social engineering and early hacking. "Ghost in the Wires by Kevin Mitnick"

YouTube Channels

• David Bombal: Offers a variety of cybersecurity tutorials. "David Bombal and Talking Sasquatch are my two fav's right now"

• Network Chuck: Provides educational content on networking and Linux. "Absolutely! I would add Network Chuck to the mix, too"

• John Hammond: Features practical hacking demonstrations and explanations. "Gotta mention Mr Hammond here"

Essential Tools

• Nmap: For network mapping and reconnaissance. "Nmap for mapping out networks"

• Metasploit: For testing vulnerabilities and exploitation. "Metasploit for testing vulnerabilities"

• Burp Suite: For web application security testing. "only tools you need for web hacking is burpsuite"

Fundamentals to Learn First

• Networking: Understand the basics of how networks work. "Learn networking first, read/watch Network+ or CCNA material"

• Linux: Get comfortable with Linux commands and scripting. "learn linux, properly, and networking"

• Programming: Learn a language like Python or C for scripting and exploitation. "basic python or any language programs"

Practice and Labs

• TryHackMe: Offers free and paid labs for various topics. "TryHackMe has a nice free path that makes it easy to grasp fundamentals of cybersecurity so check it out"

• Hack The Box: Provides realistic hacking challenges. "Hack the box, all day erry day"

• OverTheWire: Offers a series of war games to learn Linux and security concepts. "If you are just barely starting out, I would look at the wargames at https://overthewire.org"

Certifications

• CompTIA Security+: A good starting point for cybersecurity certifications. "If you’re serious, start with the CompTIA Trifecta (A+, Network+ and Security+)"

• EC-Council CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker): Provides a comprehensive guide to ethical hacking. "training paths and certifications from organizations like EC-Council can also provide a guided introduction to ethical hacking"

Additional Tips

• Join Communities: Engage with other learners and professionals on forums and subreddits. "See this subs pinned post"

• Practice Regularly: Consistency is key to mastering ethical hacking. "The key is not just reading or watching videos, but actually trying things yourself in labs gradually figuring out how system breaks"

• Stay Updated: The field of cybersecurity is constantly evolving, so keep learning and adapting. "I personally have used Hack the Box and it has helped me a lot plus reading and learning from others experiences and being up-to-date with the latest trends and tools used in Ethical hacking"

By utilizing these resources and following a structured learning path, you can build a strong foundation in ethical hacking and cybersecurity. Good luck on your journey!

Ethical Hacking Communities

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