If I had the chance to start my journey into the exciting world of ethical hacking all over again, I would approach it with a clear roadmap in mind. Hacking is a field that requires a deep understanding of computer systems, networks, and security, and it can be overwhelming when you’re just getting started. That’s why I want to share my ideal roadmap for learning hacking, including recommended sources and branching paths for different specialties.

The Foundation: Understanding the Basics

This first part of this guide will take you through the core concepts, providing a solid understanding of Programming, Networks, and Operating Systems — both Windows and Linux. These building blocks are the pillars upon which your expertise will rest, making them indispensable to your hacking journey.

Programming

• Learn the basics of programming.
• Gain the ability to write automation scripts.
• Build your own tools for cybersecurity and ethical hacking.

Programming is the foundation of hacking. It empowers you to create custom tools, automate repetitive tasks, and understand vulnerabilities in systems and applications. Algorithmic thinking helps you identify weaknesses and craft better defenses.

My own recommendation is Python due it’s simplicity, large community and extensive libraries. make it a powerful choice for security professionals, therefore is probably the best option for you, but you can choose any other Scripting language you can feel comfortable with.

Recommended source of learning:

• Codecademy python
• learnpython
• Black Hat Python, by Justin Seitz and Tim Arnold (Book, with focus on creating hacking tools)
• Cracking Codes with Python (Book, with focus on making and breaking ciphers)
• Ultimate Beginner’s Python Course

Networks

• Understand the fundamentals of networking protocols.
• Learn how to analyze network traffic and identify vulnerabilities.
• Grasp the concepts of TCP/IP, DNS, and routing.

A solid understanding of networks is crucial in cybersecurity. It allows you to comprehend the inner workings of the internet and communication between devices. Knowledge of networking protocols, such as TCP/IP, HTTP, DNS , and so on, helps you in identifying potential weaknesses and securing network infrastructure. Analyzing network traffic is essential for detecting anomalies and threats.

Recommended source of learning:

• Cisco Networking courses
• TCP/IP Illustrated Vol 1 (3 books series, Reading the first one is essential to read the others)
• Computer Networking Course — Network Engineering

OS — Windows

• Master Windows operating system fundamentals.
• Harness the power of PowerShell for scripting and automation.
• Utilize Sysinternals tools for in-depth system analysis and troubleshooting.

Windows is a widely used operating system, and understanding its internals is vital for hackers and cybersecurity professionals. Mastering Windows basics will enable you to identify and exploit vulnerabilities effectively. PowerShell is a versatile scripting language that can automate tasks and assist in security testing. Sysinternals tools provide deep insights into Windows systems, helping you identify malware, rootkits, and system misconfigurations.

Recommended source of learning:

• Under The Wire (Powershell)
• Sysinternals Learning Resources
• Windows 10 For Dummies, by Andy Rathbone

The Specializations: Exploring Advanced Topics.

With a solid foundation, you’re now ready to explore specialized paths. In this section, I will introduce four key paths: Cryptography, Reverse Engineering, Web Security, and Forensics.

These paths represent just a glimpse of the rich tapestry of opportunities in the field. The beauty of hacking is that you’re not limited to just one path. you can learn and excel in multiple areas. Let’s dive into these focal paths while remembering that the cybersecurity landscape offers a world of exploration beyond these four.

Cryptography

• Understand the principles of encryption and decryption.
• Explore common cryptographic algorithms and techniques.
• Learn how cryptography is applied in securing data and communication.

Cryptography is the art of securing information through encryption, and it plays a critical role in cybersecurity. Understanding cryptography allows you to protect data from prying eyes and ensures the confidentiality and integrity of digital communication. This knowledge is essential for designing secure systems, identifying vulnerabilities, and mitigating threats.

Recommended source of learning:

• Cryptography Full Course part 1, part 2
• Serious Cryptography
• Cracking Codes with Python

Web Security

• Grasp the fundamentals of web technologies and protocols.
• Identify and understand common web vulnerabilities (e.g., XSS, CSRF).
• Learn how to secure web applications against cyber threats.

Web security is crucial as most businesses and services are now online. Understanding web vulnerabilities and how to protect against them is vital for preventing data breaches, unauthorized access, and other cyber-attacks. Proficiency in web security allows you to ensure the safety of web applications and user data.

Recommended source of learning:

• OWASP
• Web Security Academy
• The Web Application Hacker’s Handbook
• Tangled Web

Forensics

• Understand the principles of digital forensics.
• Learn how to collect, preserve, and analyze digital evidence.
• Explore tools and techniques for investigating cybercrimes and security incidents.

Digital forensics is essential for investigating cybercrimes, data breaches, and security incidents. It involves the collection and analysis of digital evidence, which is critical for identifying perpetrators and understanding the scope of the breach. Proficiency in digital forensics is valuable for both preventing and responding to security breaches.

Recommended source of learning:

• Digital Forensics for Dummies
• Practical Forensic Imaging
• Practical Linux Forensics
• malware-traffic-analysis
• Digital Forensic Investigation

Reverse Engineering

• Dive into assembly language to understand low-level programming.
• Learn how to dissect and analyze software, including malware.
• Explore techniques for understanding and potentially modifying software.

Reverse engineering is a vital skill in cybersecurity, allowing you to dissect and analyze software, including malware, to understand its functionality and vulnerabilities. Proficiency in RE is essential for identifying and mitigating security threats, as well as for discovering and fixing vulnerabilities in software.

Recommended source of learning:

• Hacking: The Art of Exploitation
• beginners.re
• OpenSecurityTraining2 (Assembly)
• Modern Binary Exploitation by RPISEC
• LiveOverFlow Binary Exploitation

Conclusion: Navigating Your Path in

As I wrap up this guide to ethical hacking and cybersecurity, let’s keep a few important ideas in mind:

Infinite Resources: The internet is a treasure trove of information on these subjects. While I’ve offered some suggestions, remember that the digital realm is overflowing with resources. Choose what resonates with you and suits your style. Your journey, your rules.

Endless Exploration: Just like there’s a world of resources, there’s an entire universe of topics to dive into. You’re not limited to just one specialization. Feel free to explore different areas. Try things out, experiment, and find your passion. The field is incredibly diverse, and that’s the beauty of it.

Practice, Practice, Practice: Book knowledge is fantastic, but real-world experience is priceless. Get your hands dirty with practical exercises, tackle Capture The Flag (CTF) challenges, and handle real-life scenarios. The wisdom you gain through hands-on work is irreplaceable. It’s not just about what you know, it’s about what you can do with it.

Your journey into hacking is an adventure. It’s about curiosity, learning, and continuous growth. Embrace the opportunities, stay curious, and, most importantly, take action. The world of cybersecurity is ever-changing, and your active involvement will not only boost your skills but also contribute to making the digital world safer