Hacking: A Beginner's Guide to Getting Started

Introduction

• Hacking requires persistence and a strong foundation, not shortcuts or flashy tools.
• The lecturer shares personal experiences, mistakes, and useful resources.

1. Networking

• Starting Point: Understanding networking is crucial.
• Resources:
  • YouTube: Network Chuck's beginner-friendly videos.
  • Cisco Packet Tracer: Simulate small networks to grasp data flow.
  • TryHackMe: Offers hands-on networking modules.
• Wireshark:
  • A tool for capturing and analyzing network traffic.
  • Recommended YouTube tutorials by Chris Greer.

2. Learning Linux

• Importance: Essential for hacking, but can feel intimidating.
• Recommended OS: Start with Ubuntu, then move to Kali Linux.
• Learning Resources:
  • Spend time in the terminal learning commands (e.g., ls, cd, chmod).
  • Over the Wire Bandit: CTF game to learn Linux commands.

3. Exploring Hacking Tools

• Nmap:
  • First tool to learn; helps reveal open ports and services on networks.
  • Excellent documentation available for reference.
• Burp Suite:
  • Understands web applications and their vulnerabilities.

4. Programming Basics

• Why Learn Programming?: Essential for automation and understanding processes.
• Recommended Language: Python (beginner-friendly and widely used).
  • Getting Started: Build scripts for nmap scans, data parsing, and API interactions.
  • Resources: Codecademy, FreeCodeCamp for Python basics.
• Bash Scripting: Important for automating tasks on Linux.

5. Building a Practice Lab

• Virtualization: Use VirtualBox to set up a lab with virtual machines (e.g., Metasploitable).
• Practice Platforms:
  • Hack the Box: For advanced practice.
  • TryHackMe: Great for beginners with guided exercises.

6. Overcoming Challenges

• Common Struggles: Encountering error messages and feeling stuck is normal.
• Community Support: Engage in forums (e.g., Reddit /r/netsec, Discord servers) for guidance.

7. Hacking Mindset

• Curiosity: Always ask what could go wrong with systems.
• Ethical Considerations: Focus on positive learning, respect boundaries.

Conclusion

• Cyberflow's Academy: A platform with structured lessons and community support.
  • Focuses on networking, Linux commands, and advanced tools.
  • Provides forums for interaction with fellow learners.
• Final Note: Learning to hack should be an enjoyable process; Cyberflow's Academy aims to streamline your learning journey.