Learning Path to Ethical Hacking

Aug 21, 2024

Journey to Becoming a Hacker - Video 1 Notes

Introduction

  • Documenting the journey from beginner to hacker.
  • Focus on learning hacking through the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification.
  • Sponsored by ITProTV, using their CEH version 10 training.

Objectives of the Series

  • Determine if CEH certification will help become a hacker or get a job.
  • Share study processes, tools, and experiences while learning.
  • Focus on practical hacking knowledge, avoiding boring material.

Understanding Hacking

What is Hacking?

  • Common misconceptions about hackers.
  • Hackers are not just criminals; they can be ethical.

Types of Hackers

  • Black Hat Hackers: Malicious hackers breaking laws without permission.
  • White Hat Hackers (Ethical Hackers): Hackers who operate with permission to find vulnerabilities.
  • Gray Hat Hackers: Hackers who may operate without permission but without malicious intent.
  • Script Kiddies: Users who employ hacking tools without understanding how they work.
  • Hacktivists: Hackers motivated by political or social causes.
  • State Sponsored Hackers: Hackers working for governments to spy or disrupt.

Moral of the Story

  • Aim to be a white hat hacker for a fulfilling and legal career.

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Overview

  • CEH is an in-demand certification offered by the EC Council.
  • Compliance with DOD standards (85, 70, 81, 24) for government cybersecurity roles.

Requirements

  • Minimum of 2 years of IT security experience OR completion of a CEH training course.
  • Application process includes a non-refundable fee of $100 to verify IT security experience.
  • Exam costs:
    • $1,199 through Pearson VUE.
    • $950 through EC Council.

CEH Exam Structure

  • Two types: CEH (theory-focused) and CEH Practical (hands-on skills).
  • CEH version 10 focuses on 20 modules covering various hacking techniques and security measures.

Preparing for the CEH

Study Tools and Approach

  • Video Course: ITProTV's CEH version 10 training.
  • Book: "CEH Certified Ethical Hacker All-in-One Exam Guide 4th Edition" or O'Reilly subscriptions.
  • Labs: ITProTV offers virtual labs for hands-on practice.
  • Practice Exams: Kaplan practice exams available through ITProTV.

Study Plan

  • Duration: 12-15 weeks, targeting two modules per week.
  • Utilize a combination of videos, reading, hands-on labs, and practice exams.

Career Opportunities

  • Search for CEH-related jobs on job platforms (e.g., Indeed).
  • Example job roles include:
    • Information Security Specialist
    • Associate Cybersecurity DevSecOps Engineer
  • Many jobs value hacking knowledge for securing systems rather than performing hacks.

Conclusion

  • Encouragement to join the journey of learning hacking.
  • Subscription link to ITProTV for discounts on training.

Remember to stay ethical and focus on building your knowledge in a legal and productive manner!

Full transcript