How to become a hacker? Step-by-step guide to do it right

The world of hacking has long been shrouded in mystery and misconceptions. Popular culture often portrays hackers as shadowy figures hiding behind a computer screen, wreaking havoc on computer systems for personal gain. But this depiction misses the mark on the nuances of what it can mean to be a hacker. Ethical hackers are the good guys who use their skills and curiosity to find and fix vulnerabilities before illegal hackers exploit them. 

If you've ever considered a career in cybersecurity or wondered, "How can I become a hacker?" then this guide is for you. It will cover the foundational skills you need to get started, the specialized domains where you can leave your mark and the certifications that tell employers you can hack with the best of them, as well as how to safely and effectively learn these skills. 

Understanding hacking basics 

To become a skilled, ethical hacker, you'll need to have a solid foundation in several key areas: programming languages, networking fundamentals and operating system proficiency. 

Programming languages form the backbone of any hacker's toolkit. Python, for instance, is popular for its simplicity, versatility and extensive libraries, making it a good choice for beginning and seasoned hackers alike. JavaScript, another top programming language, is indispensable for web-based applications and security assessments. SQL is another language hackers should know because it's crucial for understanding databases, which are common targets for attackers. 

Networking skills are equally important, as they enable hackers to understand how data moves across the internet, how protocols work and how networks are structured. This knowledge will help you comprehend how vulnerabilities can arise and leave open doors for malicious hackers. Operating systems, especially Linux and Windows, are the environments in which most software runs. Mastery of these systems allows you to manipulate them for legitimate purposes, such as testing for security flaws. 

But technical skills are only part of the equation. You must also have a strong ethical foundation. This means understanding the importance of respecting the privacy and security of others and being mindful of the potential consequences of your actions. 

Formal education vs self-learning 

There is no single "right" path to becoming an ethical hacker. Both formal education and self-learning offer unique advantages. 

A computer science degree will give you a strong theoretical foundation in computer systems, programming languages and security principles. This structured learning environment provides guidance from experienced instructors, exposure to diverse topics and the opportunity to network with classmates who share your passion for cybersecurity. A degree can also be a valuable credential for landing your first cybersecurity job. 

On the other hand, going the self-taught route is more flexible and can be tailored to your specific interests in technology and hacking. The internet is packed with information, with countless online resources, forums and communities dedicated to cybersecurity, including: 

• GitHub: This platform allows you to explore open-source hacking tools and projects, collaborate with other ethical hackers and even contribute your own code to the cybersecurity community. 

• Stack Overflow: This site is a gold mine for troubleshooting and solving technical problems you encounter during your hacking journey. 

• Reddit: Here, you can connect with other expiring and experienced ethical hackers, ask questions, share knowledge and stay up to date with the latest industry trends, especially in the r/cybersecurity, r/hacking and r/ethicalhacking subreddits. 

• TechExams: An Infosec forum that provides support for those pursuing technical certifications, with insights and resources on various cybersecurity topics, including penetration testing, a big part of ethical hacking. 

Just because there are two paths doesn't mean you can't take both. Many successful ethical hackers have combined both paths, complementing their formal education with self-directed learning to stay current with the latest trends and technologies. 

Gaining practical experience 

Theory is essential, but in the world of ethical hacking, hands-on experience is what sets you apart. This is where you get to put your newfound knowledge to the test, hone your critical thinking skills and develop a problem-solving approach that will be invaluable in real-world scenarios. 

Some great ways to gain practical experience are through labs, simulations and Capture The Flag (CTF) challenges. Labs and simulations offer a range of pre-configured environments that mimic real-world systems and networks where participants can practice various hacking techniques. CTF challenges, on the other hand, are often organized as competitions or events where participants must solve a series of puzzles or challenges related to cybersecurity. You can find an extensive, curated list of CTF challenges in this GitHub repository.  

Many online platforms provide top-notch resources for gaining practical experiences. Here are a few highly regarded options to get you started: 

• Infosec Skills: Infosec’s comprehensive online platform offers a wide range of hands-on labs, courses and challenges covering various cybersecurity domains, including ethical hacking courses and learning paths. 

• Hack The Box: A subscription-based platform known for its realistic and challenging hacking scenarios, perfect for those seeking to push their limits. 

• OverTheWire: This free platform offers war games (simulated hacking environments) that progressively increase in difficulty, guiding you from beginner to advanced ethical hacking concepts. 

Specializing in a domain 

There are many specializations in the world of ethical hacking. As you gain experience and refine your skills, you might find yourself drawn to a particular area of expertise. Here are some of the most popular ethical hacking domains: 

• Web application security: Specialists in this domain focus on identifying and patching vulnerabilities in websites and web applications, preventing data breaches and protecting user information. 

• Network security: Network security specialists defend our digital world by safeguarding network infrastructure, detecting intrusions and mitigating cyberattacks, 

• Malware analysis: Malware analysts dissect malware code to understand its functionality and develop methods to detect and neutralize these threats. 

• Cloud security: Professionals who specialize in cloud security focus on securing cloud applications and resources, identifying and addressing vulnerabilities and ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of data stored in the cloud. 

When choosing a domain to specialize in, consider factors such as your personal interests, industry demand and potential career opportunities. Do you enjoy the challenge of code-breaking and analyzing complex systems? You might like web application security. Are you fascinated by the intricate workings of networks and would like to try Wi-Fi hacking with wireless hacking tools? Then, network security might be a better fit. 

Earning ethical hacking certifications 

Even if you've sharpened your skills and gained practical experience in ethical hacking, earning ethical hacking certifications can take your career to the next level. These credentials can validate your skills and open doors to career opportunities in the cybersecurity field. Here are some essential certifications for aspiring ethical hackers: 

• CompTIA Security+: The Security+ certification provides a broad understanding of cybersecurity concepts and best practices. It's not focused on offensive security, but it establishes a strong knowledge base for further exploration and is the stepping stone to the Pentest+ certification. 

• CompTIA Pentest+: The CompTIA Pentest+ certification validates your ability to plan and scope assessments, identify vulnerabilities, exploit systems ethically and analyze results to recommend mitigation strategies. It's a natural step after Security+ on the CompTIA pathway. 

• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): This certification validates your skills in identifying vulnerabilities, exploiting systems ethically and securing networks. The CEH program covers a wide range of ethical hacking methods and tools. You can get ready for both the Pentest+ and Certified Ethical Hacker exam process in only five days with Infosec's Ethical Hacking Dual Certification Boot Camp. 

• Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP): This advanced certification from Offensive Security (or OffSec) is a favorite among employers seeking highly skilled penetration testers. OSCP emphasizes practical application through hands-on labs, requiring you to demonstrate your ability to exploit vulnerabilities and simulated, real-world scenarios in an exam that lasts 23 hours and 45 minutes. It is no wonder that OffSec’s credo and guiding principle is “Try Harder”! 

Building a professional network 

Networking with colleagues, mentors and students is key to professional growth in the cybersecurity community. It allows you to connect with industry experts, discuss the latest threats and developments and gain insights into best practices and emerging threats. Your network can also open doors to potential job opportunities, referrals and mentorship from experienced professionals. 

One effective way to start building your network is through social media platforms. LinkedIn, for example, is a powerful tool for connecting with other cybersecurity professionals, joining relevant groups and participating in discussions. TikTok is another valuable resource that allows you to follow influential figures, companies, and organizations in the cybersecurity space. 

Attending conferences and events is also a great way to expand your network and immerse yourself in the ethical hacking community. Events such as DEFCON and Black Hat are renowned for their talks, workshops and networking opportunities, bringing together professionals from around the world to share their knowledge and expertise. 

Joining professional organizations can also be a valuable networking asset. Organizations such as ISSA (Information Systems Security Association), ISC2 (International Information System Security Certification Consortium) and ISACA (Information Systems Audit and Control Association) offer local chapters, online communities and networking events tailored for cybersecurity professionals. 

Gaining real-world experience 

Once you've mastered the fundamentals, built your hacking skills, and even earned a certification or two, it's time to translate your knowledge into real-world experience. This could be your ticket to landing your dream ethical hacking job! Here are some strategies to bridge the gap between theory and practice: 

• Internships: An internship with a cybersecurity company provides invaluable hands-on experience working alongside seasoned professionals, tackling real-world security challenges and gaining a deeper understanding of the industry. 

• Open-source security projects: Contributing your skills to open-source projects, like those found on GitHub, allows you to collaborate with other security experts, test your abilities and build a portfolio showcasing your expertise. 

• Bug bounty programs: Participating in bug bounty programs allows you to practice your penetration testing skills, gain recognition from potential employers and potentially earn some cash while you learn. 

Once you've gained some experience in the real world, it's time to craft a compelling resume and portfolio to showcase your skills and accomplishments to potential employers. 

Tailor your resume to highlight the specific skills and certifications relevant to the ethical hacking positions you're targeting. Quantify your achievements whenever possible. For example, you can mention the number of vulnerabilities you identified during an internship or the specific bug bounty programs you participated in. 

With your portfolio, showcase your contributions to open-source projects, links to successful bug reports and write-ups detailing your ethical hacking projects. A well-crafted portfolio can make a strong impression on potential employers and set you apart from the competition. 

The cybersecurity job market is booming, but standing out requires preparation. Research companies with strong cybersecurity practices and identify roles that align with your interests and skill set. Once you get an interview, prepare well ahead of time. Cybersecurity interviews often involve technical questions and practical challenges. Brush up on your technical knowledge, practice common interview questions and be ready to showcase your problem-solving skills and passion for ethical hacking. 

Are you ready to become an ethical hacker? 

The digital world is looking for ethical hackers just like you, but to be in demand, you must remember that the threat landscape is a living entity. The skills you learn today may need to be adapted for tomorrow, so it's critical to continuously practice your skills and keep your knowledge up to date. Here's a breakdown of the roadmap we just provided: 

1. Build a strong foundation in programming languages, networking and operating systems. 
2. Decide whether you will choose formal education or a self-directed route to knowledge.
3. Sharpen your skills through labs, CTF challenges and simulators and as you progress, find a niche that interests you and become a true expert.
4. Get certified in ethical hacking to boost your credibility and stand out in the job market.
5. Don't forget to network so you can learn more cybersecurity skills and learn about new opportunities.
6. Gain real-world experience by seeking internships, contributing to open-source projects, and participating in bug bounty programs.
7. Document these experiences to flesh out your resume and portfolio. 

Throughout your journey, remember to use your skills responsibly and that it is never over. Continuous learning is a requirement to stay ahead of the latest threats and take advantage of new technologies. You can take your first step in this journey today by exploring Infosec's hacking and penetration testing resources.