Ethical Hacking Learning Path — A Complete Roadmap

1. Fundamentals:

• Computer Networks: Understand basic network protocols, OSI model, sub-netting, and VPN.
• Computer Skills: Familiarity with basic computer operations, file systems, and structures.
• Operating Systems: Knowledge of Windows, Linux, and macOS. Focus more on Linux — commands, file system, permissions, and scripting.

2. Basic Security Techniques:

• Cryptography: Understand encryption & decryption, public key infrastructure, SSL, and hashing algorithms.
• Basic Malware Analysis: Learn about different types of malware and their behavior.
• Basics of Cyber Laws: Familiarize yourself with prevailing cyber laws in your region.

3. Setting up Lab:

Before delving into hacking, set up a controlled environment to practice:

• Virtualization: Learn to use platforms like VMware or VirtualBox.
• Install Vulnerable Systems: Metasploitable, DVWA (Damn Vulnerable Web Application), WebGoat, etc.

4. Learning about Tools:

• Nmap & Zenmap: For port scanning and network mapping.
• Wireshark: For network traffic analysis.
• Metasploit: For vulnerability discovery and exploit.
• John the Ripper & Hydra: For password cracking.
• Burp Suite & OWASP ZAP: For web application vulnerability assessment.

5. Developing Specialization:

• Web Application Security: SQL injection, XSS, CSRF, session management issues, and more.
• Network Security: Man-in-the-middle attacks, ARP spoofing, DoS/DDoS, etc.
• Wireless Security: Cracking WEP/WPA/WPA2, rogue access points, evil twin attacks.
• Malware Analysis & Reverse Engineering: Analyzing malicious software behavior, code, and intent.
• Cloud Security: Vulnerabilities in cloud infrastructure, misconfigured S3 buckets, etc.

6. Advanced Topics:

• IoT Security: Learn about vulnerabilities in connected devices.
• Mobile Security: Focus on Android & iOS vulnerabilities, mobile malware.
• Forensics: Digital forensics tools and techniques for evidence recovery.
• Incident Response: How to manage, mitigate, and recover from security incidents.

7. Hands-on Experience:

• Capture The Flag (CTF) Challenges: Sites like Hack The Box, CTFTime, and TryHackMe.
• Bug Bounty Programs: Platforms like HackerOne, Bugcrowd, and Open Bug Bounty.

8. Certifications:

• CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)
• OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional)
• CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)
• CompTIA Security+

9. Continuous Learning:

Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field. Stay updated with:

• Blogs & News: Websites like KrebsOnSecurity, The Hacker News, and Dark Reading.
• Forums & Communities: Join platforms like Stack Exchange’s Information Security, Reddit’s r/netsec.
• Conferences: Attend DEF CON, Black Hat, and local security meet-ups.

10. Soft Skills:

• Ethics: Always follow the ethical guidelines. Unauthorized hacking is illegal.
• Problem-Solving: Think like an attacker to find vulnerabilities.
• Communication: Ability to clearly convey findings and recommendations.

Remember, becoming proficient in ethical hacking requires persistence, hands-on experience, and continuous learning. Start with the basics, build strong foundational knowledge, and progress to more advanced topics over time.